CALGARY — Twenty-five years ago, YYC Calgary International Airport (YYC) welcomed Cargolux's first freighter flight. Since then, Alberta's exports have grown from $56.9 billion to more than $176 billion last year, with more than 70 per cent of Alberta's air cargo tonnage travelling through YYC.
"A lot has change across our region over the last 25 years," said Balázs Bogáts, Chief Commercial Officer at Calgary Airports. "Businesses are reaching more customers around the world, new industries have emerged and Calgary's logistics sector has expanded. Through it all, Cargolux has helped provide a direct, reliable connection between Western Canada and international markets across the pond."
The Luxemourg-based carrier launched service to Calgary in September 2001, establishing a dedicated freighter connection between Western Canada and Europe. Today, Cargolux connects Calgary to a network of more than 70 destinations worldwide through Luxembourg, one of Europe's largest cargo hubs.
“Cargolux is proud of its long-standing and successful partnership with Calgary airport. As the only scheduled international cargo operator offering services in this province, Cargolux supports transatlantic trade flows between Europe and Alberta. Over the past 25 years, we have worked closely together to serve customers in the region and we look forward to continuing this journey,” said Richard Forson, Cargolux President and CEO.
Last year, YYC saw more than 5,200 cargo landings. To support the region’s demand, Calgary Airports has invested more than $100 million in cargo infrastructure, including specialized facilities designed to handle everything from perishable goods and pharmaceuticals to oversized industrial equipment and live animals.
Calgary's growing role in the sector will be on display in 2027 when the city hosts the International Air Transport Association's World Cargo Symposium, the largest annual gathering of the global air cargo industry.
For more information on Cargolux, visit www.cargolux.com
For more information on the 2027 World Cargo Symposium, visit www.iata.org/events/world-cargo-symposium
About Calgary Airports
Calgary Airports (formally, The Calgary Airport Authority) is a non-share capital corporation incorporated under the Regional Airports Authorities Act of Alberta. It is responsible for the management, operation and development of YYC Calgary International Airport and YBW Springbank Airport. Calgary Airports’ commitment to safety remains a top priority. Our airports are important economic generators for the city, region and province, supporting thousands of jobs and generating billions in GDP through associated economic activity. Calgary Airports was also recognized as one of Alberta’s Top Employers for 2026.
About Cargolux Airlines International
Cargolux, based in Luxembourg, is Europe’s leading all-cargo airline operating a fleet of 30 Boeing 747-8 freighters and Boeing 747-400 freighters. As a future-geared airline, Cargolux also has 10 efficient Boeing 777-8F on order to replace its ageing 747-400 aircraft. The Cargolux worldwide network covers over 50 destinations on scheduled all-cargo flights and offers full and part-charter services. The company has more than 90 offices in over 50 countries and operates an extensive global trucking network to more than 250 destinations. With over 55 years of experience in the air cargo industry and an extensive product portfolio, Cargolux provides tailored transport solutions for all types of shipments. The Cargolux Group also offers aerial firefighting services through its dedicated unit Aquarius Aerial Firefighting. As a responsible cargo carrier, Cargolux has developed a solid Sustainability program encompassing Environmental, Social, and Governance principles. The Cargolux Group employs close to 4,000 staff members worldwide.
Media Relations
Calgary Airports
P: 403 735 5899
media@yyc.com