New data released by Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST) indicates the hub processes flower cargo up to twice as fast as other airports across the European Union (EU).

"Data collected in 2025 shows that flowers entering Europe via MST reach their final destination in half the time, on average, compared to similar shipments travelling through other European airports," the Dutch airport said.

It added that flower cargo at MST is handled in an average of 3 hours, compared to 3.5 and 6.5 hours at other airports.

MST has invested in advanced monitoring technology in 2025 to improve the quality and lifespan of sensitive cargo passing through the Dutch cargo hub. 

It said that based on approximately 5,000 temperature measurements, the data confirms that MST is among Europe's most efficient airports for handling perishable and sensitive goods.

"Handling time is a decisive factor in the quality and shelf life of flowers," said Dean Boljuncic, head of Commercial Development at Maastricht Aachen Airport.

"Every minute flowers are exposed to higher temperatures shortens their lifespan. This data shows that MST consistently needs less time to process delicate cargo, thereby reducing value loss across the supply chain."

Even during peak periods, the Netherlands' second-largest cargo airport achieves stable, short handling times of 2 to 4 hours.

It noted that in comparison, the longest handling times at other European cargo airports range from 7 to 10 hours.

Thanks to rapid handling and a strategic location with direct motorway access, 80% of flower shipments via MST reach the Aalsmeer auction before closing on the same day.

This leads to a shorter logistics chain, reducing waste and improving product quality for the end consumer.

"These results show that we are not only fast, but above all remarkably consistent," Boljuncic said.

"For perishables such as flowers, time is literally money. With these insights into the entire chain, we can reduce waste, increase quality, and offer our customers a reliable transport network," he said.

Advanced monitoring enables MST to track real-time conditions, optimise handling, and supports the airport's strategy to stand out in quality, time-critical cargo.

With ample capacity, direct motorway access, and minimal waiting times, MST remains an attractive alternative to larger cargo hubs and continues to position itself as a reliable gateway in the region.