European Cargo establishes Teesside base to launch China air freight links

British based cargo airline European Cargo is establishing a new operational base at Teesside International Airport, creating new long-haul air freight connections to China and expanding export capacity for manufacturers in northern England.

image: European Cargo

The agreement will see European Cargo invest several million pounds in facilities at the airport’s business park while launching five weekly freighter flights to China. The new service is expected to begin this month and provide up to 375t of freight capacity per week.

The route will be operated using Airbus A340-600 converted freighters, each capable of carrying up to 76 tonnes of cargo. The aircraft will be positioned at the Teesside base to support regular long-haul operations linking the North of England with Asian supply chains and reducing reliance on southern UK gateways.

Phil Forster, managing director of Teesside International Airport, described the agreement as a significant development for the airport’s cargo operations and broader commercial strategy. He said the creation of a freight base and new China connections strengthens the airport’s role as a logistics gateway and supports its ambitions to expand aviation-related activity in the region.

Iain Edwards, chief operating officer of European Cargo, said the investment reflects the airline’s aim of connecting UK businesses with global markets while providing additional freight capacity for exporters across the North of England.

Ben Houchen, Mayor of the Tees Valley, said the new cargo base represents a vote of confidence in the airport and the wider regional economy, with the potential to support new jobs and attract further investment.

The deal forms part of a wider programme of investment at the airport designed to strengthen Teesside’s position as a growing aviation and logistics hub serving the North of England. These include Willis Aviation Services‘ recently opened £13.5m aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul facility, the development of two aircraft painting facilities operated by Airbourne Colours and the construction of a new £7m hangar by aerospace firm Draken.