Worldwide Flight Services Expands JFK Operations

Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), a SATS company, will advance air cargo handling innovation and sustainability at New York’s John F.

JFK celebrates opening its first new cargo terminal in 30 years, marking a milestone in airport development and cargo handling.

WFS expands its JFK warehouse footprint to over 1 million square feet, solidifying its role as the largest cargo handler.

WFS currently serves 38 international and domestic airline customers at JFK.

Mike Simpson, Chief Executive Officer, Gateway Services, Americas at WFS, said: “WFS is proud of its 41 years of service to our customers at New York JFK. Building 260 marks a new era for WFS and air cargo at one of the main gateways to the United States. This cutting-edge facility reflects our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and operational excellence in our drive to serve customers better. Building 260 sets new standards for efficiency and safety and is a showpiece not just for JFK’s aviation ecosystem, but to the air cargo industry worldwide. The facility embodies our dedication to connecting the world through logistics and embraces new levels of digitalization and sustainability that will act as a model for other new cargo operations around the world.”

He added: “We thank our partners at Realterm for their collaboration in bringing this project to life and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for their support in making it a reality, as well as all the members of our own team who have been so committed to this project.”

Building Protocols

Building 260, with 350,000 sq. ft., advances WFS and JFK air cargo with technology, sustainability, and strong safety protocols.

The opening of the facility increases WFS’ cargo capacity at New York JFK by a further 25% and establishes the first-ever dedicated on-airport handling facility for temperature-controlled pharmaceutical products and perishable cargo. Over 3,000 sq. ft of cooler space enables the handling of perishable and pharmaceutical goods requiring variable temperature ranges of between 2-8°C or 15-25°C.

Adjacent to the new WFS cargo terminal is a ramp area that can accommodate up to three Boeing 747-400/777 or similar-sized wide body freighters and has already received its first arrival with Atlas Air.

Safety has been a prime consideration in the design of the facility and safety features include dock and polymer barriers to prevent accidental trailer movement, ensuring safe loading and unloading, as well as impact-resistant doors and column protection systems to minimize damage from forklifts and moving equipment, thus reducing downtime.

Building 260 features a new Dock Management System, enhancing efficiency and predictability for cargo pickups and drop-offs.

This is expected to reduce truck dwell times by as much as 25% by generating pre-alerts to reduce air waybill processing time.

The Slot Booking System improves customer experience by managing traffic flow and scheduling truck appointments based on shipment details.

Building 260

Building 260 uses advanced tech like WPM, Auto Dimensioning, and DG Autocheck for real-time visibility, compliance, and safety.

The Automated ETV and ULD Management systems track flights and automate cargo staging, streamlining operations by reducing forklift usage for ULDs.

Read: WFS Acquires Menzies Cargo at Amsterdam Schiphol

Collectively, these technologies will help to optimize WFS’ labor resources and productivity, ultimately reducing congestion and lowering wait times for cargo shipments.

Building 260’s convenient location next to major New York highways enhances operational efficiency by providing seamless road transportation connectivity.

Access to these highways make Building 260 highly accessible, ensuring efficient transportation for cargo operations, as well as WFS staff and contractors who work at the facility.

Worldwide Flight Services Sustainability Solutions

Sustainability solutions built into the new facility all support SATS’ environmental, social and governance (ESG) group priorities from electric forklift trucks to EV charging stations for both ground support equipment and customer/employee vehicles. The centralized ETV system for automated ULD dispatch to the ramp and warehouse also streamlines operations and reduces equipment usage.

Frank Clemente, SVP Cargo, Americas at WFS, stated, “We designed Building 260 to deliver exceptional service and set new industry benchmarks. This milestone achievement positions us to confidently and excellently meet future global logistics demands.”