The air cargo industry has become an environment of precisely choreographed freight networks characterized by increasing indifference to mode choice. The result is a business platform that enables worldwide trade at an increasingly faster pace, and often at decreasing cost. However, it can be difficult for management in cargo-related industries to keep pace with industry shifts because precise data are not readily available. As a result, those organizations that have the analytical tools and capabilities to make sound business decisions have an edge in increasing network efficiencies and company profits.

The restructuring of industry network standards is providing nontraditional cargo gateways with an opportunity to increase both regional and international trade flows. Many airport sponsors are undertaking cargo marketing efforts, and the competition for new or expanded cargo service is strong. LFA can provide airport sponsors with the analytical foundation for presenting business cases to cargo operators and a proactive facility development strategy to accommodate cargo growth. In addition, LFA can assist airport sponsors in identifying the key decision-makers at freight forwarders, third-party logistics providers, trucking companies, and all-cargo airlines who have the ability to incorporate new or expanded levels of cargo activity at different airport locations.

LFA staff have experience in providing air cargo consulting services at airports with cargo operations of all sizes and focus. We have a comprehensive understanding of the North American and international cargo industries, and of the potential roles that airports with different characteristics can play. Our understanding of the conditions contributing to cargo service decisions at, for example, Miami International Airport, with major international trade flows and Sacramento International Airport, with a highly competitive regional market can be applied to developing or increasing the cargo markets at other airports.

Services
-Cargo marketing and strategic business plans
-Cargo facility assessments
-Cargo forecasting
-Database analysis of local, regional, and international cargo flows
-Integrated carrier and freight forwarder network analyses
-Coordination with cargo service providers
-Coordination with FAA and other public agencies

Representative Projects
-Cargo Business and Facilities Development (WorldPort), Denver International Airport
-Air Cargo Facility Development, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport