Chapman Freeborn has expanded its cargo operations in Saudi Arabia, having signed an agreement with AJEX Logistics Services, a Middle East-based company specializing in express distribution and shipping solutions.
The move by the global charterer comes as a strategic response to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 programme which aims to increase air freight capacity to 4.5 million tons per year.
“This collaboration aligns with our mission to provide world-class aviation services and reflects our dedication to supporting the Kingdom’s Vision 2030,” said Gerhard Coetzee, Vice President Cargo at Chapman Freeborn.
“Together, we will drive innovation and excellence in aviation and cargo operations, ensuring that our clients benefit from the best possible service.”
Chapman Freeborn’s increased service offering mirrors its commitment to the region, following significant investment in personnel throughout the last two years, including the appointment of Linas Dovydenas as President of IMEA (India, Middle East and Africa) in November.
Under the terms of the agreement the companies will collaborate to offer comprehensive airport ground and cargo handling, and management of special cargo projects.
Also Read: DCAA and PCFC Sign MOU to Boost Aviation Collaboration.
“By combining our regional strengths with Chapman Freeborn’s extensive global network, we are committed to delivering enhanced aviation and cargo solutions that support the Kingdom’s ambitious growth objectives,” said Mohammed Albayati, Chief Executive Officer, AJEX Logistics Services.
Launched in 2016, Saudi Vision 2030, is an ambitious plan to diversify the Saudi economy and reduce its dependence on hydrocarbons.
Chapman Freeborn was awarded Air Charter Broker of the Year at the Payload Asia Awards last October in recognition of its role reinforcing supply chains’ resilience through time-critical deliveries and rapid response to humanitarian crises.
The Chapman Freeborn group was established in the UK in 1973. The company has offices worldwide including North America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. In the cargo market, Chapman Freeborn Airchartering specialises in the charter and lease of aircraft for a wide-ranging customer base, including freight forwarders, multinational corporations, governments, humanitarian agencies and a host of industries around the globe.
Etihad Cargo, the logistics division of Etihad Airways, has operated 329 scheduled and charter flights from Ezhou Huahu Airport to Zayed International Airport, further establishing its reputation as a trusted partner for industries such as pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, and perishables
Since its inaugural flight to Ezhou Huahu Airport on August 18, 2023, making it the first international airline to do so, Etihad Cargo has reinforced its commitment to enhancing connectivity between Abu Dhabi and key markets across Asia, Europe, and beyond.
Ezhou Huahu Airport, Asia’s first dedicated freighter hub, has served as a strategic base for Etihad Cargo, enabling the transport of over 18,700 tonnes of export cargo and more than 400 tonnes of imports through Abu Dhabi since 2023. The addition of a sixth weekly scheduled flight in July 2024, followed by a seventh in 2025, has enhanced the carrier’s network, ensuring efficient connections to key global markets. The recent IATA CEIV Pharma certification for the airport’s ground handling services further strengthens its ability to support specialized cargo, especially within the pharmaceutical sector.
Stanislas Brun, Vice President Cargo at Etihad Cargo, said: “As the first international carrier to operate from Ezhou, Etihad Cargo is proud to have played a pivotal role in demonstrating the airport’s superior capabilities and strategic importance within just one year of operations. Etihad Cargo’s customers have expressed high satisfaction with the reliability and efficiency of the service, validating the carrier’s decision to partner with Ezhou and recognizing its potential as a global cargo hub. Ezhou Huahu Airport’s advanced infrastructure has impressed exporters and local customers alike, especially in facilitating seamless imports, while Etihad Cargo’s efforts to showcase Ezhou’s connectivity and capabilities to exporters in Europe and beyond are paving the way for even greater opportunities.”
Ezhou Huahu Airport, with its advanced facilities and strategic location, has emerged as a key logistics hub, enabling the seamless movement of goods across Asia and beyond. Its extensive network of 36 international cargo routes, combined with Etihad Cargo’s global connectivity through Abu Dhabi, has created significant value for customers seeking efficient and reliable cargo solutions. The collaborative efforts of partners, stakeholders, and local authorities have been essential in driving the success of Etihad Cargo’s operations in the region.
Also Read: DB Schenker Launches Ezhou-Frankfurt Air Cargo Route.
Li Wei, Deputy General Manager of Ezhou Huahu International Airport, said: “Ezhou Huahu International Airport is located in central China, boasting a strategic geographical advantage and solid foundational conditions. A domestic hub-and-spoke route network is already established, while international logistics channels are rapidly taking shape. Port functionalities are continuously improving, and operational capabilities are steadily advancing. In 2024, the airport’s cargo and mail throughput are projected to rank fifth nationwide, with 36 international cargo routes already operational. Ezhou Huahu International Airport regards Etihad Cargo as a key strategic partner and supports the launch of more cargo routes at the airport, achieving even greater milestones in the future.”
Etihad Cargo’s operations in Ezhou are a key component of the carrier’s extensive network in Greater China, which will grow to 23 weekly freighters and 25 weekly passenger flights in 2025.
In an exclusive dialogue with Air Cargo Update’s Associate Publisher, Poonam Chawla, Dr. Raman Kumar, the pioneering Managing Director of Al-Futtaim Logistics, reveals the company’s groundbreaking strategies and its ascent to the zenith of industry excellence.
As the MENA region catapults onto the global stage as a pivotal player in air cargo, Dr. Kumar’s insights offer a captivating glimpse into the future of logistics. From cutting-edge 5G tracking systems to AI-powered document processing, Al-Futtaim Logistics is harnessing state-of-the-art technology to navigate the complexities of a post-pandemic world.
New Markets for Aerospace
How is the MENA region emerging as a key player in the global air cargo industry?
The air cargo industry is at a transformative juncture. Digitization, e-commerce and sustainability will remain pivotal in shaping its future. Companies that embrace these trends and invest in innovative solutions will lead the way.
The MENA region is on the cusp of becoming the epicenter of global air cargo operations. Airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways and Saudia Cargo are driving this growth, supported by the region’s strategic location.
The geographical advantage allows for swift connections between Asia, Europe and the Americas. Goods often transition from sea to air in this region, facilitating rapid delivery to destinations worldwide. For example, Saudi Arabia’s central position enables quick deliveries to key markets within hours.
Visions like Saudi 2030 and the UAE’s development plans underscore the region’s potential. With strategic investments and advancements, the MENA region is poised for remarkable growth in the air cargo sector.
In 2025, we are expanding our aerospace logistics services to KSA, Kuwait and Oman and will be offering customers time critical freight and local services solutions. Over time, we have gained momentum through client recommendations. The services we will extend in these new markets includes freight solutions for AOGs, time critical parts from MROs, airlines and part suppliers, overcoming uncertainties and designing custom solutions to respond to the aerospace client’s pain points.
Al-Futtaim Logistics, being part of one of the largest automotive conglomerates in the UAE – Al-Futtaim Automotive, is poised to spearhead this charge into a more interconnected, efficient and sustainable future.
Secure Aerospace Logistics
Dr. Kumar, Al-Futtaim Logistics has recently secured the prestigious ASA-100 accreditation. Can you elaborate on the significance of this achievement?
Securing the ASA-100 accreditation is nothing short of a prestigious moment for Al-Futtaim Logistics. This accolade propels us into an elite echelon, as one of only five 3PL companies globally to hold this esteemed accreditation. It’s not merely a feather in our cap; it’s a resounding affirmation of our unwavering commitment to excellence in freight handling and security standards in aerospace logistics.
Al-Futtaim Logistics’ compliance with ASA-100 standards includes meticulous documentation control to ensure traceability and accountability for all aircraft parts. Rigorous inspections are conducted on inbound and outbound shipments to identify and address any hazardous materials, suspected unapproved parts, or counterfeit components. When such items are detected, Al-Futtaim Logistics swiftly notifies clients and implements quarantine and segregation procedures to maintain safety and quality standards.
How will this accreditation impact your clientele and operational paradigm?
For our customers, it means they can trust us to handle their freight with utmost care and precision, especially when it comes to safety of parts and products. This certification ensures that we meet and exceed industry standards, providing our clients with peace of mind and reliable service. It instills an unprecedented level of confidence in our ability to handle cargo with surgical precision and utmost care. This isn’t just a seal of approval; it’s an ironclad guarantee of reliability and excellence, equipping us to tackle the most formidable logistics challenges.
In what ways does the ASA-100 accreditation align with Al-Futtaim Logistics’ overarching strategy?
The ASA-100 accreditation serves as the cornerstone of our forward-thinking strategy. In the dynamic realm of logistics, stagnation is tantamount to regression. This certification acts as a springboard for perpetual innovation. We are not content with merely maintaining
standards; we are committed to continually raising the bar. Our goal isn’t just to participate in the logistics industry; it’s to reshape its very foundations.
Last Mile E-Commerce
How have customer expectations and logistics evolved in e-commerce over the last five years?
E-commerce has undergone a rapid transformation. What previously took decades to develop now evolves within a few years. If companies fail to adapt swiftly, competitors will overtake them.
Think about how straightforward it is to order items from anywhere in the world and receive them within a week, something that was unimaginable just a few years back. Today, this has become the norm, all thanks to improvements in last-mile logistics.
The global e-commerce companies have set new benchmarks by transitioning from e-commerce to becoming global logistics leaders. Their efficiency in digitization and innovation has become a model for others. At Al-Futtaim Logistics, we have introduced AI-driven solutions that automate document scanning and data extraction, reducing processing time from hours to minutes.
Last-mile delivery has also expanded from ground-based solutions to aerial logistics, showcasing the industry’s readiness to embrace innovation.
What role does collaboration play in shaping the future of the e-commerce industry?
Collaboration is essential for driving innovation in e-commerce. While e-commerce will coexist with traditional courier and logistics businesses, there will be a shift in balance. Traditional methods won’t disappear, as services like urgent shipments and fuel transport remain essential. Instead, the focus should be on fostering healthy competition and leveraging each company’s strengths to propel the industry forward.
Environmentally Conscious 3PL
Could you elaborate on Al-Futtaim Logistics team’s sustainability initiatives?
Sustainability is a cornerstone of our operations, aligning with the UAE’s net-zero emissions goal by 2050 and Al-Futtaim’s internal targets. We address sustainability through controllable and non-controllable factors. For instance, while we rely on shipping partners for fuel emissions, we actively manage our fleet operations.
Our initiatives include transitioning vehicles to biofuels like B5 and B100. The latter uses sustainably sourced raw materials, significantly improving our net-zero score. Additionally, we have incorporated electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid trucks into our fleet to further reduce emissions. To validate these efforts, we have partnered with Green Freight Asia for sustainability audits. After a rigorous three-year process, we are nearing the highest possible sustainability score. These efforts reflect our commitment to regulatory requirements and actionable sustainability targets.
Digitization
How is digitization transforming the cargo industry?
Digitization is streamlining operations and reducing manual processes in the cargo industry. We at Al-Futtaim Logistics have implemented digital initiatives like Yard Management System for better automotive logistics operations, leading to increased productivity. The adoption of digital technologies has enabled real-time ocean container tracking and improved communication between stakeholders in the supply chain.
Digital solutions are providing better visibility across the supply chain. Freight forwarders can now collect and analyze vast amounts of data about shipments, carriers and markets, leading to better decision-making in pricing, routing and risk management. Al-Futtaim Logistics has deployed new technologies in their systems for contract logistics, general transport and last-mile deliveries, increasing transparency in the entire supply chain.
The industry is moving towards paperless operations, with innovations like the electronic Bill of Lading (e-BoL) reducing administrative burdens, eliminating manual errors and accelerating the documentation process. Digitization is enabling freight forwarders to provide better customer service. Al-Futtaim Logistics’ e-commerce logistics platform offers last-mile delivery, assembly services and shipment tracking, prioritizing customer convenience.
What are the key challenges in the implementation of digitization?
One of the biggest challenges is the lack of standardization across the industry, making it difficult for businesses to exchange information and connect electronically. There is also a lack of integration between different software systems, hindering a complete view of the supply chain.
Implementing digital solutions requires significant investment in time and money, which can be a barrier for small and medium-sized businesses. The industry needs to adapt to and effectively utilize new technologies. This includes training staff and updating existing systems to work with new digital solutions. With increased digitization comes the need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data and ensure compliance with privacy regulations.
While digitization presents challenges, Al-Futtaim Logistics is embracing these changes to improve its operations and service offerings. The industry as a whole is moving towards a more digitized future, with the potential for significant improvements in efficiency, visibility and customer satisfaction.
The logistics landscape is undergoing a seismic shift. How is Al-Futtaim Logistics staying ahead of the curve?
The world has significantly changed, especially after COVID, emphasizing the importance of adopting digital solutions. Consumers now demand instant availability of goods, whether essential items or aerospace components, pushing for seamless logistics.
In aviation, supply chain efficiency has become critical. We are not merely adapting to change; we are orchestrating it. Our advanced 5G-compatible tracking systems and AI-driven document processing are revolutionizing our modus operandi. We are transmuting raw data into actionable insights, slashing processing times from hours to mere minutes. This digital metamorphosis isn’t just about enhancing efficiency; it’s about redefining the boundaries of possibility in logistics.
What has been the biggest impact of digitization on your operational ecosystem?
Digitization has impacted us in many ways. First, it has increased operational costs. However, this is offset by improved resource planning and operational efficiency. Integrated systems ensure seamless data flow without manual intervention, streamlining the supply chain for customers and us.
About Aerospace Logistics at Al-Futtaim Logistics
| · Headquartered in the UAE
· Established in 1980 · Airside operations in major UAE airports · 24 x 7 AOG operations · ASA-100 accredited 3PL services · 65+ aerospace network member and 300+ stations · Own aerospace hubs in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Oman by 2025 · Centralized aerospace services, with global coverage and dynamic freight, haulage and storage solutions · Technicians Onboard Charters (TOC) · Winner of Emerging Aerospace Logistics award |
For more information on services, please contact contact@aflogistics.com
Royal Air Maroc Cargo, Morocco’s national airline, has reinforced its 15-year partnership with CHAMP Cargosystems by integrating Cargospot Mobile and Cargospot Handling.
With these new additions, Royal Air Maroc Cargo continues to strategically expand its CHAMP portfolio, effectively addressing critical challenges in the air cargo industry with solutions like Cargospot Airlines, Cargospot Handling, Traxon Global Security, and Traxon Global Commerce.
Implemented earlier in the year, Cargospot Mobile elevates RAM’s hub operations in Casablanca by putting Cargospot Handling in the hands of employees through mobile devices directly on the warehouse floor. This will equip Royal Air Maroc Cargo with live shipment status updates, data insights and safety mechanisms for the handling of dangerous goods, unlocking profound efficiency gains through enhanced connectivity and streamlined operations.
July marked another milestone with Royal Air Maroc Cargo’s successful deployment of Cargospot API giving the airline access to CHAMP’s industry-leading suite of APIs which include services for booking and pricing to be used in tandem with CHAMP’s Cargospot solution. Royal Air Maroc Cargo was particularly enthusiastic to connect with API marketplace, cargo.one, to deliver a world-class digital booking experience and visibility across global customer markets.
Both implementations were executed successfully with impressive speed and were made possible through shared values of collaboration, innovation, and interconnectivity.
Ali Ghaffar, Head of Sales – EMEA at CHAMP, said “We are delighted to equip Royal Air Maroc with Cargospot Mobile and Cargospot APIs and facilitate their continued success. The addition of new Cargospot products combined with their existing suite of CHAMP solutions positions them for excellent growth and opportunities ahead.”
Also Read: CargoAi Partners with KUB Air for Seamless eBooking.
Yassine Berrada, VP Cargo at Royal Air Maroc said “The implementation of Cargospot Mobile and Cargospot APIs have been an exciting development that enables us to automate repetitive tasks through digitalized operations. We look forward to increasing our efficiency, productivity, and interconnectivity with the latest technology and innovative software solutions from CHAMP.”
ECS Group has achieved a major milestone by landing a historic Total Cargo Management (TCM) contract with JetSMART Airlines, the leading low-cost carrier group in South America.
JetSMART Airlines operates under four national AOCs: JetSMART Airlines Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Argentina. The airline offers a broad range of domestic flights within these countries, along with international routes connecting them to each other, as well as to Brazil, the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
This four-year partnership, beginning January 1, 2025, covers JetSMART Airlines’ operations across these four countries, marking the first-ever TCM agreement with a regional airline in South America. As a member of the Indigo Partners group, JetSMART Airlines boasts a modern fleet of A320 and A321 aircraft.
ECS Group will manage nearly 25,000 flights annually and significantly develop domestic markets for JetSMART Airlines’s four national AOCs.
Adrien Thominet, Executive Chairman of ECS Group, highlighted the significance of this collaboration: “This partnership is a landmark achievement for ECS Group. Being entrusted by JetSMART Airlines reinforces our reputation as a global leader in Total Cargo Management. It reflects our proven expertise, innovative digital solutions, and ability to deliver exceptional results across continents. We are proud to see airlines worldwide placing their confidence in our capabilities.”
ECS Group will establish dedicated commercial and operational teams in each country, all coordinated through its state-of-the-art control tower in San José, Costa Rica. Under the TCM contract, JetSMART Airlines will leverage ECS Group’s Total Cargo Expertise (TCE) to ensure unparalleled quality, safety, and security in cargo operations. In addition, JetSMART Airlines will benefit from ECS Group’s close collaboration with CargoTech, gaining access to advanced digital tools, including eBooking via CargoAI, capacity management, and revenue optimization platforms. These cutting-edge solutions will streamline operations, maximize efficiency, and enable JetSMART Airlines to optimize its cargo potential across domestic and international markets.
Also Read: NAV AERO Expands Airline Portfolio with LOT and Oman Air Cargo Partnerships.
By focusing on high-demand commodities such as salmon, perishables, minerals, and mail services, this new venture positions JetSMART Airlines as a key player in strengthening South America’s cargo connectivity to global markets. This agreement also represents the first TCM contract outside Europe with a local airline, further cementing ECS Group’s position as a trusted leader in Total Cargo Management worldwide.
Swiss WorldCargo, the airfreight division of SWISS, Switzerland’s leading air carrier, and Freightos Limited, a leading vendor-neutral booking and payment platform for international freight, establish a collaboration with the shared intent to enhance their customers’ digital booking experience. Various Swiss WorldCargo’s products and services for selected markets in Europe, Asia and Americas are bookable on the air cargo booking platform WebCargo by Freightos.
This collaboration connects WebCargo by Freightos’ real-time rate comparisons and eBooking with Swiss WorldCargo’s robust long-haul connectivity – spanning Asia-Pacific and the Americas – alongside strong pan-European connections. In addition, it demonstrates Swiss WorldCargo’s commitment to provide its customers with a seamless digital booking experience.
Swiss WorldCargo is recognized worldwide for its expertise in transporting high-value, care-intensive, and temperature-sensitive shipments across a vast network of over 170 destinations globally. Thanks to high-quality procedures, a reliable trucking network, trusted partnerships, and swift turnaround times in Zurich and Geneva, the premium cargo carrier offers a guarantee of efficiency and safety in its services to freight forwarders worldwide.
The partnership between Swiss WorldCargo and WebCargo aims to provide forwarders with enhanced options for care-intensive and specialized shipments like pharmaceuticals. WebCargo by Freightos, one of the leading air cargo booking platforms, connects freight forwarders with real-time rates and capacity from more than 55 airlines, as well as some 370 air cargo carriers globally.
Through its new global partnership with WebCargo, Swiss WorldCargo intends to enhance its digital presence, connecting with a wide network of forwarders globally. Swiss WorldCargo’s modular product portfolio bookable on WebCargo for selected markets in Europe, Asia and the Americas includes SWISS General Cargo and SWISS Pharma and Healthcare. These products can be paired with the Celsius Passive transportation solution for temperature-sensitive shipments and the X-Presso option for expedited transportation.
Alain Chisari, Head of Swiss WorldCargo, comments: “We take pride in delivering Swiss-quality service and reliability across every aspect of our work. This commitment extends to our digital journey, ensuring a seamless and reliable experience for our customers. Partnering with the digital platform WebCargo allows us to elevate our customers’ digital booking experience while expanding our market presence onto future-looking digital solutions”.
Also Read: Avianca to Launch New Routes Connecting Florida and Latin America in 2025.
Zvi Schreiber, founder and CEO of Freightos, said: “The integration of Swiss WorldCargo into WebCargo by Freightos marks another significant milestone in the Digital Air Cargo revolution. Swiss WorldCargo’s extensive network and premium service enable thousands of WebCargo freight forwarder customers to instantly book their air cargo needs, including specialized shipments like pharmaceuticals.”
About Swiss WorldCargo
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) is Switzerland’s largest air carrier. With one of Europe’s most advanced and carbon-efficient aircraft fleets, SWISS is a premium airline that provides direct flights from Zurich and Geneva to keep Switzerland connected with Europe and the world. Its Swiss WorldCargo division offers an extensive range of airport-to-airport airfreight services for high-value, time-critical and care-intensive consignments. As The Airline of Switzerland, SWISS embodies its home country’s traditional values and is dedicated to delivering the highest product and service quality. The company has also committed to the ambitious climate goals of halving its 2019 net carbon dioxide emissions by 2030 and making its operations entirely carbon-neutral by 2050, particularly by promoting the use of sustainable aviation fuels. SWISS is part of the Lufthansa Group and is also a member of Star Alliance, the world’s biggest airline network.
About Freightos
Freightos® (NASDAQ: CRGO) is the leading vendor-neutral global freight booking platform. Airlines, ocean carriers, thousands of freight forwarders, and well over ten thousand importers and exporters connect on Freightos, making world trade faster, more efficient and more resilient.
The Freightos platform digitizes the trillion dollar international freight industry, supported by a suite of software solutions that span pricing, quoting, booking, shipment management, and payments for global businesses of all shapes and sizes. Products include the Freightos Marketplace, WebCargo, WebCargo for Airlines, 7LFreight by WebCargo, Shipsta by Freightos, and Clearit.
Freightos is a leading provider of real-time industry data via Freightos Terminal, which includes the world’s leading spot pricing indexes, Freightos Air Index (FAX) for air cargo and Freightos Baltic Index (FBX) for container shipping.
In recent months, the landscape of global trade has been marked by significant changes, driven by rising tariffs, evolving supply chain strategies, and geopolitical influences.
The US Department of Commerce has reported a spike in penalties for import and export violations, with fines set to increase soon. This includes breaches related to seafood, wildlife, and the 2018 Export Controls Act. Hugo Pakula, CEO of Tru Identity, emphasized the importance of compliance, stating, “It has never been more important to stay ahead of non-compliance – and it has never been more costly [not to comply].”
Meanwhile, Mexico has announced increased tariffs on apparel imports, impacting companies leveraging nearshoring strategies. Ryan Martin, president of ITS Logistics, noted, “The increased tariffs and cessation of duty-free imports puts apparel brands in a scramble to find alternative fulfillment solutions.”
In the US, incoming President Donald Trump plans to impose new tariffs on goods from Mexico, Canada, and China, potentially affecting trade dynamics. John Manners-Bell, founder of Transport Intelligence, highlighted the potential impact on China’s Belt & Road Initiative, stating, “President Trump’s tariff policy may provide additional momentum to the project as a result of Chinese manufacturers off-shoring production to neighboring countries.”
The air cargo industry is also experiencing shifts, with TIACA’s Director-General, Glyn Hughes, noting that increased tariffs could boost air cargo demand. However, he warned of capacity constraints, especially with potential strike action by the International Longshoremen’s Association. “I don’t think the air cargo sector has the capacity to move more than a microscopic percentage of the ocean freight affected by the strike,” Hughes commented.
As global trade continues to evolve, companies are urged to adapt their strategies to navigate these complex challenges and seize new opportunities.
Cathay Cargo has announced the appointment of Siddhant Iyer as its new Head of Cargo Global Partnerships. Iyer, who has over 15 years of experience with the company, will focus on strengthening and expanding the airline’s global partnerships. His extensive regional expertise is expected to enhance relationships with key stakeholders worldwide.
Iyer began his career with Cathay Cargo in Bengaluru, India, as Area Services Manager and has since held various roles, gaining a deep understanding of the air cargo sector. He succeeds Chris Bowden, who will transition to a new role as Group General Manager of Safety & Quality at Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company (HAECO) in March 2025.
Also Read: ECS Group Signs First-Ever TCM Contract with JetSMART Airlines in South America.
Cathay Cargo expressed its gratitude to Bowden for his contributions, stating, “We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Chris and wish him every success in his new position at HAECO. With Siddhant succeeding him, we are excited for the future of Cathay Cargo and the continued growth of our global partnerships.”
Iyer’s appointment marks a significant step for Cathay Cargo as it continues to enhance its position in the global air cargo market. “Siddhant’s wealth of experience in the region shall prove invaluable in building further on the relationships with our global partners,” the company added.
Global Crossing Airlines Group (GlobalX) will lease an A321 passenger to freighter (P2F) aircraft from Cargo Aircraft Management (CAM), a subsidiary of Air Transport Services Group (ATSG).
The aircraft is set to be delivered in October this year.
“We are pleased to be able to lease our first A321 freighter from CAM, a worldwide leader in cargo aircraft conversions and leasing, and we greatly appreciate ATSG’s support of our team and our business plan,” said Ed Wegel, chair and chief executive of GlobalX.
“Our A321F fleet has performed extremely well – with better fuel burn, and load and unload times for both main deck and lower belly of less than 45 minutes. The A321F takes 50% more volume than its narrowbody competitor and is quickly shaping up to be the 757 freighter replacement aircraft.
“ATSG is excited to partner with GlobalX as they continue their transformational growth,” stated Paul Chase, chief commercial officer for ATSG. “We continue to seek partnerships that expand our global leasing footprint with companies that focus on the customer by providing world class service and reliability.”
GlobalX took delivery of its second Airbus A321 passenger to freighter (P2F) conversion in June.
It received its first A321P2F in December last year after conversion by ST Engineering.
Maastricht Aachen Airport (MST) has appointed industry expert Jonas van Stekelenburg as interim Chief Executive Officer (CEO), to lead an ambitious growth program.
The airport’s new holding company, NV HBLM, has made the change to drive MST’s strategic goals of enhanced sustainability, digitalization, and cargo and passenger development.
Van Stekelenburg brings extensive aviation expertise to the role, having already provided advisory services to MST’s management and supervisory board.
With a distinguished career spanning from 2002 to 2018 at the Royal Schiphol Group, van Stekelenburg is well-positioned to guide MST through its transitional phase.
“Our strategy is focused on delivering a resilient, sustainable, and environmentally conscious airport for the local community and its future,” said van Stekelenburg, CEO, Maastricht Aachen Airport.
“I thank my predecessor Jos Roeven for the great job he did, which has led to the strong foundation upon which we can now build.
“Moving forward, we are dedicated to furthering the sustainable evolution of MST’s operations and advancing both our passenger and cargo services.”
The changes come as part of a strategic initiative following the joint investment commitment of the Provincial Council of Limburg and the Royal Schiphol Group.
A prominent figure in MST’s journey, former CEO Jos Roeven, said: “My initial plan was to lead MST for five years when I started in 2017.
“That journey extended to six and a half years – a period during which our team achieved remarkable milestones in cargo and passenger volumes.
“I take immense pride in our collective accomplishments. The airport is now poised to ascend to greater heights, fueled by its collaboration with the Royal Schiphol Group.”
Van Stekelenburg will assume the role of CEO from September for an initial term of nine months.
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
