Emirates has commenced the activation of its sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) agreement with Neste at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.
Over 2m gallons of blended SAF will be supplied into the fuelling system at Schiphol Airport over the course of 2024.
The Dubai-headquartered airline will track the delivery of SAF into the fuelling systems and the environmental benefits of this using standard industry accounting methodologies.
Emirates’ partnership with Finnish sustainable fuels producer Neste, announced late last year, represents one of the largest volumes of SAF that the airline has purchased to date.
Once fully supplied into Schiphol’s fuelling system, the blended SAF will have been comprised of over 700,000 gallons of neat SAF. The airline is also working with Neste to supply SAF into the fuelling systems at Singapore Changi Airport in the next few months.
Adel Al Redha, deputy president and chief operations officer at Emirates, said: “Collaborating with committed partners like Neste is one of the practical steps we are taking to reduce our emissions, and it’s an all-important milestone in our own sustainability journey as an airline.
“Strong partnerships like this, especially at major air transport hubs such as Amsterdam, lay the foundation for how we can work with partners and airports to increase access to and availability of SAF across our network.”
Alexander Kueper, vice president renewable aviation at Neste, said: “We are proud to support Emirates in their sustainability journey. SAF is an available solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from air travel and it is exciting that Emirates have started using our Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.
“It is also a great example of how we are working together with partners to accelerate SAF usage and are looking forward to the next steps of our cooperation.”
SAF used as part of this agreement can be safely dropped into existing jet engines and airport fuelling infrastructure, said Emirates.
The airline’s first flight powered by SAF blended with jet fuel took place in 2017 from Chicago. The airline currently operates flights from Paris, Lyon and Oslo with SAF.
In October last year, Emirates, with the support of partners, also integrated SAF into Dubai International Airport fuelling systems, allocating the SAF to a number of flights, including a flight to Sydney.
Earlier this year, the airline became the first international carrier to join the Solent Cluster in the UK, an initiative focused on low carbon investments with the potential to create a SAF plant that can produce up to 200,000 tonnes (200 kt) per year if operational by 2032.
Emirates also actively contributes to a number of industry and UAE government working groups and is in continuous discussion with a range of stakeholders to help scale the production and supply of SAF.
The airline, along with the UAE GCAA has actively played a part in developing the UAE’s power-to-liquid (PtL) fuels roadmap, driven by the UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the World Economic Forum, in addition to contributing to the UAE’s National Sustainable Aviation Fuel Roadmap which aims to transform the UAE into a regional hub for alternative aviation fuels with the ambition to produce 700m litres of SAF by 2030.
Joining entities across aviation, government, regulatory, academic, fuel production and the manufacturer value chain, Emirates is a founding participant of the UAE research consortium Air-CRAFT, focused on developing, producing, and scaling SAF technologies for the industry.
The first ever commercial transatlantic flight 100% powered by SAF took place in November 2023.
YunExpress has extended its agreement with lessor Atlas Air to include a second Boeing 777-200 freighter that will be used to cover rising e-commerce demand.
The new aircraft will enter operation under a long-term charter agreement in April and operate six weekly routes between China and the US.
The new flight will enhance YunExpress’ international logistics network and help it serve the increasing demand for cross-border e-commerce shipping from China, Atlas said.
Wang Zuan, president of YunExpress parent Zongteng Group, said: “Last December, YunExpress, in collaboration with Atlas, launched charter service between Xiamen, China and Miami utilising a 777 freighter, which has been operating with solid performance.
“The signing of this new long-term agreement further deepens and strengthens the strategic partnership between us.
“Through YunExpress, we aim to meet the growing demand for airfreight capacity between China, Europe and North America.
“Looking ahead, we aim to further expand routes and fleet size to provide customers with more convenient and diverse global transportation options, ensure supply chain resilience, and support the steady development and growth of our customers’ international businesses.”
“We are delighted to expand our strategic and long-term partnership with YunExpress,” said Michael Steen, chief executive, Atlas Air Worldwide.
“Cross-border e-commerce is driving significant demand for Atlas’ dedicated large widebody freighter capacity.
“Through our partnership with YunExpress, we are strengthening our position as the preferred supplier of dedicated airfreight capacity to leading players in the e-commerce industry.”
Yun Express also has another 777 freighter, operated by Central Airlines.
MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company announced the opening of a state-of-the-art 15,000-metre cold storage facility in Durban.
“The cold store, part of MSC’s Medlog logistics division, promises to catalyse advancements in the handling of perishable goods in South Africa and beyond, and will open up the country’s trade landscape,” says an official release.
“The MSC Group has been an integral part of South Africa’s maritime landscape since 1971 when it began operating here. The first MSC office in the country was then opened in 1978.
Today, the Group operates various entities including Mediterranean Shipping Company, Mediterranean Shipping Depot, MSC Logistics (Medlog), MSC Technical and Shosholoza Operations.
The breadth of MSC’s presence is reflected in its extensive network here with six offices strategically located in Durban, Cape Town, East London, Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth and Pretoria.”
Soren Toft, CEO, MSC Soren Toft, CEO, MSC says: ““This investment marks an exciting new milestone for exporters and importers of fresh produce across South Africa.
It exemplifies our ongoing efforts to provide value-added services to our customers while contributing to the development of the local economy.
We want to help South Africa achieve its vision to become sustainable, economically prosperous and self-reliant.” Toft underscored MSC’s dedication to realising President Cyril Ramaphosa’s vision of fostering investment and job creation in the country, citing investments exceeding 1 billion rand in infrastructure and employment-generating projects.
Supporting imports and exports The cold storage facility has a capacity of 8,000 to 10,000 pallets, the release added. “Strategically located as a hub for both imports and exports, the facility represents a paradigm shift in storage and logistics capabilities for South Africa.
Import commodities that can now be expanded include goods such as chicken sourced from Brazil, the USA and Poland while exports primarily comprise citrus destined for markets in Europe, the Middle East and Far East/Asia.”
Salvatore Sarno, Chairman, MSC South Africa says: “We are proud to unveil this state-of-the-art cold storage facility, which not only reinforces our dedication to supporting the South African economy but also underscores our commitment to job creation and economic growth.”
Jose Carlos Garcia, Warehousing & Distribution Manager, MEDLOG adds: “The construction is of the highest quality. The building features convertible rooms to accommodate both chilled and frozen cargo as well as mobile racks to optimise space. The warehouse management system is fully integrated with the Perishable Produce Export Control Board (PPECB) database to ensure regulatory compliance and full traceability.”
B&H Worldwide, a leading provider of aviation and aerospace logistics solutions, successfully facilitated the urgent movement of two CFM56 aircraft engines for T’Way Air, a South Korean low-cost carrier.
The engines were originally shipped from Seoul to Singapore for routine servicing at ST Engineering Aerospace Engine Centre. B&H Worldwide partnered with BTL Global Logistics, who appointed B&H to manage the movement within Singapore.
T’Way Air encountered an unexpected situation requiring the immediate return of one of the serviced engines due to a bird strike that grounded an aircraft. The engine was ready for collection on Monday evening and needed to be delivered to Incheon Airport (ICN) by Wednesday.
Due to regulations, Korean Airlines only ships dangerous goods out of Singapore once a week, on Fridays. B&H Worldwide worked diligently to expedite the process. They collaborated with ST Engineering Aerospace Engine Centre to confirm the engine had been purged of flammable liquids and obtained an official non-regulated declaration. This crucial step allowed B&H Worldwide to secure a last-minute spot on a Korean Airlines flight for Wednesday, meeting T’Way’s tight deadline.
B&H Worldwide’s expertise in engine handling and understanding of relevant regulations ensured the swift and cost-effective movement of both engines. T’Way Air was able to receive their engines on schedule and avoid additional charges associated with dangerous goods classification.
“We are extremely grateful for the exceptional support provided by B&H Worldwide during this urgent situation,” said James Lim, Powerplant Engineer at T’Way Air. “Their quick thinking and logistics expertise ensured our grounded aircraft was back in operation as soon as possible, minimizing disruption to our schedule.”
“B&H Worldwide’s seamless collaboration throughout this process was instrumental in a successful outcome,” added H.G. Kim, CEO at BTL Global Logistics. “Their understanding of the intricacies of aircraft engine logistics and their ability to navigate challenges made them the perfect partner for this time-sensitive operation.”
“B&H Worldwide’s vast knowledge and specialization in engine handling provided T’Way with peace of mind throughout the entire process,” commented David Wong, Station Manager in Singapore at B&H Worldwide. “We are committed to delivering efficient solutions and exceeding client expectations, and this project exemplifies that commitment.”
The Cool Chain Association (CCA) has welcomed MSC Air Cargo to its growing membership of companies working together to improve the temperature-controlled supply chain.
CCA members collaborate on initiatives to drive quality and innovation in the cool chain, with the vision of helping to reduce food loss and improve the pharmaceuticals supply chain.
The Association has recently launched a best practice video for perishables based on key findings from recent trials by CCA Board member the Perishable Products Export Control Board (PPECB), and is planning to pilot similar trials in the pharmaceutical sector.
“As a member of CCA, we are partnering with leaders in the cold chain to collaboratively address challenges and drive innovation,” said Joern Roehl, Head of Products, Quality and Transformation, MSC Air Cargo.
“MSC Air Cargo will be contributing to the community surrounding quality and value in the temperature-controlled supply chain.”
MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, is a global leader in transportation and logistics, privately owned and founded in 1970 by Gianluigi Aponte.
As one of the world’s leading container shipping lines, MSC has 675 offices across 155 countries worldwide with almost 200,000 employees. With access to an integrated network of road, rail, air, and sea transport resources which stretches across the globe, the company prides itself on delivering global service with local knowledge.
“CCA members continue to work together to find new ways to improve the temperature-controlled supply chain, and MSC Air Cargo brings immense knowledge and experience to help us achieve those goals,“ said Stavros Evangelakakis, Chairman, CCA, and Head of Global Healthcare, Cargolux.
“We are confident that we will benefit, not only from MSC Air Cargo’s great insight but also its high profile to encourage others collaborate with the CCA in its pursuit of greater efficiencies throughout the cool chain.”
CCA will hold its next meeting in Luxembourg in April, where new members will be voted onto the Board.
The Puerto Rico Life Sciences Air Cargo Community, working with Rotate, developers of the Community’s data dashboard, is predicting year-on-year growth of 24 per cent in life sciences exports over the next three years.
The Community’s temperature-controlled exports are predicted to increase annually by 30 per cent for the next three years, with a further 14 per cent annual increase predicted in the export of medical devices.
The statistics are drawn from a report by Boston Consulting Group and from the Community’s data dashboard, which aggregates data sources such as air cargo imports and exports, and air trade demand between Puerto Rico and the U.S.
Rotate is an air cargo consulting, data, and software specialist, and has worked with the Community to provide its members with valuable insights into the Puerto Rican air cargo market.
“Since its inception in 2023, the Puerto Rico Life Sciences Air Cargo Community has been driving quality, spearheading training initiatives, and hosting conferences, such as our Community Meeting, to foster collaboration between members,” said Jonas van Stekelenburg, Advisor, Departamento de Desarrollo Económico y Comercio (DDEC).
“These findings are a testament to the Community’s progress, the tremendous work and dedication of its members, and a true indication of the potential for growth throughout our pharma operations.”
Rotate presented its findings during a presentation at the Community’s meeting in February, which was held at Luis Muños Marin International Airport (SJU) with delegates from over 40 companies.
Representatives of the Community will be participating in IATA’s CNS Partnership Conference, taking place on 16-19th April in Dallas, USA.
For more information about the Puerto Rico Life Sciences Air Cargo Community and its initiatives, please visit prlifesciencehub.org, or contact hello@prlifescienceshub.org.
Hermes Logistics Technologies’ (HLT) latest cloud-based Hermes SaaS Ecosystem is set to roll out across CACC Cargolinx’s operations at Cairo International Airport in time for summer 2024.
Following a successful 12-year collaboration with HLT, the new agreement will see the cargo-specialised ground handler upgrade its cargo management system by migrating to Hermes 5 SaaS.
In addition, CACC Cargolinx will benefit from several integrations and solutions from the Hermes pay-as-you-go Ecosystem, designed to drive further efficiencies for the company – Hermes Business Intelligence, Hermes Track & Trace and Hermes Integration (API).
“We have undertaken a very thorough scoping study with CACC Cargolinx, deploying our air cargo experts to uncover not only the company’s existing requirements but also those expected in the future, and we have tailored our solution, ensuring it is future-proofed,” said Yuval Baruch, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), HLT.
“This project demonstrates our commitment to collaborating with our customers and our detailed approach to SaaS migrations, particularly when it comes to factoring in future innovation – it all comes down to delivering greater operational efficiency that will support business growth for the longest possible term.”
HLT has worked closely with CACC Cargolinx to assess the business’ requirements and deliver a tailored, future-proofed solution for the organisation.
The upgrade will see the company further digitalise its evolving operating environment, address all existing process gaps, and implement best-practice approaches to address anticipated future needs for its operations in Cairo and beyond.
The commitment from CACC Cargolinx is the latest in a series of confirmed migrations to Hermes 5 SaaS, as the technology provider rolls out its latest CMS and its Ecosystem of cargo management solutions across the globe.
“CACC Cargolinx is committed to delivering advanced logistics operations at Cairo International Airport, and our investment in the Hermes Ecosystem represents a significant step forward in our digitalisation roadmap, said Ahmed Fahmy, Chief Technology Officer, CACC Cargolinx.
“We are committed to providing our customers with the most efficient and reliable cargo handling services possible, and the Hermes Ecosystem will empower us to achieve that goal and further solidify our position as a leader in the air cargo handling industry.
“HLT’s cloud-based SaaS ecosystem will allow us to drive even greater efficiencies for our airline customers both here in Cairo and beyond. The end-to-end solution integrates easily with both our existing and planned systems and we expect the Business Intelligence add-on to provide a more robust foundation for us to take another step forward with our predictive capacities on operational and commercial matters.”
Hermes 5 SaaS brings HLT’s latest function-rich cargo management system into the cloud and provides access to the rest of HLT’s Ecosystem of cargo management solutions, including API (application programming interface) capabilities, apps for Business Intelligence, Track & Trace, and a Learning Management System.
Trans Global Projects (TGP) has made three new key appointments to its team based in Bremen, Germany, in order to bolster its operational capacity following a period of strong growth and expansion.
Morten Guba and Nicholas Schubert have both joined as Project Managers, while Knuth Meinardus has joined as Sales Manager – with the three new hires adding decades of experience to the team.
Andreas Menzel, Managing Director – Germany, TGP, said: “We made a strategic decision to grow both our Bremen operational and sales team as a result of the continuous growth we have seen over the last couple of years.
“These three new appointments greatly enhance our project management capacity, expanding our ability to handle bigger, more complex projects while capitalising on our recent expansion in regions such as North and South America.
“Their extensive project management expertise and deep understanding of the Asian and European markets means our Bremen team is now even more well equipped to drive TGP’s future successes.”
Morten Guba and Nicholas Schubert bring with them 23 years and 21 years of experience respectively, with in-depth knowledge and experience from the markets of Germany, China, Japan, and Southeast Asia.
Knuth Meinardus decided to re-enter the workforce after retiring early at the end of last year, having worked in shipping and logistics since 1982, and will be supporting the sales and pricing team in Germany with new tenders.
“I would like to welcome these three new appointments to the team, which means the Bremen team, which moved into a new office last year, has doubled in size in just two years,” added Colin Charnock, Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO), TGP.
“These hires further outline TGP’s ongoing global expansion plans, which is being executed strategically to ensure full readiness to meet future market demand.”
Malta: Challenge Handling is set for an extraordinary year ahead as it unveils ambitious projections for 2024. Anticipating a record-breaking milestone, Challenge Handling forecasts handling an impressive 320,000 tonnes of cargo, marking a significant leap forward in its operational prowess.
Bolstering its commitment to excellence, Challenge Handling proudly announces strategic collaborations with esteemed partners, including MSC Air Cargo, Georgian Airlines and Coyne Airways, in addition to its longstanding partnerships with Network Airline Services, Magma and Eurocargo.
These partnerships not only signify a strengthening of global ties but also underscore the company’s dedication to providing unparalleled services. Additionally, Challenge Handling is set to support Challenge Group’s expanding fleet which will include four new freighters.
Challenge Handling is also actively seeking third-party customers to benefit from its integrated and tailored air cargo handling solutions. This remarkable combination positions Challenge Handling at the forefront of innovation and growth.
“Positioned at the forefront of Europe’s logistical landscape, Challenge Handling embodies cutting-edge infrastructure. In the upcoming year, 2024, we anticipate reaching new heights as we project a historic milestone in cargo handling and forge strategic partnerships. As we make substantial investments to better serve our customers, we solidify our position as the go-to GHA in and out of Europe.” declares David Alexis, General Manager of Challenge Handling.
To support such exceptional growth, Challenge Handling goes big on technological enhancements. Two apps will be launched: the Truck Slot Booking Application and the Operational Handling Application will facilitate and improve live data capture.
In addition, truck loading software will speed up the handling of perishables, and 24/7 digital live tracking and monitoring of ramp activities will help to identify areas of improvement and enable fast action in case of irregularities. These efficiency measures are complemented by fast, round-the-clock customs clearance at Liège.
Technological enhancements are also planned in Challenge Handling’s security processes. They include biometric and face recognition access control, 24/7 security CCTV monitoring, and a new integrity test as part of the recruitment process.
Challenge Handling will also be investing in electrical cars on the ramp, electrical tractors and other greener GPU equipment this year.
Melbourne, Australia: Melbourne-based drone logistics startup Gap Drone has announced several high-caliber partnerships across the Australian industry, as it prepares to build a cutting-edge long-range Uncrewed Aerial System (UAS) for regional freight delivery.
Key partners include Swinburne University’s Aerostructures Innovation Research (AIR) Hub, NOVA Systems, the Federal Government Cooperative Research Centre (iMove) and Australia Post. Gap Drone has also recently secured equity-free funding from a major Australian partner, with more details to be revealed in due course.
Additionally, the company has garnered the support of the former Chairman of Australia’s aviation regulator CASA, Tony Mathews, who has also joined the company as Corporate Advisor, to ensure Gap Drone’s product and the regulatory framework it will operate in are fit for purpose.
Within 15 months, Gap Drone will build its first market-leading UAS prototype model, and begin initial operations flying cargo, produce, parcels, and medical supplies to Australia’s most remote communities.
The manufacturing process will be supported by the expert engineers of AIR Hub, whose engineers have previously contributed to some of the country’s largest military and civilian aviation projects, including the Loyal Wingman MQ-28, and Airspeeder.
“We are thrilled to announce our new partnerships with Swinburne University’s AIR Hub, NOVA Systems, and Federal Government CRC iMove, which will together propel forward our mission to revolutionise freight logistics by 2025,” said Gap Drone CEO and co-founder Liesl Haris.
“As an Australian-owned company, we are looking to embrace the bountiful expertise, resources, and opportunities that Australia has to offer in the aviation, engineering, and logistics arenas, and put Australian drone technologies on the global map,” Haris said.
“AIR Hub has given us access to some of the country’s best and brightest in aeronautical engineering, and we are excited to roll out and launch our first prototype, using only the most advanced drone technologies and capabilities, in 2025.”
While Gap Drone’s product is being designed with Australian technological ingenuity at the helm, it is also being developed with regional and rural Australian communities in mind.
“Our drone delivery network will increase regular access to post, produce, and resources for remote Australian communities and First Nations communities, and we will do this while producing up to 85% less carbon emissions than traditional road and air delivery transport options,” Haris said.
“We see this as a truly symbiotic relationship and we are proud of the strong backing and high-level partnerships at such an early stage which speak to the strength of our model. Together, we are defining the future of safe autonomous drone operation capabilities in Australia,” Haris added.
Meanwhile, Gap Drone COO and Co-Founder Benet Hare announced the appointment of former Press Attaché of the Philippine Embassy to Australia, Eduardo Burgos Jr., as Gap Drone Philippine Director.
Hare told Burgos, a former journalist, that Gap Drone intends to put up an Assembly Plant for its UAS in the Philippines under a Joint Venture Agreement.
“Gap Drone sees the Philippines as a strategic location to assemble Gap Drone’s UAS and can serve as an important entry point to other countries in Asia and in the West. More importantly, Gap Drone is fully aware of the availability of a highly competent English speaking workforce for both non-skilled and skilled in the Philippines. It is truly an exciting year for all of us,” Hare said.
As per revenue impact firm MarketsandMarkets, the Cargo Drones Market is projected to grow from an estimated US$0.6 Billion in 2022 to US$9.4 Billion in 2030, at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 38.6% from 2022 to 2030.