Maastricht Aachen Airport highlights faster flower cargo handling
Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST) has released new data showing it handles flower cargo significantly faster than other airports across the European Union, strengthening its case as a specialist hub for perishables.
According to data collected in 2025, flower shipments entering Europe through MST reach their final destination in around half the time, on average, compared with similar cargo moving via other European airports.
Average handling time as low as three hours
The airport said flower cargo is processed at MST in an average of three hours, compared with 3.5 to 6.5 hours at other airports.
Even during peak periods, handling times at the Dutch cargo hub remain stable at between two and four hours, while the longest processing times at other European cargo airports can range from seven to ten hours.
MST said the results are based on around 5,000 temperature measurements gathered after the airport invested in advanced monitoring technology in 2025 to improve the handling of sensitive and perishable cargo.
Speed seen as critical for product quality
Dean Boljuncic, Head of Commercial Development at Maastricht Aachen Airport, said handling time is a decisive factor in preserving the quality and shelf life of flowers.
He said every minute flowers are exposed to higher temperatures shortens their lifespan, adding that the new data shows MST consistently processes delicate cargo faster, helping to reduce value loss across the supply chain.
Direct access to Aalsmeer supports same-day delivery
The airport said its rapid turnaround times, combined with a strategic location and direct motorway access, mean that 80% of flower shipments handled via MST reach the Aalsmeer auction before closing on the same day.
That shorter logistics chain helps reduce waste and improve product quality for end customers, the airport added.
Boljuncic said the figures show MST is not only fast but also highly consistent, which is particularly important for perishable products where timing has a direct impact on value.
Positioning as a perishables gateway
The new data supports Maastricht Aachen Airport’s wider positioning as a specialist European gateway for perishables and other sensitive cargo, where speed, temperature control and operational consistency are central to supply chain performance.