Swissport International has expanded its ‘Flower Corridor’ network to key European air cargo hubs, ensuring a fully temperature-controlled transport process for fresh flowers from Kenya to Europe. This upgrade extends shelf life by up to a week, benefiting both growers and consumers.
With Valentine’s Day driving a surge in demand, Swissport anticipates handling over 250 million flowers at its Nairobi air cargo centre. To accommodate the increased volumes, 35 additional freighter flights; an over 50% rise compared to average levels will transport fresh blooms from Kenyan farms via Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) to global destinations.
To maintain high standards during peak seasons, Swissport continues to invest in advanced technology and increased capacity. Its ‘Flower Corridor’ concept, first introduced in Kenya two years ago, has now been extended to Amsterdam and Liège. The system ensures that fresh flowers are transported seamlessly within a controlled temperature range, from farm to final destination. The process includes high-speed vacuum cooling upon acceptance, efficient ground handling, and swift pallet loading onto aircraft.
“Our Flower Corridor is a crucial link in the cool supply chain for fresh flowers across Africa and Europe,” says Dirk Goovaerts, CEO of Swissport’s CEMEAI region and Global Cargo Chair. “With our latest investments in Amsterdam and Liège, we are strengthening our role as a trusted partner for flower logistics, ensuring high-quality blooms reach consumers fresher and faster.”
In addition to expanding temperature-controlled storage in Amsterdam and Liège, Swissport has improved internal logistics at its air cargo centres. Enhancements such as additional loading bridges, over 140 caster deck positions in Amsterdam, and a fast lane for speedy transport have tripled loading capacity and cut delivery times. These upgrades help ensure flowers arrive fresh and on time for key floral events, including Valentine’s Day and International Women’s Day.
Swissport’s advanced logistics also enhance sustainability. By extending flower shelf life and reducing waste, the system gives Kenyan growers a competitive edge over less sustainable greenhouse farms in Europe. Through its ongoing investment in the Flower Corridor, Swissport is set to lead the global flower logistics sector, delivering high-quality blooms to European consumers during peak seasons and beyond.