Global Crossing Airlines Partners with Airblox to Launch Chicago-Puerto Rico Cargo Service
Global Crossing Airlines, also known as GlobalX, has teamed up with digital freight exchange platform Airblox to provide direct, cost-effective cargo services between Chicago O’Hare International Airport and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
This new service, starting October 10, 2024, will operate three times a week, filling a significant market gap for direct containerized transport.
The cargo flights will utilize the Airbus A321 converted freighter, known for its efficient fuel consumption and increased containerized capacity compared to traditional freighters. “We’re excited to offer this high-demand route through the Airblox platform,” said Ryan Goepel, President and CFO of GlobalX. “The A321F freighter delivers 14% more containerized capacity than the B757-200, along with a 19% reduction in fuel consumption. This combination allows us to offer industry-leading pricing and operational efficiency.”
The service will cater to industries such as pharmaceuticals, automotive, and medical supplies, which heavily rely on consistent freight access to Puerto Rico. Neel Jones Shah, an Airblox board member, noted the importance of the new route: “There’s no freighter capacity between San Juan and Chicago, particularly for express service. We anticipate high demand from the Midwest to Puerto Rico and vice versa, as many businesses need reliable, regular capacity for time-sensitive shipments.”
The partnership marks a significant step for GlobalX, as the airline has faced challenges in growing its cargo business since mid-2023 due to regional freight demand and competition with Boeing 737-800 freighters. By leveraging Airblox’s platform, GlobalX aims to secure medium-term contracts, providing stability in cargo volumes.
Airblox’s innovative marketplace, launched in 2022, allows small and medium businesses to secure future blocks of cargo space through blockchain-based transactions. The platform also facilitates financing and insurance options, making it particularly attractive for freight forwarders needing consistent pricing and capacity on routes like the new Chicago-San Juan service.
“This collaboration enhances our network and offers forwarders greater reliability and efficiency for their cargo needs,” Shah added. Businesses can reserve space for shipments 30 to 120 days in advance, benefiting from the medium-term contract structure that provides predictability and potentially better rates.
As GlobalX positions itself to capitalize on this opportunity, the airline hopes to expand service on this route if demand proves sustainable, offering a valuable service to the airfreight industry and meeting the specific needs of forwarders on this essential route.
