San Francisco International Airport Accelerates Air Cargo Operations with Advanced Lödige Industries Technology
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is advancing a major expansion of its air cargo infrastructure through a more than $300m investment. Designed to accommodate growing cargo volumes through advanced automation, the facility will enhance efficiency and further strengthen SFO’s position as a leading air cargo gateway on the US West Coast. Lödige Industries, a global leader in cargo terminal technology, has been selected to equip the terminal with customised solutions for automated storage, retrieval, and high-throughput operations.
Designed to deliver fast, reliable, and scalable cargo-handling operations, the terminal will enhance the efficiency of cargo movement through the airport and strengthen SFO’s ability to serve airlines, freight forwarders, and logistics partners. The facility is scheduled for completion in spring 2028, with operations expected to commence later that year.
“This investment reflects SFO’s commitment to providing modern, efficient cargo facilities that support our airline partners and the regional economy,” says Samuel Chui, project manager at San Francisco International Airport.
“The cutting-edge cargo terminal positions SFO at the forefront of West Coast air cargo logistics,” states Jonathan Hardy, Managing Director North America at Lödige Industries. “Our automated systems are engineered for maximum efficiency and scalability, enabling SFO to handle growing cargo volumes while fully leveraging advanced automation and digital connectivity.”
At the core of the 310,000ft², two-storey terminal are three Elevating Transfer Vehicles (ETVs), delivering fast, reliable, fully automated storage and retrieval of Unit Load Devices (ULDs). Operating on a rail-guided system, the ETVs can move ULDs vertically and horizontally simultaneously, boosting operational speed and flexibility. This automated equipment is designed to streamline workflows, increase throughput, and significantly reduce turnaround times at the airport.
Hardy adds: “Growing e-commerce and global trade are driving an increase in air cargo volumes, prompting key US cargo hubs to expand and modernise. Lödige Industries is dedicated to serving as a reliable strategic partner, supporting airports as they navigate an evolving industry landscape. The project at SFO marks another important milestone in our commitment to innovation in North America’s air cargo industry, building on current projects at New York John F Kennedy and Toronto Pearson International Airport.”
About Lödige USA Inc.
Lödige USA Inc. is headquartered in New York. Since 1985, Lödige Industries has been a key player in the United States logistics landscape, delivering sophisticated solutions for air cargo terminals and production logistics systems. Lödige Industries carried out a state-of-the-art automated cargo system at John F Kennedy Airport.
International Airport in New York. Further milestones for the company include, for example, high-performance air cargo terminals for Korean Air in Los Angeles and American Airlines in Dallas.
About Lödige Industries
Headquartered in Ostwestfalen, Germany, Lödige Industries is the world market leader for air cargo terminals and automated parking systems and is also a leading provider of logistics systems for warehouses and industry as well as lift solutions. With offices around the world, Lödige Industries provides material handling solutions for a wide range of customers. Founded in 1948, the family-owned business specialises in the supply of complex material-handling systems from planning, design, programming and commissioning to service. In 2025, Lödige Industries generated €246m in revenue. The company employs approximately 1,500 people.
