Scan Global Logistics’ (SGL) growth journey continues with the strengthening of its Canadian operation. The addition of ITN Logistics Group (ITN) to the network will significantly enhance SGL’s service offerings and footprint in Canada.
ITN Logistics Group is a leading privately owned Canadian freight forwarder offering a full suite of global logistics solutions across transport modes. The acquisition of ITN will strengthen SGL’s Canadian operations by bringing additional scale, locations and increased market share.
Allan Melgaard, Global CEO of SGL, says: ‘Acquiring ITN is a strategic move that enhances our presence in Canada and North America. We have worked with ITN for many years, and the ITN organisation’s focus on the customer, as well as their entrepreneurial spirit, aligns very well with ours. It will be a delight to welcome all the skilled talent with deep industry expertise to our organisation.’
ITN is headquartered in the Toronto area, with four locations in Canada, and employs more than 250 employees. Last year, the company generated an annual revenue in excess of CAD 170m. Services include import and export within air and ocean freight, customs brokerage, inland transportation, transborder trucking and consolidation services, warehousing, project forwarding and distribution offerings.
Monica Kennedy, Major Shareholder and President of ITN explains why ITN chose to be acquired by SGL: ‘Our customers and employees have always been the foundation of our success. It was essential to find a partner that shares our values and vision – SGL is a perfect cultural and strategic fit, ensuring continued growth and care for our team and customers.’
The Canadian market
The Canadian freight forwarding market, estimated at USD 20,9 billion (2023), is fragmented and dominated by large global players. Road freight accounts for the largest portion, the US being Canada’s number one trading partner.
The trade between Canada and the United States is highly significant (approx. USD 800 billion in 2022) and a strong presence in both countries is instrumental in offering global freight solutions to our customers, both local and international.
‘By expanding our footprint in the North American region, we set the foundation for accelerating our growth in the region and we look forward to offering our customers ITN’s portfolio of services‘, says Steen Christensen, Regional CEO for North America at SGL.
The transaction is subject to anti-trust approval from the Canadian authorities, and closing is expected during Q1 2025.
Air New Zealand is playing a crucial role in connecting Aotearoa’s high-quality fresh produce with global markets, especially during the holiday season, according to Anne Dunne, General Manager of Cargo.
“We have an exceptional fresh produce market in Aotearoa, and it’s a privilege to connect their high-quality products with global markets, especially at this time of year,” Dunne said.
Cherries and Lamb Exports
The airline is helping deliver some of New Zealand’s finest exports, including premium lamb and cherries. “We like to think of ourselves as Santa’s little helpers, with a cargo hold full of seasonal goodies,” Dunne added.
Cherries are particularly popular in Asia leading up to Chinese New Year, symbolizing good luck and prosperity. “With 80% of New Zealand’s cherry crop exported during this period, we want to make sure no cherry is left behind,” Dunne said.
Air New Zealand will support exporters in moving up to one million kilograms of cherries to markets like Taipei, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and North America. Partnerships with other airlines also facilitate cherry exports to Vietnam.
Meat and Seafood Shipments
In addition to cherries, Air New Zealand Cargo collaborates with farmers to export grass-fed meat to key markets in time for Christmas. “Much of the exports have already made their way to markets like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and Zurich,” Dunne noted. In November alone, the airline transported around 120,000 kilograms of lamb and beef.
Seafood is another hot commodity, with 1.3 billion kilograms annually heading to Australia. Salmon, tuna, and shellfish are among the delicacies being exported.
“Whether it’s lamb for a roast, cherries for a celebration, or seafood for a summer feast, it’s a privilege to partner with Kiwi exporters to deliver on our purpose of connecting Kiwi and the products they produce to the world,” Dunne said.
EUROCONTROL has released its long-term forecasts for flights and CO2 emissions, projecting significant growth in European aviation over the next 25 years. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact, flights in Europe are expected to reach 15.4 million by 2050, a 52% increase from 2023 levels and 39% more than in 2019.
The aviation sector is committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, aligning with European and ICAO objectives. Key strategies include the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), advancements in fleet and technology, and modernization of airports and ATM operations. Out-of-sector measures will also be necessary to meet these goals, with financial incentives and regulatory support playing crucial roles.
Traffic Scenarios
In the most likely scenario, the European Civil Aviation Conference Area (ECAC) will see 15.4 million flights by 2050, with an average annual growth rate of 1.6% from 2023 to 2050. Major airports operating near capacity will continue to pressure the network.
Path to Net-Zero
Achieving net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050 will require significant efforts. Fleet renewal with fuel-efficient aircraft, development of electric and hydrogen-powered planes, and innovations in airport and ATM infrastructure are essential. SAFs are promising but require increased production and cost reduction. Out-of-sector measures, such as carbon offsetting and capture, will be critical to bridging the gap to net-zero.
CO2 Emissions Forecast
Without significant measures, ECAC flights could emit 271 Mt CO2 by 2050. To reach net-zero, savings are needed from:
The remaining 101 Mt (37%) must be addressed through out-of-sector measures.
Joost van Doesburg will step down from his role as head of cargo at Royal Schiphol Group on February 1, 2025.
The decision follows “unjust defamatory allegations” made against him. Patricia Vitalis, Schiphol’s executive director, stated, “We respect his decision but deeply regret it… This has created an undesirable situation for him.”
Van Doesburg led significant changes, including overhauling the Cargonaut system and improving cargo volumes. His tenure was marked by challenges related to staff shortages, slot reductions, and increasing fees at Schiphol.
Global air cargo demand showed no signs of slowing down in November as volumes recorded a 13th consecutive month of double-digit growth and load factors hit their highest level since April 2022, according to the latest market analysis by Xeneta.
Demand rose +10% year-on-year in November, fuelled by the continued boom in e-commerce. This, coupled with only a marginal +2% growth in air cargo capacity, contributed to global air cargo spot rates (valid for one month) also reaching their highest level in nearly two years at USD 2.90 per kilo, a sixth consecutive month of double-digit year-on-year growth.
The air cargo market’s strong monthly performance in 2024 had led to hopes of a ‘peak of all peaks’ in Q4 from some sectors of the market. Niall van de Wouw, Xeneta’s Chief Airfreight Officer, however, says the industry has done well to avoid it.
“The peak of all peaks should not be a goal. It should be avoided because of the imbalance it creates between winners and losers. 2024 had all the ingredients to see crazy peak season rates but the fact we haven’t seen this situation develop is another sign of the maturity we previously referenced in the global air cargo market. What we witnessed in 2023 was a mess and a valuable lesson. In 2024, we are seeing those lessons put into practice,” he said.
“People should not be disappointed. We are witnessing a much more grown-up air cargo market based on better allocation of resources and better terms and conditions between all parties involved. The peak in 2023, in comparison, saw a shortage of capacity and rates going crazy, all at the expense of shippers,” van de Wouw added. “Why would we want to go back there again? The supply chain pressure of a peak of all peaks would have hurt consumers and put unnecessary restraints on relationships. It would have been opportunistic for short-term gains.”
Van de Wouw said the final months of the year have seen the air freight industry “take control of its own destiny.”
While some observers have indicated a muted end-of-year air cargo market, van de Wouw called for perspective.
He said: “This is an air cargo industry that is currently firing on all cylinders, but which is not out of control. November’s data shows a market where volumes were +10% higher than an extremely busy corresponding peak month last year, and rates have risen, too.
“The closing months of 2024 could have been very messy again for shippers, but we are not hearing that. That’s not because the volumes are not there, or the flights are not full. It is because everything, overall, is being managed better. The industry should take a lot of credit for that.”
Global air cargo spot rates remain above seasonal rates
This persistent supply-demand imbalance of 2024 pushed the dynamic load factor in November to 63% – its highest level in over 30 months. Dynamic load factor is Xeneta’s measurement of capacity utilisation based on volume and weight of cargo flown alongside available capacity.
This level of demand has strengthened the negotiating position of carriers and seen global air cargo spot rates remain above seasonal rates (valid for over one month) since late November 2023.
In terms of month-on-month trends, this year’s peak season, however, has been less intense than last year’s. Thanks to carriers’ proactive capacity management, the global air cargo spot rate increased only +12% between early September (the start of peak season) and the week ending 1 December, compared to a +25% surge during the same period last year.
This trend is particularly evident in the outbound Asia market. As carriers have shifted capacity to accommodate surging cargo demand, November spot rates from Northeast Asia experienced moderate growth. Its spot rates to Europe rose by +13% month-on-month to USD 5.09 per kg, while spot rates to North America increased +5% to USD 5.20 per kg.
Additionally, spot rates from Southeast Asia showed mixed results, with spot rates to Europe remaining flat at USD 4.15 per kg and North America declining -3% to USD 6.05 per kg. The decline in the latter was driven by easing volumes, following spot rates exceeding last year’s peak season levels since late May 2024.
Meanwhile, the Transatlantic market experienced more dramatic freight rate increases as cargo capacity moved elsewhere at the end of the summer passenger travel season. Europe to North America spot rates climbed by +46% from the previous month to USD 2.72 per kg, which is in contrast to the just +9% month-on-month growth during the same period a year ago.
Similarly, Europe to Latin America rates rose by +23% to USD 4.58 per kg. In Brazil, a five-day embargo in early November in Sao Paulo, South America’s largest cargo airport, coupled with ongoing nationwide digital customs delays caused by Brazilian Customs’ strike since 26 November, may push air cargo spot rates even higher in December. Shippers are likely to resort to air freight to avoid customs clearance delays.
“Personally, I think the air cargo industry should be proud it has avoided a ‘peak of all peaks’ because this is the basis for greater market stability. I hope this will enable everyone to head into their well-earned Christmas and New Year holidays with a sense of satisfaction, and it enables them to relax and enjoy time with their families and friends,” van de Wouw said.
“In 2024, the industry has shown its maturity. We must wait and see if this holds when the market goes down, but I don’t see that happening just yet.”
dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider, has become the first ground handler in Europe to receive the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) environmental management certification. The recognition highlights the company’s dedication to implementing robust sustainability initiatives.
IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) is a certification programme developed to independently assess the commitment of aviation stakeholders such as airlines, airports, cargo handling facilities, freight forwarders, and ramp handlers, to continuously improve their environmental and sustainability performance.
IATA’s comprehensive evaluation rigorously assessed dnata’s sustainability practices and efforts across its extensive operations at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS).
Jan van Anrooy, Managing Director, dnata Netherlands, said: “We are proud to be the first ground handler to earn the prestigious IEnvA certification in Europe. This accomplishment reflects our team’s dedication to environmental efficiency and our consistent efforts to contribute to dnata’s global decarbonisation journey. We will continue investing in infrastructure, equipment and process improvement to further reduce our environmental footprint.”
Rafael Schvartzman, Regional Vice President Europe, IATA, said: “We congratulate dnata Netherlands on becoming the first ground and cargo handler in Europe to achieve full IEnvA registration. This significant milestone demonstrates dnata Schiphol’s commitment to sustainable aviation and environmental excellence. By adhering to global environmental standards and best practices, dnata Schiphol is setting a strong example for the industry. We look forward to working together to further advance sustainable aviation practices.”
Consistent investments in operations to enhance environmental efficiency
In recent years, dnata Netherlands has significantly invested in the electrification of its ground handling fleet to reduce emissions. Currently, more than 70% of its ground support equipment fleet is powered by electricity or solar energy, with the remainder operating on 100% Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO100) biofuel.
dnata’s newest facility, dnata Cargo City Amsterdam, was also designed with a laser focus on sustainability. Scheduled to open in 2025, the facility will be equipped with solar panels, electric vehicle charging stations and air source heat pumps. The cargo centre will be BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) certified.
dnata Netherlands: a leading ground and cargo services provider at Amsterdam Schiphol
dnata is a leading provider of ground and cargo handling services in Amsterdam. It serves 37 airlines with a team of 1,000 dedicated aviation professionals, who handle 10,000 flights and move 550,000 tonnes of cargo annually.
Significant improvement in environmental performance globally
Globally, dnata recently reported significant improvements across key environmental performance metrics for the financial year 2023-24. As a result of its consistent approach and initiatives, the company cut the carbon intensity of its operations by over 8%, 22% and 26% across its airport operations, travel and catering businesses, respectively. All data has been validated by Verifavia, an independent accredited environmental verification and auditing body.
In addition to The Netherlands, dnata also earned the IEnvA certification for its diverse portfolio of businesses in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Dubai, UAE: Intersec 2025, the world’s premier event mapping the future in security, safety and fire protection, will address how advancements in technology and data are transforming the future of law enforcement and public safety across the Middle East region through its inaugural Intersec Policing Conference.
Held from 15 – 16 January 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the conference will convene over 50 expert speakers to showcase policing best practices from around the world.
As law enforcement agencies worldwide confront challenges from cyber threats to financial crimes, the Intersec Policing Conference will serve as a pivotal platform for innovation and collaboration, addressing critical issues and solutions in the evolving landscape of public safety.
The conference will feature a distinguished lineup of law enforcement thought leaders from around the world, including H.E. Major General Pilot Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Commander in Chief of Abu Dhabi Police; Aileen Yap, Assistant Director of the Anti-Scam Command, Singapore Police Force; Ali Ba’Alawi, Chief of the Financial Intelligence Unit at the UAE Financial Intelligence Unit; Nick Court, Assistant Director of IFCACC Strategy and Capability at INTERPOL; and Omar S. Saad, Head of Strategy and Innovation for the Metropolitan Police, who will share insights into the future of law enforcement innovation.
Speaking ahead of the conference, Major Mohamed Al Abdulla, Head of the Financial Crimes Division at Bahrain’s Ministry of Interior, highlighted the use of data and technology for combatting scams: “Most scams will increasingly involve AI and robots, with fraudsters utilizing advanced tools to conceal their IP addresses and locations. They will transfer stolen funds through hot or cold wallets and use mixers to obscure the origins of the cryptocurrency. To combat this, law enforcement is investing in tools that can prevent such crimes and predict scams before they occur by leveraging the right data and ensuring proper integration between relevant entities.”
Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays a crucial role in detecting and preventing financial crimes. AI systems can analyze vast amounts of transaction data to identify anomalies indicative of fraudulent activities. According to PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PwC), incorporating AI into financial crime programs enhances the precision and effectiveness of fraud detection, enabling businesses to stay ahead of evolving fraudulent tactics.
Grant Tuchten, Portfolio Director at Intersec organiser Messe Frankfurt Middle East, said: “As technologies evolve, so must the strategies and tools employed by our law enforcement agencies. The inaugural Intersec Policing Conference will showcase policing best practices from around the world, offering actionable insights for creating safe, secure, and smart cities for all.”
Law enforcement professionals will explore forward-thinking conference topics such as policing in a digital era, proactive and productive policing, the future of road safety, strategic automation in policing, drone operations and quantum-led crime, to name a few.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, Intersec 2025 will offer a platform for networking, conducting business, and showcasing innovative technology and innovations.
Intersec 2025 will host 1,200 exhibitors from 60 countries, with prominent participants in the Homeland Security & Policing sector showcasing products and solutions across the entire supply chain. Examples include Drone and Anti-Drone solutions from AEE Aviation and DJI, cutting-edge video surveillance by Genetec, a wide range of security solutions from Transguard Group, and advanced aviation security technologies from Garrett, Ceia, Astrophysics, and Rapiscan. This sector will highlight transformative technologies shaping law enforcement across the Middle East and beyond.
Other product sections at Intersec 2025 include Commercial & Perimeter Security, Fire & Rescue, Safety & Health and Cyber Security, offering tailored solutions for each industry segment under one roof.
Dubai, UAE: In a bid to promote women’s sports, evision, the media and entertainment arm of global technology group e&, together with local distributor Magmedia and international streaming company, JungoTV is announcing the launch of the All Women’s Sports Network (AWSN). This dedicated channel will showcase an extensive range of women’s sporting events, on TV by e& and STARZ ON – its free ad-supported streaming platform.
AWSN is an international channel that features a diverse offering of live women’s sports that reflect the network’s belief that female athletes deserve to be seen, and every sport deserves recognition. The free ad-supported streaming platform from evision and AWSN aims to further elevate the visibility and accessibility of women’s sports in the region.
The network was created by EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar and Tony award) winner, producer, and advocate for equality Whoopi Goldberg and JungoTV. Goldberg has passionately been advocating for women’s equality throughout her life.
AWSN is a significant milestone in the evolution of women’s sports in the region, and it is poised to become a leading destination for fans of women’s athletics.
evision has also made significant strides in promoting women’s cricket by offering free broadcasts of major events such as the WPL and the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup on TV by e& and STARZ ON. This strategic move has led to increased viewership and fan engagement, particularly among diverse demographics. By providing dedicated coverage and highlighting female athletes, evision is actively working towards a more equitable and inclusive sports landscape.
Sunil Joy, Head of Content, evision, added, “Women’s sports are inherently captivating and rich with talent. At evision, we recognize that the key to elevating the engagement levels lies in enhancing visibility and we are dedicated to bridging this visibility gap by offering a diverse array of women’s sports across the multiple platforms we operate. By partnering with AWSN, we aim to expand the reach of women’s sports and inspire a new generation of fans in MENA.
The new AWSN channel will offer a comprehensive range of sports content, including live matches, highlights, and exclusive shows for sports like football, basketball, tennis, cricket, and others. The channel will also feature original programming such as documentaries, interviews, and analysis, providing in-depth coverage of women’s sports.
Magnus Simons, AWSN spokesperson in the MENA region and owner of local distributor Magmedia International, said, “The launch of AWSN aligns with the growing trend of increased media coverage and viewership for women’s sports. According to recent studies, the percentage of coverage dedicated to women’s sports has increased significantly, driven by the growth of streaming and social media. This suggests a growing demand for women’s sports content, and evision’s AWSN is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.”
Hermes Logistics Technologies (HLT) has successfully completed a major digitalisation project for CACC Cargolinx at Cairo International Airport.
The collaboration saw HLT upgrade the current Cargo Management System at Cairo International Airport last week and migrate CACC Cargolinx operations to Hermes’ latest Cloud-based SaaS service.
The final stage of the project sees the launch of the Hermes Business Intelligence and Track & Trace apps. These add-on apps from the Hermes Ecosystem will provide valuable data insights and detailed shipment information for agents and shippers, in real time, with extensive drill-down options.
Using HLT’s custom-built APIs, all of the Hermes Ecosystem solutions have been integrated with existing systems at Cairo International Airport.
This project marks a significant milestone in CACC Cargolinx’s digitalisation journey, transforming its cargo handling capabilities in Cairo into a fully automated and integrated operation.
Staff are using Hermes’ award-winning Learning Management System (LMS) for training, enabling them to get up to speed quickly and make the most of the new functionality and services available through the upgrade.
“This project is an excellent example of how the Hermes SaaS Ecosystem works to enhance operations and drive digitalisation in the air cargo industry,” said Yuval Baruch, CEO of Hermes Logistics Technologies.
“CACC Cargolinx has demonstrated tremendous commitment to digitalisation, and the Hermes SaaS Ecosystem will empower them to operate with greater efficiency, agility, and visibility, ultimately providing a better experience for their customers.”
“We have worked with HLT for over a decade, and this shift to the Hermes SaaS Ecosystem marks a significant milestone in our digital transformation journey,” said Ahmed Fahmy, CTO of CACC Cargolinx.
“Hermes 5 SaaS will streamline our operations, enhance efficiency, and provide valuable insights to drive future growth. The upcoming launch of the Hermes Business Intelligence and Hermes Track & Trace apps will further solidify our position as an industry leader. We are committed to leveraging technology to deliver exceptional service to our customers and partners.”
Silk Way Group held an unveiling ceremony during COP29 to announce plans for a significant infrastructure project: the development of a new cargo airport in the Alat Free Economic Zone.
This ambitious initiative aims to enhance the group’s operational capabilities, foster growth, and leverage the zone’s strategic potential to increase business prospects and efficiencies.
The new airport will operate under the Silk Way Alat Free Economic Zone Company, a registered entity established to advance Silk Way Group’s logistics and infrastructural initiatives in the region. This corporate designation underlines Silk Way Group’s commitment to structured growth in keeping with the Alat Free Economic Zone’s objectives, ensuring the project’s integration with Azerbaijan’s national economic development strategy.
The project includes the construction of individual forwarder warehouses, state-of-the-art perishables airside facilities, and modern office buildings. This comprehensive plan aligns with the dynamic needs of the logistics industry, ensuring adaptability and innovation in operations.
A highlight of the ceremony was a speech by Mr. Sander Doves, Director of TKH Airport Solutions, a key technology partner in the project. Mr. Doves emphasized the implementation of sustainable technologies and energy-saving solutions, specifically focusing on CEDD AGL, TKH’s advanced airfield ground lighting technology to be used in the construction of the runway. The company’s contribution underscores a commitment to eco-friendly and efficient practices that align with the overarching goals of COP29 and sustainable development.
This partnership and the ambitious scope of the airport will create new opportunities for Silk Way Group while contributing significantly to the economic growth of both Azerbaijan and the region as a whole.
Designed as an advanced logistics hub, the airport will include 18 aircraft stands, a 4,000-meter runway and taxiway as well as an air traffic control center, fuel and fire services, and other related amenities. The project is not only envisioned to enhance the transportation capabilities of the country but also to stimulate the comprehensive economic development of the surrounding region. By doing so, it aspires to enhance the quality of life and wellbeing of the local population, contributing to broader socio-economic progress.
In line with a commitment to environmental responsibility, construction of the new facility will incorporate advanced sustainable technologies, including the utilization of alternative energy sources, positioning the cargo airport as a beacon of eco-friendly infrastructure.
Upon completion of the project in 2026, the wider Alat Free Economic Zone will become a prominent transit hub, featuring integrated logistics infrastructure. The zone’s facilities will have access to the Baku International Sea Trade Port and extensive railway and motorway networks as well as to the newly built airport, collectively enhancing Azerbaijan’s transportation and distribution capabilities.
Mr. Zaur Akhundov, President of Silk Way Group, expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting: “The establishment of the new cargo airport in the Alat Free Economic Zone represents a significant milestone in the country’s history, signifying a shift towards new opportunities that will effectively address the increasing local and global demand for freight transport. This initiative not only bolsters our standing within the Middle Corridor but also opens up new avenues for growth, offering promising prospects for our business, as well as for our valued partners and investors.”
Jawad Dbila, CEO of Silk Way Alat Free Economic Zone Company, also emphasized the importance of this project, stating: “The new cargo airport will serve as a pillar of the Alat Free Economic Zone, transforming our vision for Azerbaijan’s logistics and transportation capabilities into reality. As an official Silk Way entity, our focus is on integrating sustainable practices and advanced infrastructure to enhance connectivity, attract international partnerships, and reinforce Azerbaijan’s role as a transit logistics hub. We look forward to witnessing this project’s impact on our region’s economic landscape and the opportunities it will generate.”
Erik Velderman, CEO of TKH Airport Solutions, commented on the collaboration: “We are pleased that Silk Way has selected TKH Airport Solutions and CEDD Airfield Ground Lighting technology for the new CAT III Cargo Airport. Our state-of-the-art low voltage CEDD technology enables significant energy savings for the airport and supports the sustainable transformation of airport operations. We look forward to contributing to reducing the environmental impact of air cargo.”
Technology has made the world smaller and faster.Real time communication with people from all over the world at different time zones through phones and gadgets
