Purchase, N.Y., July 20, 2023 – Atlas Air, Inc., a subsidiary of Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc., today announced it has taken delivery of a Boeing 777-200 Freighter, which it will operate on behalf of its customer MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company SA, as part of a previously announced long-term ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance, insurance) agreement.
This is the second of four Boeing 777-200 Freighters that Atlas Air will operate for MSC, which will complement the existing weekly service for the world’s largest shipping company. Currently, MSC is offering around-the-world service to airports such as Mexico City (NLU), Indianapolis (IND), Liege (LGG), Seoul (ICN) and Xiamen (XMN).
“Building on the successful launch of MSC’s Air Cargo Solution, we are very pleased to welcome this second 777 delivery as part of our long-term strategic partnership. We expect our remaining two 777 aircraft to be delivered in the fourth quarter,” said Michael Steen, Chief Executive Officer, Atlas Air Worldwide. “We value the trust that MSC has in Atlas Air to support the expanding requirements of their global network, and are excited to leverage our expertise and industry-leading solutions.”
“The delivery of our second MSC branded aircraft represents another strategic component towards our offering that further connects trade lanes for our customers. In partnership with Atlas Air, we have built a solid foundation on which to expand our air cargo solution” said Jannie Davel, Senior Vice President Air Cargo at MSC.
Riyadh, July 19, 2023: Saudia Cargo, a leading provider of air cargo services, has signed a strategic agreement with Jan de Rijk Co., a prominent European transportation and logistics company, to enhance its services and expand its reach in Europe. The signing ceremony took place on the 19th of July, 2023, at Saudia Cargo’s headquarters in Jeddah, solidifying the collaboration between the two industry leaders.
Under this agreement, Saudia Cargo will leverage Jan de Rijk’s extensive trucking network, which comprises a fleet of specialist vehicles, to bolster its operations and strengthen its presence in Europe. Jan de Rijk Co., founded in 1971, is a top provider of European transportation, distribution services, and supply chain management solutions. The company’s expertise and in-depth knowledge of key industries make it an ideal partner for furthering Saudia Cargo’s ambitious expansion plans.
Jan de Rijk Logistics operates in five business units: international transport, Benelux distribution and last-mile deliveries, contract logistics, road freight forwarding, and intermodal transport. Over the years, the company has focused on continuous development and optimization to achieve a leading position in its desired vital market segments. With a solid commitment to customer-centric solutions, Jan de Rijk Co. has gained a reputation for delivering efficient and reliable services tailored to the unique needs of its clients.
Saudia Cargo’s collaboration with Jan de Rijk Co. marks a significant milestone in its growth strategy, enabling it to tap into new opportunities and further build up its European operations. Saudia Cargo aims to enhance its service offerings and deliver seamless end-to-end logistics solutions to its customers by utilizing Jan de Rijk’s extensive network and specialist vehicles.
“We are delighted to partner with Jan de Rijk Co. to extend our footprint in Europe and provide enhanced logistics services to our valuable customers,” said Teddy Zebitz, CEO of Saudia Cargo. “Jan de Rijk’s extensive experience and proven track record in the European transportation industry align perfectly with our business growth objectives. Besides, we both share same mission towards sustainability, which is an important issue for the air cargo industry, and air cargo carriers that adopt sustainable practices can help to protect the environment, improve safety, and enhance their brand reputation. Together, we will enhance our offering for innovative and efficient solutions that cater to the evolving needs of the regional and global market.”
Fred Westdijk, CEO of Jan de Rijk Co., expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “This agreement with Saudia Cargo presents a remarkable opportunity for both organizations. By combining our strengths, we will unlock new avenues for growth and better serve our customers. We look forward to a fruitful partnership and its mutual benefits.”
The agreement between Saudia Cargo and Jan de Rijk Co. demonstrates both companies’ commitment to providing exceptional logistics services and advancing the logistics industry. By merging their collective expertise, resources, and networks, Saudia Cargo and Jan de Rijk Co. are poised to achieve several vital milestones due to the collaboration.
The world’s leading air cargo carrier and disaster response nonprofit Airlink team up to coordinate shipments to several disaster-stricken countries around the world.
DOHA, Qatar – Since renewing its strong partnership in April 2022, Qatar Airways Cargo and Airlink have delivered 58 shipments on behalf of 22 organisations offering 2.1 million USD in transportation relief, mobilising 351 tonnes of humanitarian supplies to seventeen countries. This translates to an estimated 5.8 million people worldwide.
Much needed aid has been sent to several countries including Afghanistan, Pakistan, Philippines, Sudan, Sri Lanka, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Lebanon, Jordan, Bangladesh, Türkiye, and Syria. The types of cargo flown are medicines, medical supplies, hospital beds, solar equipment, nutritional supplements, water and sanitation supplies, tarps, blankets, hygiene kits, and food assistance.
The partnership with Qatar Airways Cargo also benefits Airlink’s nonprofit partners as well who assist global communities impacted by disasters and other humanitarian cities around the world.
As part of the renewed contract that is in effect until April 2025, the cargo carrier is expected to mobilize 500 tonnes of relief supplies free of charge.
Mr. Guillaume Halleux, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways said, “Partnerships are very crucial especially when they are for a noble cause. We are glad to support our trusted and qualified partner Airlink to transport humanitarian cargo, thereby impacting millions of lives globally. Airfreight plays a critical role in responding to crises and supporting the work of governments and NGOs around the world. With our extensive network, charter capabilities and extensive, young and modern fleet as well as support from our dedicated teams worldwide, we are able to support disaster-stricken areas swiftly.”
Steve Smith, Airlink President and CEO added: “We are deeply grateful to have the support of Qatar Airways Cargo; together we are bringing aid and hope to millions of people.. The reach of Qatar Airways Cargo network, and the commitment of the Qatar team, has made it possible for Airlink and our partner network of humanitarian organizations to greatly expand the number of places and people we can help.”
During the pandemic, Qatar Airways Cargo introduced its WeQare programme, its sustainability programme which consists of a series of positive and impactful actions based on the core pillars of sustainability – environment, society, economy and culture. The carrier has launched four chapters so far under this programme with more chapters to be launched in the coming months. Airlink has a strong Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) framework as well that perfectly aligns with Qatar Airways Cargo’s ESG framework.
Menzies Aviation, the leading service provider to airports and airlines, has expanded its presence in the Balkans by agreeing a majority stake in Cargo Handling Services Limited (CHS) at Sofia International Airport (SOF) in Bulgaria. The joint venture increases Menzies Aviation’s footprint in Europe to 50 airports in 17 countries.
Established in 2016, CHS provides a range of cargo services at SOF including warehousing, import and export handling, mail handling and temperature-controlled storage. CHS will benefit from being part of Menzies’ global network and will transition to the Menzies brand and its best-in-class standards and systems.
Sofia International Airport is located 5km from the centre of Bulgaria’s capital and largest city. It is the biggest international airport in the country with scheduled connections to all major European business centres, serving 21 airlines.
Miguel Gomez Sjunnesson, Executive Vice President Europe, Menzies Aviation, said: “CHS is a well-regarded cargo provider at Sofia Airport, which has potential for significant growth. Strategically, this investment supports our ambitions to accelerate growth by expanding our air cargo business and entering emerging aviation markets. We’re looking forward to working with our new partners and, in the long-term, increasing our market share at Sofia Airport.”
Tim Buisseret, Commercial Director, British Embassy Sofia, said: “We are delighted that Menzies Aviation has expanded their presence to Bulgaria, and we look forward to supporting them to develop their business. Bulgaria has great long-term prospects, Sofia is a key strategic location, and I’m sure that Menzies will succeed here.”
As it warms up in the Northern Hemisphere, Emirates SkyCargo is scaling up its cool chain capacity for perishables, preparing for a busy summer season of weddings and outdoor events. As the demand for decorative floral arrangements increases, May 2023 saw Emirates SkyCargo transport 3,590 tonnes of time- and temperature-sensitive fresh cut flowers, a 20% rise from the same period last year.
Ecuador and Kenya are the top two export origin locations; Ecuador in particular has experienced a steady rise in flower trade in recent years, increasing its exports with Emirates SkyCargo by 21% in May this year, compared to 2022. The Netherlands, a country that plays a major role in the world’s flower trade, remains in both the top three export origins and import locations. Other key import locations for this commodity include the UAE and Australia, with Saudi Arabia rounding out the top four.
Dennis Lister, Senior Vice President – Product and Innovation, Emirates SkyCargo, said, “We are seeing an increased demand for fresh flowers as the wedding season in the Northern Hemisphere reaches its peak, and a corresponding spike in demand for logistics capabilities to protect perishables. Leveraging our industry-leading temperature-controlled technology, facilities, equipment and expert personnel, Emirates Fresh continues to offer our global customers reliable freshness, whether it’s beautiful blooms for that special day or fresh produce for the garden barbeque. With 500 to 600 tonnes of perishables transported on Emirates SkyCargo flights every day, we are proud to be the partner of choice that connects the global agriculture community with their customers all over the world.”
22,500 tonnes of perishable commodities every month
Perishables are the carrier’s largest business by tonnage carried, uplifting an average of 22,500 tonnes of perishable commodities every month. Ranging from freshly picked mangoes from Pakistan, to salmon from Norway and brilliant blooms from Kenya, Emirates SkyCargo transports goods rapidly and efficiently across its global network of over 140 destinations.
Fresh cut flowers dominate as the leading perishable category transported by SkyCargo with chilled meat and fresh fruits rounding out the top three perishable product categories, as air cargo enables temperate-safe and rapid transit from farm to shop in as little as 24-48 hours.
Door-to-door cool chain delivered at scale via Dubai
As temperatures rise and summer produce is harvested, cool chain logistics play an essential role in keeping high-demand perishable produce fresh and high quality for consumers worldwide.
Emirates’ dedicated cool-chain handling capabilities have been developed with a focus on fast connection times and high-quality transfers. Its dual airport hub in Dubai is world’s largest and most technologically advanced cargo handling facility, offering a three-hour, air-to-air transfer service. Handling over 8,000 shipments per day, the facility has over 15,000m² of dedicated storage for temperature-sensitive goods, including perishables.
Uniquely positioned between east and west, approximately 1/3 of the world’s population can be served from Dubai within a 4-hour flight range. Emirates’ vast network of destinations, meanwhile, also give customers the choice of multiple flights per day to many locations across both freighter and passenger aircraft belly-hold capacity.
Emirates Fresh, SkyCargo’s perishable-oriented service offers three different options for customers to choose the appropriate level of temperature protection for their cargo. This ranges from produce with a higher tolerance for temperature fluctuations, to high-end perishables that require active cool dollies for ramp protection. Customers can track and trace their shipments and view temperature monitoring data online at every step, as well as make short-notice direct bookings, thanks to SkyCargo’s ecommerce platform.
Online logistics automation platform Raft has raised $30m to be used to develop new services and solutions.
The series B funding round was led by global VC investor Eight Roads with participation from existing investors Bessemer Venture Partners, Episode 1, and Dynamo Ventures, as well as Moguntia Capital.
The capital infusion will be used to develop and deploy automation products, improve data collaboration — including emissions and visibility data — and extend Raft’s market reach.
James Coombes, chief executive and co-founder, said: “We’ve always been clear about focusing on specific parts of the shipment lifecycle where automation has the highest return on investment.
“We recognized early on the pain points around accounts payable reconciliation and customs entry preparation, and we’ve since grown the product to help automate areas such as warehousing, booking confirmations, and more.
“We quickly understood that our customers don’t want separate solutions for each of these areas, they want one AI-platform that offers best-in-class automation across the length and breadth of their business.”
Raft helps forwarders apply AI to their data operations and customer interactions.
Quantum computing software company Quantum-South has launched advanced versions of its air cargo optimization solutions.
The air cargo optimization software developed by Quantum-South uses quantum algorithms with the aim of enabling air cargo companies to maximize loading efficiency in operations, increase profitability, and reduce costs.
The software intelligently considers factors such as maximum weight and length, center of gravity, shear, and the shape of the fuselage, ensuring compliance with all necessary restrictions.
Unit load device and pallet load optimization is one of the focus areas for the company. The software optimizes the cargo build-up process using precise dimensions and weight obtained at acceptance, resulting in an efficient utilization of cargo space and maximizing certain business rules like the priority of packages to be transported, said Quantum-South.
Aircraft load optimization is another issue tackled by the software, which is designed to intelligently optimize the aircraft load to ensure optimal utilization of resources, enhance operational efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.
Quantum-South’s software also addresses fuel consumption by optimizing the location of the center of mass (on the aircraft), which aims to result in cost savings and environmental benefits.
Rafael Sotelo, president and co-founder of Quantum-South, commented: “We are excited to introduce our enhanced air cargo optimization solutions powered by quantum inspired algorithms. With our innovative approach, we aim to transform the air cargo industry by helping companies increase revenues, reduce costs, and achieve operational excellence.”
Neo Air Group, the fast-growing cargo charter and aviation services provider, is continuing its expansion with two further appointments – bringing to seven the total of new key recruits for 2023 to date.
Nadin Schuck joins Neo as Sales Specialist, working in its recently-launched Airfreight department, which provides solutions exclusively for trade customers with shipments that are not large enough to justify part or full charter.
Her aviation services career to date includes both passenger and cargo, most recently in sales at cargo GSSA Euro Cargo Aviation GmbH. Prior to that, she was Secretary to the Executive Board and Administration Centre Manager for airport operator Flughafen Frankfurt-Hahn. Nadin has a degree in Marketing and is also qualified in air travel.
Fernanda Abe has taken up the new post of Time Critical Business Development Manager, in which she will focus on strengthening Neo’s On Board Courier and Time Critical offerings, ensuring they provide a comprehensive range of solutions to address customers’ needs.
Fernanda graduated in Tourism at a leading university in her native Brazil, after which she spent over six years in the events, travel and hospitality sectors, followed by a further five years in logistics and freight forwarding. Her more recent experience has centered on time critical cargo. With Japanese heritage, Fernanda is multi-lingual and has extensive experience working in global markets, where she developed strong customer relations skills.
Says Neo Joint Managing Director Adnan Duran: “Nadin and Fernanda are the latest in a series of recent appointments, representing a significant investment in strengthening our newer OBC and scheduled air cargo activities.
“They bring valuable skills and experience to our business, as well as further diversity and an improved gender balance. We are delighted to welcome them to our team and are excited about how they will help take our business to the next level.”
Sri Lanka-headquartered EFL Global has opened its first facility in the UK as it looks to cater for high-street retailer demand.
The Black Arrow warehouse was developed by Airport Industrial Property Unit Trust (AIPUT) and is located at the Blackthorne Point logistics campus close to Heathrow Airport.
EFL’s facility, which will create 35 new roles when fully operational, measures 2,579 sq m and will primarily handle stock imports for major high-street clothing retailers.
The building includes several environmental initiatives including roof-mounted photovoltaic panels and other Low and Zero Carbon technologies, which together will deliver a 30% reduction in CO₂ emissions over building regulation requirements.
EFL global president – Americas Region, Evan Rosen, said: “We are elated to expand our business and operations in England. EFL Global continues to invest in key regions that are most important to our clients, which includes strategic planning and expansions in the European region. This market is a critical part of our journey to provide unparalleled logistics and supply chain services across the globe.”
AIPUT fund manager Nick Smith added: “AIPUT is delighted to welcome EFL Global as our newest customer to our recently completed Black Arrow warehouse, West Heathrow. Collaboration is at the core of our culture, and through working closely and at speed with EFL Global, we are pleased to have met their needs and introduce an exciting new global freight forwarder to the UK logistics market.”
AIPUT’s existing customers at Blackthorne Point include UPS Supply Chain, Scan Global Logistics, Flostream and CH Robinson.
The forwarder has been expanding rapidly in recent years with several new office openings. Earlier this year, the company purchased Canadian firm Locher Evers International.
Lufthansa Cargo has appointed a new chief financial officer to its management team.
Frank Bauer will be the new chief financial officer and chief human resources officer of Lufthansa Cargo.
He will take up his new position on August 1, 2023.
Bauer began his career at Lufthansa in 2007. Three years later he joined the airline Jade Cargo in China. In 2012, he returned to Deutsche Lufthansa AG and took on numerous management positions in the years that followed. For example, he headed the Lufthansa Group’s internal audit department.
Subsequently, as a member of the executive board of Eurowings, he was responsible for finance and human resources. Most recently, he headed the controlling and risk management work of the Group.
Michael Niggemann, chairman of the supervisory board of Lufthansa Cargo, said: “I am delighted that Frank Bauer, an experienced finance and HR expert with great expertise in the logistics sector, will complement and strengthen the Executive Board of Lufthansa Cargo.
“He has proven his management skills in various leadership positions in the Lufthansa Group. The Lufthansa Cargo Executive Board, which is now complete again, will master future challenges under the leadership of Chairman Ashwin Bhat and, together with the company’s employees, further expand Lufthansa Cargo’s global leadership position.”
Christian Leifeld will take over responsibility for controlling and risk management at the Lufthansa Group as Frank Bauer’s successor on August 1, 2023. He began his career at McKinsey in 2003. After founding InterNations (now part of New Work SE) and serving as chief financial officer there, he moved to the E.ON Group in 2009, where he held numerous management positions.
Leifeld was responsible for group controlling from 2017 and subsequently for group controlling, accounting & risk, before serving as Country chief financial officer for E.ON in the Czech Republic from 2020 to 2023.
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