European Cargo to establish cargo base at Teesside Airport

Cargo flights to China are set to begin from Teesside International Airport after a landmark agreement secured a major new long-haul freight link, delivering a significant boost to regional trade and international connectivity.

UK-based global air freight carrier European Cargo has confirmed it will establish a new operational base at Teesside Airport Business Park in a multi-million-pound investment designed to strengthen the airport’s role as a key logistics gateway for the North of England.

The deal will see the launch of five weekly cargo flights to China from later this month, providing capacity to move up to 375 tonnes of freight each week. The new route is expected to offer faster and more direct export opportunities for manufacturers and businesses across the region.

The Teesside base will be served by European Cargo’s fleet of Airbus A340-600 long-haul freighters, each capable of carrying up to 76 metric tonnes of cargo. The aircraft will operate direct services to a major strategic trade hub in China, enhancing links between the North East and global markets.

Phil Forster, Managing Director of Teesside International Airport, described the agreement as “transformational” for the airport and a major milestone in its ambition to become a leading UK centre for aviation and logistics.

He said securing a dedicated freight base and direct links to China significantly strengthens the airport’s commercial offering and demonstrates the confidence global operators have in its long-term vision. He added that the impact would be substantial, not only in increasing cargo volumes and revenue, but in positioning Teesside as a strategic location for aviation, freight and future inward investment.

Iain Edwards, Chief Operating Officer at European Cargo, said the new base marks a significant step in the airline’s mission to connect UK businesses with global markets. He said the five weekly flights would provide much-needed capacity and a more reliable export route for manufacturers throughout the North of England.

Edwards added that the company’s investment reflects strong confidence in the region’s infrastructure and its potential as a premier logistics gateway, while also supporting local job creation and delivering a meaningful boost to the regional economy.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said the announcement represents a major vote of confidence in both the airport and the wider local economy. He said expanding commercial operations is central to long-term plans to ensure the airport’s financial sustainability while creating high-quality, well-paid jobs for local people.

The new freight operation builds on a series of significant private sector investments at Teesside over the past year. These include Willis Aviation Services Limited’s £13.5 million maintenance, repair and overhaul facility, new aircraft painting facilities operated by Airbourne Colours, and the construction of a £7 million hangar by aerospace firm Draken.

Together, the developments underline Teesside International Airport’s growing position as an emerging hub for aviation, logistics and global trade in the North of England.