Lyon Set to Unveil State-of-the-Art Cargo Hub for Pharmaceutical Industry by 2026

According to a recent announcement, Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), now part of SATS, has secured a 20-year lease for a new air cargo terminal at Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS). This facility is set to launch in the summer of 2026 and is strategically located in one of the globe’s top vaccine production hubs.

the new terminal will span 5.2 hectares and cover an notable area of 25,313 square meters right next to the runway. It will feature over 19,000 square meters dedicated to warehouse space along with additional areas for temperature-sensitive goods that require specific storage conditions between +2°C and +25°C.This setup is particularly crucial for pharmaceutical products and perishables. The design also includes three office blocks—two reserved for client use—enhancing operational efficiency.

This project is being developed through collaboration among WFS, Groupe em2c, Prologis, and the Lyon Airport authority. once operational, it’s expected to bolster economic activity in the Rhône-Alpes region by supporting local exporters and importers while creating over 300 jobs directly or indirectly linked to associated services.

“The Aéroport de Lyon DC1 will become our second-largest hub in France after Paris CDG,” stated Laurent Bernard, Vice-President of WFS France. “Its prime location will enhance our cargo processing capabilities significantly—especially for pharmaceuticals—and help us reduce turnaround times while minimizing our carbon footprint thanks to its BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating.”

The upcoming facility at LYS will be integrated into SATS’ global network that spans over 215 locations across 27 countries—a network responsible for handling more than half of worldwide air cargo traffic.

“The ADL DC1 platform showcases triumphant collaboration among Prologis, Groupe em2c, WFS, and Aéroports de Lyon,” remarked Cédric fechter from Aéroports de Lyon. “This development not only enhances freight operations but also supports regional economic growth by addressing healthcare transportation needs linked closely with the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region’s status as a leading vaccine producer.”

This new terminal aligns with both logistical efficiency goals and environmental sustainability standards set forth by SATS/WFS. With features like 36 dock doors—including five specifically designed for aircraft pallets—the facility aims to streamline import-export processes effectively.

Sustainability remains a priority throughout construction; plans include achieving BREEAM certification alongside features such as solar panels on the roof and electric vehicle charging stations on-site—all aimed at reducing environmental impact while powering operations sustainably.

The establishment promises not just enhanced logistics but also serves as a central hub consolidating various activities previously scattered across multiple sites into one high-capacity location tailored specifically for airfreight needs.

Vincent Sadé from Prologis emphasized: “Lyon represents an essential market for us; we’re committed to creating lasting value through job creation and sustainable practices.” He added that this initiative exemplifies how strategic partnerships can lead to innovative solutions tailored precisely towards meeting complex regulatory requirements within sustainable real estate frameworks.