Since its inception in 2001, Incheon International Airport has consistently upgraded its logistics infrastructure and network. By 2021 and 2022, it had fortified its role as a central logistics hub in Northeast Asia, processing the second-largest volume of international cargo worldwide.

Initially, Incheon International Airport managed a modest 1.19 million tons of cargo annually. However, by early 2006, just five years later, this figure rose to a cumulative 10 million tons. By the beginning of 2018, it reached 40 million tons, and impressively, the subsequent 3.5 years saw a leap to 50 million tons, showcasing the rapid expansion of its air cargo operations.

In 2022, out of the 2.95 million tons of international air freight Incheon International Airport managed, transshipment cargo constituted 1.12 million tons, approximately 38% of the total. This significant transshipment ratio, higher than that of its neighboring airports, underscores Incheon’s leading role as a pivotal logistics hub in the region.

As of December 2022, Incheon International Airport offered non-stop connections to 152 cities in 53 countries through 87 airlines. The expansive network reaches destinations such as China (20 cities), Japan (6 cities), Southeast Asia (10 cities), North America (27 cities), Central and South America (5 cities), and Europe (18 cities).

Incheon International Airport’s ongoing Phase 4 construction project aims to transform itself into a ‘Mega Hub Airport’, boasting an annual passenger handling capacity of 106 million, facilitating 600,000 flight operations, and catering to a cargo capacity of 6.3 million tons.

The centerpiece of this phase, the fourth runway, was inaugurated on June 17, 2021. Moreover, the anticipated completion of the second passenger terminal by 2024 is set to further cement Incheon’s global prominence in business and logistics.

In response to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and the demands of a growing economy, Incheon International Airport has observed an annual 20% increase in temperature-sensitive cargo, which includes vaccines, bio-pharmaceuticals, and fresh produce. To efficiently address this growth, the airport introduced the ‘Cool Cargo Center’ in September 2021. Strategically located AIRSIDE, this cutting-edge facility ensures swift transfers between passenger flights and guarantees secure processing of goods, even in challenging weather conditions, enhancing Incheon’s reputation as a leading hub for perishable goods.

The Incheon International Airport Free Trade Zone comprises an airport logistics complex and a cargo terminal area. This structure offers clients an enhanced competitive environment, bolstered by efficient customs procedures, non-tariff benefits, and a range of incentives.

In April 2005, an area of 2.093 million square meters was designated as the Free Trade Zone. This was followed by the addition of 922 thousand square meters to the primary airport logistics complex in December 2007. By April 2020, another 326 thousand square meters was integrated into the Free Trade Zone. Companies operating within this zone enjoy the freedom of manufacturing, logistics, and trade activities and also benefit from reduced rental fees and tariff concessions.

Both the airport logistics complex and cargo terminal areas within the Free Trade Zone are interconnected, ensuring smooth transitions between them. This setup supports various activities, including basic processing, assembly, and specific end-user services, allowing companies to adapt swiftly in a rapidly changing global business environment.

Currently, the airport logistics complex houses 35 logistics firms and 1 manufacturing entities. These entities are evolving from standard import-export logistics to more sophisticated and high-value logistics operations.

The cargo terminal, which includes major airlines like Korean Air and Asiana, features 8 cargo terminals, 3 air freight warehouses, 4 specialized processing facilities, and 2 customs-bonded areas, solidifying its position as a key logistics hub.

Since its establishment in 2001, Incheon International Airport boasts 190,000 hours of continuous and safe operations. Utilizing the sophisticated UNI-PASS electronic customs system of the Korea Customs Service, the airport offers unmatched customs services among the 177 nations affiliated with the World Customs Organization. The 24-hour customs capability ensures seamless logistics operations.

In 2003, Incheon International Airport became the first in Asia to achieve the highest runway operation grade, CAT-III. This grade corresponds to a Runway Visual Range (RVR) of 100m for landing and 175m for takeoff. Currently, all four of its runways operate under the CAT-III grade, which signifies an RVR of just 75m. This underscores the capability of aircraft to safely land in conditions with runway visibility as limited as 75 meters.