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CBP selects WFS for new examination station at JFK

AviationPros | AviationPros

By Sky Industry News

May 29, 2024

Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), part of the SATS Group, has been selected by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to manage a new Centralized Examination Station (CES) at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). This contract, lasting five years, represents a significant step for CBP in enhancing border management and control.

The CES is set to open in phases starting in the first quarter of 2025. It will be the first Air CES at JFK to include all segments of CBP inspections and will process import, export, and USDA goods. The nearest existing CES station is currently located at Newark Airport.

Salvatore Ingrassia, Port Director at CBP for JFK, described the CES as "a game-changer" that will improve resource optimization and enforcement efforts to protect American commerce from harmful imports. He emphasized its benefits for both CBP operations and the JFK trade community by increasing efficiency in processing lawful goods.

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Ingrassia acknowledged WFS's leadership in international cargo logistics: “We recognize Worldwide Freight Services (WFS) as a global leader... We look forward to our continued collaboration with WFS.”

JFK serves as North America's busiest international airport regarding passengers and widebody flight operations. It is a major hub for air cargo, with over 85 airlines moving approximately 1.4 million tons annually through various on-airport warehouses.

Mike Simpson, CEO Americas at WFS, expressed pride in supporting CBP’s mission: “WFS is honoured... This partnership marks another exciting chapter for WFS.”

The CES facility will occupy more than 100,000 square feet within Building 151 at JFK. Its location near the ramp allows quick access from any airside location within the airport boundary. Shipments needing inspection will be transported from airline facilities to this centralized station.

WFS plans to tailor the facility to meet specific CBP requirements while developing custom software for paperless operations—marking it as an innovative step towards digitization in air cargo handling.

By 2025, WFS aims to increase its cargo capacity at JFK by 20% with a new terminal featuring advanced technology and sustainability solutions. This expansion aligns with their broader network strategy across key cities in North America under SATS Group’s umbrella.