Korean Air Selects Lödige Industries To Modernize JFK Cargo Terminal

Korean Air is planning a major modernization of its cargo terminal at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, aimed at enhancing service quality, operational efficiency, and sustainability across its US East Coast operations. The airline has selected Lödige Industries to deliver the project.

Originally opened in December 2000, the JFK cargo terminal is one of the largest facilities of its kind in the eastern United States, with a total warehouse floor area of 17,065 square meters and an annual handling capacity of 200,000 tons.

The modernization will introduce a range of advanced automated systems designed to boost productivity and improve workplace safety. A key element of the upgrade is the installation of two fully automated elevating transfer vehicles (ETVs) to enable higher-capacity and more efficient ULD handling. Existing fixed transfer vehicles will be removed and replaced with cargo pallet movers to provide greater flexibility and improve space utilization. In addition, 14 workstations will be replaced with modernized units.

Enhancements to the terminal’s cool chain infrastructure form another major component of the project. Plans include construction of a new refrigerated warehouse, along with extensive upgrades to existing temperature-controlled areas. Across four current temperature-controlled zones, systems such as temperature controllers, roller conveyors, and shutters will be renewed to improve reliability and operational efficiency.

“JFK is our gateway for cargo services along the East Coast and a key hub in our growing global network,” said Junho Choi, regional manager of the Cargo Office in New York, Washington, and Boston at Korean Air Cargo. “By modernizing the terminal with state-of-the-art automation technology, we are ensuring long-term efficiency, higher safety standards, and increased sustainability of our operations.”

Jonathan Hardy, managing director for North America at Lödige Industries, said the upgraded facility will support Korean Air Cargo’s long-term service goals at JFK. “With the modernized terminal, all requirements are met to satisfy the highest customer demands for years to come, while further strengthening the airline’s position in an increasingly important global cargo market.”