FIVE forklift trucks have rolled into action at Kent International Airport marking a further £250,000 investment in its freight handling operation.

Airport owners Infratil ordered the Doosan Infracore vehicles in June along with three larger forklifts that will be delivered in the New Year.

The four 2.5 tonne and one 4.5 tonne vehicles will help sort incoming freight, which at this time of year includes fresh produce, and ensure it is despatched from the airport quickly and efficiently.

Freight co-ordinator Stuart Dalton said: "These forklifts not only improve our existing fleet but they increase our capacity to handle different types of aircraft.

"In the New Year we get our big forks which will be our real workhorses."

The machines will be used primarily in the warehouse while the later arrivals, weighing in at 11 tonnes and 13 tonnes, will be used for unloading aircraft.

Airport chief executive Matt Clarke added: "Freight traffic here is on the up. We are now renowned as having the fastest turnaround times in the industry. There is a lot of scope for growth.

"This investment in new equipment demonstrates Infratil's long-term commitment to Kent International and will encourage additional operators to use us for their freight and passenger services."