MKE to develop new air cargo facility as an alternative to congested gateways

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is planning to develop a new air cargo facility as it aims to develop as an alternative to congested gateways.

The South Cargo Logistics Hub project will be handled by real estate firm CBRE and developed by investment companyCrow holdings on behalf of MKE.

The proposed on-tarmac project consists of a 288,000 sqft building with 74 docks and 99 trailer stalls and could be opened in the second half of 2024.

“The proposed project will serve as a legitimate option for cargo tenants looking to avoid the much higher congestion and costs associated with centreing operations out of Chicago O’Hare,” CBRE said.

The developers said that users would also benefit from uncongested airspace, the ability to handle large aircraft, the potential to adapt warehouse and office space to tenant’s needs and connection to downtown Milwaukee, Chicago, Minneapolis, Detroit, and beyond.

CBRE’s David Prell said: “This rare opportunity to occupy a Class-A, on-airfield product at a major airport will stand out to a great deal of potential tenants.

“Being able to meet the needs of modern users will put a new spotlight on the Airport and the strategic advantages it presents.”

As a result of the Covid pandemic, companies have been looking to utilise secondary airports in order to avoid congestion at major US hubs.

Forwarder DB Schenker recently said this is one reason it would continue with its charter operation.

Meanwhile, Kuehne+Nagel announced that its air cargo operation would call at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport in Alabama to avoid the congestion that can build up at larger airports.