While Schiphol Airport (AMS) still faces its ongoing slot-reduction threats, Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST), has no such restriction and because it is located right next to the highway and offers minimal dwell times, it is just as quick a connection to the world’s largest flower auction in Aalsmeer, as AMS. Flowers landing at MST are sent on their way by truck within just two hours of arrival. MST also enjoys the same investor as AMS since 2023, as that was the year that the Royal Schiphol Group bought a 40% stake in the airport. Given its flexibility and great connections, it will naturally continue to attract cargo customers. One of the first this year, is Turkish Cargo, which returns following a five-year break in services. The airline now offers a twice-weekly Quito-Miami-Maastricht-Istanbul flight, which is set to carry flowers, other perishable goods and general cargo. It states the reasons for its return as being “MST’s excellent ground handling and efficiency” and since MST is certified as an Authorized Economic Operator (AEO), cargo can move more swiftly through its customs while adhering to strict security procedures.
Dean Boljuncic, Head of Commercial Development, MST, revealed: “Our specialized in-house cargo hub was chosen for its fast and efficient service, a one-stop shop model that bolsters our handling capacity and customized provisions. We are proud of our team’s efforts to earn this reputation for excellent handling that is seeing Turkish cargo return to Maastricht; to be competitive we rely on our dedicated team of cargo specialists to offer flexibility and high-quality service. Our customer-orientated approach along with our cooperation and operational excellence are qualities that we pride ourselves in and we are proud that these qualities have encouraged Turkish Cargo to rejoin. Two years ago, we received the excellence award from Turkish Airlines and its amazing to see the airline return because of our operational excellence.”
