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Maastricht Aachen airport has gained approval to inspect plant-based goods on site, which will enable it to handle fruit, vegetables and flowers faster and reducing transit times for temperature-sensitive cargo.
Maastricht Aachen airport (MST) has secured approval as an inspection location for ‘Products of Non-Animal Origin’ from the Dutch food and consumer product safety authority NVWA, which granted the authorisation after an audit which the European Commission confirmed. The decision allows mandatory inspections of plant-based cargo to take place directly in the Dutch gateway.
Faster controls for fresh cargo
The designation allows the Netherlands’ second-largest cargo hub to process a broader range of fruit, vegetables, flowers and other plant products. Authorities can now inspect shipments on arrival rather than having to move them to other locations. This change shortens transit times and helps preserve the quality of sensitive perishables.
Airport managers say the development will further strengthen MST’s role in European perishables logistics. Short transfer times and efficient handling processes already support temperature-controlled cargo flows. On-site inspections now reduce waiting times further and help operators maintain a secure cold chain.
The gateway confirmed its phytosanitary inspection status in 2025 and this new authorisation thus further strengthens its position as a specialised logistics centre for global fresh produce trade. Furthermore, operators can also benefit from unrestricted slots and extensive cargo infrastructure at the airport.
