The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ), global transportation investment manager Realterm and air cargo logistics provider Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) recently celebrated the opening of a new, state-of-the-art consolidated cargo handling center at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The $270-million, 350,000-square foot facility operated by WFS is the first new cargo facility at JFK in 25 years and will consolidate the airport’s four cargo zones into one streamlined location. The new facility includes an advanced truck dock management system designed to improve the flow of goods and enhance digital communication between drivers and dock operators; 3,000-square foot of cooler space designed for temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals and perishables; as well as sustainability measures such as electric forklifts, electric vehicle chargers and an automated unit load device system.
JFK, which handled 1.67 million tons of cargo in 2024 and generates $11.4 billion in economic activity annually, is the eighth-busiest cargo airport in the U.S. and 21st globally. The project exceeded its minority and women-owned business enterprises (MWBEs) participation goals with 42% of contracts awarded to MWBEs and is expected to generate 100 permanent new jobs. Airport leaders stated that there would be a priority in hiring members from the airport’s surrounding communities through targeted local hiring events and outreach in partnership with the Council for Airport Opportunity and other development organizations.
“We are in the midst of historic overhauls across all of our airports, and this new cargo center is yet more proof of the transformation that is underway,” said Kevin O’Toole, Port Authority chairman. “This new consolidated cargo center reduces truck congestion, lowers emissions and creates good-paying jobs, all while supporting the industries that power the region and the nation.”
“By replacing outdated facilities with a modern cargo center, we’re preparing for the future and improving efficiency and sustainability at JFK,” added Rick Cotton, Port Authority executive director. “JFK plays a central role in global commerce, and this modern consolidated cargo center strengthens its position as a key gateway for high-value goods and international trade.”
“We are thrilled to see this project come to life as a showpiece for cargo operations not just at JFK, but for airports worldwide,” said David Rose, managing director of Realterm. “This modern and one-of-a-kind facility exemplifies what can be achieved through strong public-private partnerships and demonstrates Realterm’s commitment to creating infrastructure that meets the evolving needs of the air cargo industry while supporting local economic development.”
“WFS is proud of its 41 years of service to our customers at JFK,” said Mike Simpson, Gateway Services CEO for the Americas at WFS. “This new facility 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. This new development 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.”
