Messe München has announced the appointment of Bhupinder Singh, currently serving as CEO of Messe München India, as President IMEA (India, Middle East, Africa).
This strategic move reflects the Messe München’s commitment to fostering growth and driving innovation across these dynamic and fast-growing regions. The company is strengthening its strategic focus on the Indian, Middle Eastern and African regions by combining responsibility for this area into “IMEA” (India, Middle East, Africa).
Bhupinder Singh assumed the pivotal position of President IMEA on January 1, 2025. Since his appointment in 2016 as the CEO of Messe München India, he has successfully led the organization to become the second largest international subsidiary of the esteemed Messe München Group. In addition to his responsibility for India, Bhupinder Singh also oversees Messe München’s events in Africa.
With his new regional responsibilities, Bhupinder Singh will drive Messe München’s market entry in the Middle East.
At the same time, he will become a member of the Board of Directors of MMI Asia Singapore, Messe München’s umbrella organization for the regions of China, India, Africa and the Middle East.
“Bhupinder Singh is characterized by his strategic vision, his in-depth understanding of the dynamics of the trade fair industry and his exceptional leadership”, say the two CEO’s Stefan Rummel and Reinhard Pfeiffer: “He has already led our Indian subsidiary to extraordinary success and will now also establish our trade fairs in the Middle East.” His achievements are impressive: since 2016, Bhupinder Singh has expanded the company’s portfolio in India from seven to more than 20 events and almost quadrupled the company’s sales revenue.
Also Read: TAM Group Expands in Latin America with New Mexico Office.
“Leading the IMEA region is an opportunity to shape the future of trade fairs in some of the world’s most dynamic markets”, explains Bhupinder Singh, President IMEA Messe München: “By fostering innovation and building platforms for meaningful partnerships, we aim to drive transformative growth across India, Africa, and the Middle East.”
As one of the world’s leading trade fair organizers, Messe München presents the world of tomorrow at around 90 trade fairs worldwide. These include twelve of the world’s leading trade fairs such as bauma, BAU, IFAT and electronica.
TAM Group, a leading Global Sales and Service Agent (GSSA) headquartered in Hong Kong, is excited to announce the opening of a new office in Mexico City, strategically positioned to meet the growing demand for air cargo services in Latin America. This expansion complements TAM Group’s robust presence in Chile, the USA, and Brazil, further enhancing its operational capabilities in one of the region’s largest and most dynamic cargo markets.
The new office, located in Colonia Molino del Rey, will serve as a key hub for TAM Group’s operations in Mexico, marking the company’s third office in Latin America since the establishment of its Chile office in 2016. This strategic location aims to strengthen relationships with existing partners while actively pursuing new opportunities within Mexico’s significant air cargo sector.
Fernando Garreton, Vice President for the Americas at TAM Group, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the expansion: “Mexico is a crucial market for TAM Group as we expand our network throughout the Americas. Establishing our new office in Mexico City not only demonstrates our dedication to delivering outstanding service to our airline partners and customers, but also underscores our ambition to contribute significantly to Mexico’s and Latin America’s vibrant cargo industry. We anticipate a surge in trade between this region and Asia, especially with countries such as China and Southeast Asia. This office will be central to providing our stakeholders with top-tier cargo solutions.”
In 2024, TAM Group saw 23% growth in the Americas, managing over 1,500 flights for partners like Aerolineas Argentinas, Air China Cargo and JetBlue Airways.
The primary commodities managed include perishables, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
With six offices in Chile, the USA, Brazil, and now Mexico, TAM Group is renowned for delivering innovative, cost-effective air cargo solutions.
2024 marks record air cargo year for Vienna Airport: 22% cargo growth with 15.3% increase in pharma handling compared to the previous year
Vienna Airport ended the year 2024 with new record figures for air cargo volumes: A total of 297,945 tons of cargo were handled, which represents a significant increase of 22% compared to the previous year and plus 5% compared to the pre-crisis year 2019. In particular, the positive development of long-haul services boosted the cargo results at the airport, as there was strong demand for the additional belly capacities in passenger aircrafts. With a total of 4,238 tons in 2024, the airport also achieved a new all-time high in pharma handling (up 15.3 %).
“With the best cargo results in the history of Vienna Airport, we are strengthening our position as a central hub for air cargo services in Central and Eastern Europe. This record clearly proves our first-class infrastructure and high quality of service, convincing customers worldwide. The strong growth is evident in both imported goods and global exports. The record regarding pharmaceutical handling is particularly pleasing: Vienna Airport is thus establishing itself even more strongly as a leading logistics expert for pharmaceutical shipments”, says Julian Jäger, joint CEO and COO of Vienna Airport.
“The record result for 2024 marks an impressive achievement by our cargo handling team. At the same time, we have set the course for further positive development. With the extension of the handling contract with Lufthansa Cargo and the IATA certification for the handling of lithium batteries, we have already taken the next steps to maintain a sustained growth path”, adds Michael Zach, Senior Vice President Ground Handling & Cargo Operations of Vienna Airport.
Hainan Airlines and ANA’s return to Vienna added belly capacities, enhancing connections to Shenzhen, Chengdu, and Tokyo.
Simultaneously, airlines such as Qatar Airways increased their frequencies to Vienna. The additional cargo space led to a significant increase of 44% in the cargo transported on passenger aircraft to 125,103 tons. With 82,610 tons, freighter-only cargo remained approximately at previous year’s level, (minus three percent). In 2024, trucked volumes increased by 24% to 90,199 tons, making a significant contribution to the new freight record.
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In 2024, Vienna Airport handled 163,026 tons of import cargo, distributing it across Austria and Central and Eastern Europe.
The growing e-commerce volumes from Asia also contributed to this significant 20% increase in import volumes. Exports from Vienna amounted to a total of 134,918 tons of cargo. This figure also rose significantly by 23% compared to the previous year. The most important markets here are also Asia and the USA.
New record at the competence center for pharma handling at Vienna Airport
Vienna Airport Pharma Handling Center, open to all airlines, continues strong growth in handling temperature-sensitive goods.
In 2024, Vienna Airport surpassed its previous record from 2023 by handling 4,238 tons, marking a 15.3% increase.
Vienna Airport is among few CEE airports with a competence center for pharmaceutical handling, ensuring an uninterrupted cold chain.
Mawani (The Saudi Ports Authority) has achieved significant milestones in 2024, further enhancing Saudi Arabia’s status as a global logistics hub.
These achievements included improved international rankings for Saudi ports and the launch of major investment projects, all aligning with the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy.
In 2024, Saudi Arabia’s global ranking in container handling improved markedly, as reported by Lloyd’s List. The Kingdom ranked 15th globally, with three of its ports listed among the world’s top 100 ports. Jeddah Islamic Port climbed from 41st to 32nd place, King Abdullah Port advanced from 71st to 70th, and King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam rose from 90th to 82nd.
To enhance the competitiveness of Saudi ports, Mawani signed agreements, broke ground, and inaugurated projects to establish eight logistics zones and centers at Jeddah Islamic Port and King Abdulaziz Port in Dammam.
These private-sector investments, totaling approximately SAR 2.9 billion, are part of a broader plan involving SAR 10 billion for 18 logistics zones across the Kingdom. Notably, Maersk’s largest global logistics investment, valued at SAR 1.3 billion and spanning 225,000 square meters, was inaugurated at Jeddah Islamic Port.
Additionally, 2024 saw the completion of the northern expansion of Jeddah Islamic Port in collaboration with the Red Sea Gateway Terminal Company. This SAR 1 billion project expanded the terminal’s area from 700,000 square meters to 1.5 million square meters, increasing its capacity from 2.5 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) to 6.2 million TEUs.
To further improve Saudi Arabia’s ranking in the Maritime Connectivity Index and boost the flow of national exports and imports, 34 new shipping services were introduced, connecting Saudi ports with key ports in the East and West.
Also Read: Unifeeder Sees Record Growth in Mediterranean Trade.
Mawani also signed multiple agreements with international ports and national entities, including the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services, the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority, Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR), the Saudi Logistics Academy, Lloyd’s Register, Pacific International Lines, Port of Hamburg, Hamburg Port Consulting, Reviva, and the Port of Marseille Fos. These partnerships aim to develop human capital and enhance operational efficiency.
In support of Saudi Arabia’s prominence on the global logistics map, Mawani launched the Port Community System, providing over 250 e-services across its ports. The Kingdom also announced its successful bid to host the UNCTAD Global Supply Chain Forum in 2026.
Additionally, Jeddah Islamic Port was listed on the London Metal Exchange (LME). Mawani concluded 2024 with notable international recognition, earning eight local, regional, and global awards from prestigious organizations specializing in logistics and port operations.
FedEx (Federal Express Corporation), the world’s largest express transportation company, has launched a new customs clearance facility at Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ). The facility is equipped with in-house clearance capabilities, enabling FedEx to handle shipment clearance procedures on behalf of its customers to enhance operational efficiency and offer greater convenience to businesses.
The new facility supports the clearance of packages shipped to and from RAKEZ through a range of FedEx express air and deferred road services, simplifying the import and export process.
“We are pleased to launch our new customs clearance facility in Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone to enhance trade flow for local businesses and improve their access to specialized logistics support. By providing customs clearance services in the free zone, we are not only helping businesses to reduce costs and save time but also allowing them to focus on their growth and expansion,” said Taarek Hinedi, vice president of FedEx Middle East and Africa Operations. “This facility demonstrates our commitment to strengthening the UAE’s logistics ecosystem by continuously investing in the enhancement of our products and services. We look forward to supporting Ras Al Khaimah’s economic growth and the evolving needs of our customers in the Emirate.”
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Ramy Jallad, Group CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), said “Welcoming the new FedEx customs clearance facility in RAKEZ marks yet another strategic development in our ongoing efforts to enhance the business support infrastructure for our community. This facility will provide our businesses, particularly manufacturers, with streamlined customs processes and access to top-tier logistical solutions from FedEx, helping to improve their operational efficiency. An integral part of our commitment to empowering businesses in RAKEZ is facilitating their expansion plans and providing them with seamless access to international markets.”
A robust logistics network will be key to supporting Ras Al Khaimah’s growth, particularly its thriving manufacturing and industrial sector, which contributes approximately 30% to the Emirate’s overall GDP. This diverse economy positions Ras Al Khaimah as an attractive destination for businesses of all sizes, further solidifying its role as a key player in regional and global trade.
In 2024, Brussels Airport welcomed 23.6 million passengers. With so many travellers passing through, it’s no wonder that items occasionally go astray in the terminal. Last year alone, travellers left a total of 27,815 items in trays at security checkpoints or other areas of the airport. Approximately 24% of these items were reunited with their rightful owners. Much of the lost property that remains uncollected is donated to charitable organisations.
Every day, an average of 65,000 passengers travel through Brussels Airport, typically carrying plenty of baggage and belongings. However, from time to time, items are accidentally left behind at the airport. In cases involving checked baggage, passengers should contact their airline. All other misplaced items are registered by Brussels Airport’s Lost & Found service. They strive to return the forgotten items to their owners.
A total of 27,815 lost items were found in 2024, both at security checkpoints and other places at the airport. The items mostly include clothing, identity documents, jewellery, laptops, unchecked baggage and wallets. But smartphones, keys and toys also often go missing. In 2024, even larger items like prams, djembes, and a television set were left behind at the airport. Approximately 24% of lost items, or about a quarter, are eventually returned to their owners. These include laptops, identity documents, clothing, jewellery and wallets. 74% of objects returned to their owners within two weeks.
Around two-thirds of all lost items at the airport are recovered in the Connector, the area between the security checkpoints and the Piers. Brussels Airport actively promotes awareness in that area, encouraging travellers to check for forgotten items after security screening before they proceed with their journey.
Brussels Airport also urges passengers to always report their lost items via its website. Found items are kept at the airport for up to six months. Once the owner has been identified, they can come and collect the items themselves or have them sent to them. Identity cards, passports, and other official documents are transferred to the federal police after one month, after which they can no longer be retrieved.
One of Brussels Airport’s strategic pillars is sustainability. Items that have been with the Lost & Found service for six months are often given a second life. For instance, the airport works with the Centre for General Welfare Centre (CAW) to donate abandoned clothing to those experiencing homelessness. Unclaimed electronic devices are donated to the non-profit organisation Close The Gap, which distributes used electronics to social, medical, and educational initiatives. In 2024, Brussels Airport donated a total of 193 mobile phones and 229 tablets to this non-profit organisation.
Opened food products are recycled for hygiene reasons. Packages that are large and unopened, as well as liquids like shampoo, deodorant, and drink containers that are not permitted through security, are given to local social welfare centres. In 2024, Brussels Airport donated a total of 26,200 kg of these products.
Remaining unclaimed items, such as belts and glasses, are processed and sold through an auction house.
EFIS Maroc, a subsidiary of ECS Group, has announced a strategic partnership with China Eastern Airlines. This development further solidifies its leadership in African cargo logistics. Moreover, by forming this alliance, EFIS Maroc is poised to enhance its market presence and expand its service offerings. Consequently, this partnership marks a significant step forward in strengthening its position within the industry.
Starting January 19, 2025, this collaboration will introduce three weekly flights between Casablanca (CMN) and Shanghai (PVG) via Marseille (MRS). The flights, operated on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, will utilize Boeing 787-900 aircraft with an 18-ton cargo capacity.
Focus on Automotive Industry
The new service supports the automotive industry by ensuring the timely and secure transport of high-value components between Morocco and China.
“This partnership with China Eastern Airlines marks a key milestone for EFIS Maroc and ECS Group,” said Jean Ceccaldi, CEO of ECS Group. “Combining our regional expertise with innovative tools, we aim to redefine standards in efficiency and reliability for cargo logistics.”
Advanced Digital Solutions
EFIS Maroc leverages ECS Group’s global network and advanced digital tools in this partnership. The use of Squair, ECS Group’s proprietary solution for optimizing customs reporting, along with CargoAi’s advanced digital booking platform, will streamline operations and enhance transparency.
Through this collaboration, ECS Group strengthens Morocco’s role as a gateway to Africa and expands its continental presence. “We are proud to boost Morocco’s importance in African logistics,” Ceccaldi added, noting the potential for increased trade and growth.
By implementing these strategies, EFIS Maroc ensures seamless service integration, leading to better outcomes for the airline and its customers.
Air New Zealand welcomed 16.2 million customers and operated 171,605 flights in 2024, marking a significant year for the airline.
CEO Greg Foran expressed gratitude to travelers and the airline’s team, stating, “Their professionalism and grit kept the airline moving, even while navigating significant challenges such as ongoing engine availability issues.”
Milestones and Achievements
The airline achieved several milestones, including sending its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner to Singapore for an interior retrofit. “We can’t wait to welcome our customers into these new cabins in 2025,” Foran said.
The 23rd safety video, “Every Point Counts,” featuring Kiwi basketball star Steven Adams, became a sensation with 30.4 million views globally.
Airpoints membership grew by 414,000, reaching a total of 4.8 million members. The Airpoints Store saw nearly 300,000 items sold, with the Huski Beer Cooler as the top product.
Auckland to Sydney emerged as the most popular short-haul route. Meanwhile, Auckland to Singapore led in long-haul travel, demonstrating the strong demand for both regional and international connections.
Bali remained a favorite holiday destination, prompting Air New Zealand to expand its service to a year-round schedule.
The introduction of Live Chat resulted in 265,936 customer engagements, enhancing customer connections.
The Mangōpare Air New Zealand Pilot Cadetship received over 2,000 applications, with 30 cadets selected for training.
The engineering team logged 1.2 million hours maintaining the fleet and completed 88 engine changes.
The airline transported a total of 130.9 million kilograms of cargo, including fresh produce and seafood. Moreover, this highlights the airline’s capacity to handle diverse types of freight efficiently.
Animal Transport and Onboard Services
Air New Zealand carried a total of 19,444 animals, including 9,148 dogs and 4,369 cats. Additionally, the airline transported seven penguins.
Meals served totaled 5.7 million, with 3.8 million cookies and 17.5 million lollies distributed.
Looking Ahead
As the airline approaches its 85th anniversary in April, Foran emphasized the commitment to connecting New Zealanders and the world. “Here’s to building on this legacy and achieving many more milestones in the years ahead,” he said.
Singapore Changi Airport handled 67.7 million passenger movements in 2024, registering a 14.8% year-on-year increase. This was 99.1% of the passenger movements recorded in 2019, prior to the Covid-19 pandemic. Aircraft movements, totaled 366,000 in 2024, up 11.5% compared to 2023. A total of 1.99 million tonnes airfreight throughput was recorded in the year, surpassing 2023’s level by 14.6%.
For the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2024, Singapore Changi Airport handled 17.8 million passenger movements. This was a 10.7% increase compared to the same period in 2023, and marked a full traffic recovery compared to Q4 of 2019. Aircraft movements, which include landings and take-offs, totaled 95,300, up 9.3% year-on-year. For the quarter, 521,000 tonnes in air freight throughput was recorded, an increase of 15.0%.
December 2024, with 6.4 million passenger movements, was the busiest month in the year, the first-time monthly traffic has exceeded six million since December 2019. The busiest day of the year was 21 December 2024 – the Saturday before Christmas – when 226,000 passengers passed through Changi’s terminals.
While all regions witnessed growth, North Asia was the fastest growing in 2024, registering an increase of 40% compared to 2023. Changi Airport’s top five passenger markets for the year were China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia and Thailand.
China was Changi’s largest source market of the year, with passenger traffic almost doubling 2023’s level and surpassing the pre-Covid level by 6%. Hong Kong and Japan also recorded significant growth of more than 20% year-on-year.
Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Jakarta, Denpasar (Bali) and Hong Kong were Changi Airport’s busiest routes during the year. Shanghai entered Changi’s top 10 cities list for the first time since 2011, registering a 94% growth compared to the previous year.
On the cargo front, all cargo flows—exports, imports, and transshipments—grew, driven by major improvements in cargo flows between Singapore and China, as well as the United States. The recovery of Singapore’s electronics exports and re-exports, strong global demand for cross-border e-commerce shipments, and the modal shift from ocean to air freight due to disruptions in maritime transport also drove growth.
For the year, Changi’s top five air cargo markets were China, Australia, the United States, Hong Kong and India.
Mr. Yam Kum Weng, Chief Executive Officer of Changi Airport Group, said, “We witnessed a year of strong growth in passenger and cargo traffic as well as connectivity in 2024. Changi added a bumper crop of 11 new city links, strengthening the air hub’s network and opening up a world of new destinations to support business ties and for travelers to explore. We are deeply grateful for the close partnership with our airline partners and are pleased to welcome the new airlines to Changi. Their collaboration has been instrumental in driving this growth.
“Looking ahead, we are optimistic of another year of growth in passenger traffic. Changi Airport Group will continue investing in the airport’s infrastructure, systems, and processes to augment handling capacity and support rising air travel demand in the coming years.”
Enhancing Connectivity
In 2024, Changi Airport welcomed eight new passenger airlines – Aero Dili, AirAsia Cambodia, Air Canada, Air Japan, Loong Air, Peach Aviation, Tianjin Airlines and West Air. As Changi expanded its connectivity to the world, it added 11 new passenger city links to its network, connecting Singapore to Broome, Brussels, Guiyang, Kertajati, Lhasa, Linyi, Malacca, Phu Quoc, Quanzhou, Vancouver, and Wenzhou.
Also Read: WestJet Launches Calgary-Mexico City Flights.
During the year, Changi also established flights to London Gatwick Airport and Subang Airport, providing more options for travels to London and Kuala Lumpur. More exciting new routes are already on the horizon, and travelers can look forward to new destinations including Labuan Bajo from March, and Vienna from June this year.
Changi Airport also welcomed two new freighter airlines in 2024 – Shandong Airlines, which also resumed passenger services during the year, and Air Incheon.
The company added two new freighter city links, connecting Singapore to Haikou and Nagoya.
As at January 2025, 100 airlines operate over 7,400 weekly scheduled flights at Changi Airport, connecting Singapore to 163 cities in 49 countries and territories worldwide.
WestJet recently announced non-stop service between Calgary and Mexico City International Airport (MEX). Beginning May 14, 2025, WestJet will operate five weekly flights, reaffirming its leadership as the top carrier connecting Canada and Mexico, while reinforcing Calgary’s position as a key hub for the airline’s global network.
“WestJet’s continued investment in popular sun destinations had made us the gateway between Canada and Mexico, bolstering both countries vital commercial and tourism economies,” said Daniel Fajardo, WestJet, Vice-President of Network and Schedule Planning. “Service between Calgary and Mexico City opens the door for more Western Canadians to explore Mexico’s vibrant culture and history, while boosting trade and tourism across North America.”
| Route | Start date | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Calgary > Mexico City | May 14, 2025 | 5x weekly |
| Mexico City > Calgary | May 15, 2025 | 5x weekly |
Last served in 2018, the reintroduction of service between Calgary and Mexico City provides vital links for Alberta’s business sectors, allowing greater access to one of North America’s largest consumer markets and one of the world’s largest trading markets. Additionally, small businesses and exporters in Western Canada will benefit from increased cargo capacity.
Through the addition of Mexico City, The WestJet Group, inclusive of WestJet and Sunwing Airlines, will serve 13 cities in Mexico from 24 Canadian cities in 2025. The group will continue to offer more non-stop routes between Canada and Mexico than any other Canadian operator, with more than 200 flights per week during peak travel periods. In 2024, the WestJet Group flew an average of 46 flights per day between Canada and Mexico, carrying more than 2.6 million guests to and from the country.
WestJet and Mexico’s flag carrier, Aeromexico, have had an extensive partnership since 2011. Through their longstanding partnership, WestJet offers guests more access to Mexico’s diverse destinations. Guests travelling from Calgary can book to connect seamlessly beyond Mexico City to major destinations such as Chihuahua, Guadalajara, Guanajuato, Merida and Monterrey with the convenience of a single check-in experience. Additionally, guests travelling from Mexico City to Calgary will have access to WestJet’s global hub, and robust domestic schedule.
WestJet’s non-stop flight to Mexico City is just one of many new direct services launching this spring. WestJet will fly to six new destinations from YYC Calgary International Airport alone, growing its presence at the airline’s global hub by 11 per cent compared to last year. WestJet’s fulsome summer 2025 schedule is now available at WestJet.com.
“Air access is crucial for bringing the world to Alberta. We support WestJet and Calgary Airport Authority in launching the new route to Mexico City,” said Joseph Schow, Alberta’s Minister of Tourism and Sport. “Calgary is a key hub, enhancing connectivity to grow Alberta’s visitor economy.”
“We commend WestJet on its new Calgary to Mexico City route. This flight strengthens cultural, tourism, and economic ties, benefiting travelers and communities,” said Mario Morales, Consul of Mexico in Calgary.
“WestJet’s direct service to Mexico City underscores Calgary’s role as an economic hub. This route expands travel options and creates opportunities for business, tourism, and growth,” said a Calgary official.
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“WestJet’s announcement marks a milestone in boosting Calgary tourism from Mexico,” said Alisha Reynolds, President & CEO of Tourism Calgary.
“Our partnership with WestJet and this direct flight enhances visitation and showcases Calgary to Mexican visitors.
“This connectivity boosts Calgary’s appeal for international meetings, driving economic growth and establishing the city as a key global destination.”
“This link between two dynamic cities strengthens Calgary’s position as a global hub,” says Chris Dinsdale, President & CEO, YYC Calgary International Airport. “As Western Canada’s gateway, we are proud to partner with WestJet to build global networks. We look forward to welcoming guests from Mexico City to explore our region.”
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
