The arrival of the 747-400 freighter 9H-AKJ at 10:45am on Saturday marked Avalon as the first airport in Australia to receive freight under the Australia Saudi Logistics Alliance arrangement, signed on 9 June, opening up a direct cargo corridor with the Gulf state.

The precinct is a dedicated section of WSI that will have the capacity to deliver 1.8 million tonnes of air cargo every year, connecting manufacturers with increased access to trade and engagement with partners around the world.

The Flying Kangaroo says that the deal will specifically support Melbourne Airport’s $4.5 billion international terminal expansion, as well as an extended fifteen year commitment to the airport’s third runway.

Already in service with the Army’s 20th Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery, the Integrator uncrewed aerial system (UAS) is the fourth platform operated by the Navy’s dedicated UAS squadron since its commissioning in 2018.