AFKLMP Cargo's Chicago Warehouse Undergoes a Transformation, Providing Enhanced Capabilities to Benefit the Group’s Customers

On June 28th, Air France-KLM Martinair Cargo (AFKLMP) unveiled its newly configured, renovated warehouse based at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD).

To mark the occasion, let’s take a closer look at this new facility and how it plays into the Group’s larger strategy.

What’s new at the O’Hare airport warehouse?

This €5 million investment – initiated two years ago – brought three major changes to the site’s infrastructure and resources.

First, AFKLMP Cargo increased the warehouse’s capacity by 40%. This means more storage space, fluidity, and efficiency for customers. The expansion also includes 60% more plugs for ACTS containers, which makes possible to handle larger volumes of specialized cargo, including from other airlines.

Secondly, the company updated its operational and safety systems to ensure total compliance and maximum reliability.

And lastly, as part of its commitment to sustainability, AFKLMP Cargo also integrated energy-efficient solutions such as LED lighting and electric forklifts. This comes on top of other sustainability measures already underway, such as incorporating sustainable aviation fuel and renewing the fleet with more efficient aircraft.

Renovating to support our overall strategy

AFKLMP Cargo is Air France-KLM’s second largest activity. Its core mission is to be an engine of connectivity.

O’Hare was already AFKLMP Cargo’s third largest cargo hub after Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam-Schiphol. On top of that, it is the largest international cargo airport in North America and the most connected cargo airport in the world. In that regard, expanding the Group’s footprint at O’Hare was a natural strategic choice.

Furthermore, there has been a significant increase in cargo volumes since November 2020 – in areas like pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and e-commerce. Our warehouse at O’Hare has a very positive growth outlook and is key to capturing more market share. Thanks to our comprehensive trucking network, we are able to expand on footprint in the region, offering seamless transportation from ORD to 15 destinations in the U.S.

In the end, it’s all about providing the most robust, efficient, and reliable service possible to our customers trusting us with their cargo needs.