In a noteworthy collaboration between Kitakyushu Airport and DHL Global Forwarding, a division of DHL Group that specializes in air and ocean freight, the airport successfully facilitated the transportation of semiconductor manufacturing equipment towards the end of the preceding year. This operation is considered to be the airport’s largest and most technically complex cargo operation to date, necessitating an exceptional level of transportation expertise.
The equipment in question, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, weighed nearly 180 tons. The transport route commenced from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, located in the Netherlands, and culminated at Kitakyushu Airport. The dedicated cargo aircraft, a sizable freighter, was used for this purpose.
Commencing in 2023, Kitakyushu Airport, spearheaded primarily by DHL Global Forwarding Japan Co., Ltd. (DGF) and Korean Air, planned to import semiconductor manufacturing equipment to satisfy regional transport requirements. By working in close association with companies in charge of regular cargo flights’ ground handling, the airport was able to develop a strong handling system.
Staff members from each entity joined forces to devise and implement comprehensive strategies, ensuring the safe and efficient transport of the equipment from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Kitakyushu Airport. Every aspect, ranging from risk management to temperature, humidity control, and vibration reduction, was meticulously taken care of. These collective endeavors have contributed to establishing a steady operational structure for managing similar consignments in the future.
Karsten Michaelis, the CEO of North Asia, DHL Global Forwarding, and the President and Representative Director of DHL Global Forwarding Japan, acknowledged the vital role of semiconductors in contemporary technology. He emphasized that DHL had constructed a solid framework to facilitate this significant supply chain operation with precision and expertise. The establishment of a dedicated office at Kitakyushu Airport, coupled with the collaborative efforts of the Semiconductor Specialist Team, Kitakyushu Airport authorities, and Korean Air, led to the creation of an integrated setup. This amalgamation of infrastructure development and seamless operational collaboration extends beyond this project. DHL’s global CapX Qualification Program and standardized processes across multiple locations ensure consistency, safety, and operational excellence.
The Kitakyushu Airport Promotion Council, comprising Fukuoka Prefecture, Kitakyushu City, and other members, provides subsidies to businesses for international air cargo transport. They also offer subsidies for the transportation of semiconductor manufacturing equipment and related items.
What was the weight of the semiconductor manufacturing equipment transported?
The semiconductor manufacturing equipment weighed approximately 180 tons.
Who were the key entities involved in the transportation project?
The key entities involved were Kitakyushu Airport, DHL Global Forwarding Japan Co., Ltd. (DGF), and Korean Air.
What steps have been taken by the Kitakyushu Airport Promotion Council regarding semiconductor-related cargo?
The Kitakyushu Airport Promotion Council provides subsidies to businesses for international air cargo transport, including the transportation of semiconductor manufacturing equipment and related items.
