Lufthansa Cargo Newsticker, March 10, 2026

• Lufthansa Cargo and CEVA Logistics expand SAF cooperation 
• Line Operations of Driverless Tow Tractors Starts at Frankfurt Hub
• Lufthansa Cargo facilitates the transport of two bears by FOUR PAWS from Buenos Aires
• A Journey of Impact: Visiting Cargo Human Care in Nairobi

Lufthansa Cargo and CEVA Logistics expand SAF cooperation 

Lufthansa Cargo is consistently advancing the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) together with customers and partners. The focus is on a strategic approach based on three-year framework agreements, clearly defined quality and verification standards, and flexible follow-up arrangements. This model provides planning certainty while allowing additional SAF volumes to be integrated at short notice and the use of more sustainable aviation fuels to be scaled step by step.

“The market ramp-up of SAF requires reliability, transparency and long-term collaboration. This is exactly where our structured approach comes in,” says Bettina Petzold, Head of Corporate Responsibility at Lufthansa Cargo. “Our agreements create the foundation on which we want to achieve measurable progress together with our customers in reducing CO₂ emissions across global supply chains.”

A key example of this strategic approach is the partnership with CEVA Logistics. Building on a multi-year SAF framework agreement concluded in 2025, an additional SAF volume for 2026 was now agreed with ease. The existing contractual framework enabled both companies to implement further SAF volumes for CEVA Logistics quickly and reliably. While the first agreement for 2025, as previously announced, enabled a CO₂ reduction of around 8,000 metric tons, the newly added volume will contribute a further reduction of around 7,000 metric tons in 2026. Combined, this results in total CO₂ savings of approximately 15,000 metric tons.

Line Operations of Driverless Tow Tractors Starts at Frankfurt Hub

Lufthansa Cargo has taken an important step to automated logistics processes: Since last November, driverless tow tractors have been in regular operations at the Lufthansa Cargo Center in Frankfurt, both outdoors and in two warehouses. The vehicles, manufactured by TractEasy, transport freight around the clock between the import and export terminal, already covering approximately 2,000 kilometers per month.

Following several months of testing in 24-hour operation, this successful implementation marks a key milestone in the modernization of the infrastructure and automation of transport processes at the hub. At the same time, the strategic advancement of handling processes contributes to securing the future viability of Frankfurt as Lufthansa Cargo’s home hub.

As part of its comprehensive transport automation program, Lufthansa Cargo plans to deploy three types of driverless transport vehicles in the future, based on an extensive concept development. These vehicles will cover a variety of internal transport tasks. The goal is to strategically relieve skilled staff from routine tasks, enabling them to focus on value-adding activities and thereby actively address the growing shortage of skilled labor.

By 2030, a highly automated transport system will be implemented in several phases, seamlessly integrating into the future on-site infrastructure. Additional pilot projects will follow in the coming years: Later this year, an automated special vehicle for ULD transports will be implemented, with automated forklifts to follow in 2027. In addition, a central fleet management software will be introduced to assign all transport orders to the most suitable driverless vehicle within the fleet.

With these steps, Lufthansa Cargo is moving further towards greater efficiency, flexibility, and process reliability — sending a clear signal for the future of air freight logistics.

Lufthansa Cargo facilitates the transport of two bears rescued by FOUR PAWS from Buenos Aires

Lufthansa Cargo recently enabled the safe and seamless transport of two rescued brown bears, Gordo and Florencia, from Buenos Aires to their new home at FOUR PAWS’ BEAR SANCTUARY BELITSA in Bulgaria. The mission underscores not only the dedication of everyone involved but also the flexibility of Lufthansa Cargo’s global network, which makes such complex, multistage transports possible.

The bears had previously lived in inadequate conditions at the former Zoo Luján in Argentina, and their relocation required months of preparation, including crate training, veterinary checks, and coordinated logistics across continents. Under full veterinary oversight from FOUR PAWS, they first travelled on a Lufthansa Cargo B777 freighter from Buenos Aires to Frankfurt, arriving calmly thanks to the careful preparations.

At the Lufthansa Cargo Animal Lounge in Frankfurt, both animals received speciesappropriate care before continuing their journey on board an A321F. To ensure the most direct and safe onward transport, the routing was adapted with an additional operational stop in Sofia—marking the first time bears were flown directly from South America to Sofia Airport. This operational flexibility proved essential for meeting the specific needs of the animals and partners involved.

Upon arrival in Bulgaria, Gordo and Florencia were welcomed by representatives of FOUR PAWS and local authorities before undergoing final health checks and travelling on to BEAR SANCTUARY BELITSA. Operated by FOUR PAWS together with Fondation Brigitte Bardot, the sanctuary provides forest habitats, pools, dens, and lifelong expert care for rescued bears from across Europe.

Gordo and Florencia are now settling into their new environment — taking their first steps toward a life that finally reflects their natural needs. Lufthansa Cargo is proud to have supported FOUR PAWS in this important animal welfare effort and continues to demonstrate how flexible network solutions can help enable meaningful transport missions around the world.

A Journey of Impact: Visiting Cargo Human Care in Nairobi

At the end of February, Lufthansa Cargo’s CFO and CHRO, Gregor Schleussner, traveled to Nairobi to visit the projects of the aid organization Cargo Human Care. The visit provided valuable insight into the impact of the organization’s work and the many initiatives it has developed over the past two decades.

Cargo Human Care supports children and young adults through a holistic approach that provides safety, education, and long-term prospects. At the center of these efforts is the Mothers’ Mercy Home, where the youngest children receive care, stability, and access to education. From there, Cargo Human Care accompanies them throughout their educational journey – from school through vocational training or higher education – enabling them to build independent and sustainable lives.

In addition to educational and residential support, Cargo Human Care provides essential medical services through its modern medical center. The organization also implements community projects aimed at improving living conditions in the region, including the construction of water wells in the rural area of Marsabit.

During his visit, Gregor Schleussner experienced these initiatives firsthand:

“Cargo Human Care has achieved an impressive amount over the past 20 years. It was a special experience to meet children and young people in Nairobi who have found a home there and who are being given the opportunity to build a better future through education and training.”

Further impressions from his visit are documented in this video.

Cargo Human Care has been committed to supporting disadvantaged children and families in Kenya for many years. The organization is supported through donations, memberships, as well as various initiatives and events. Those who would like to support Cargo Human Care can become a member, participate in the annual Bürostadtlauf, or shop in the Fanshop– with all proceeds directly benefiting the organization’s projects.