Chapman Freeborn Celebrates 20 Years in China

Chapman Freeborn marks 20 years in China, having opened its first offices in Beijing and Hong Kong in 2004.

Chapman Freeborn’s China operations expanded over 20 years, opening five offices and leveraging capacity to enter new markets like e-commerce.

“Over the last twenty years, Chapman Freeborn has cemented its place as a trusted partner across Greater China, strengthening resilience across supply chains,” said Allen Liu, President – Greater China, Chapman Freeborn.

“In an uncertain world, air cargo charter services offer a genuine alternative to scheduled flights, providing the flexibility needed to fulfil time critical deliveries and prevent spiralling costs.

Read – Riege Software Integrates CargoAi for Enhanced TMS Capabilities

“As we look to the future, I am determined to build on last year’s double-digit growth in chartered flights, implement our long-term strategy to increase cargo capacity, and strengthen our freight forwarding business while deepening our commitment to the Chinese market.”

Liu joined Chapman Freeborn in 2012, held key roles, and established regional offices in Shenzhen and Chengdu as VP of Cargo.

The company will celebrate its 20th anniversary with receptions for air freight leaders later this year and in October in Singapore.

Chapman Freeborn Appoints New VP

In January, Chapman Freeborn announced the appointment of Cam Bolton-Wilson as Vice President of its Humanitarian and Government division in the Americas. Known as Bolts, Bolton-Wilson brings extensive experience to the role. He served six years as a Commando in the UK’s Royal Marines and spent 18 years in the defense and humanitarian sectors. His leadership roles included positions in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Yemen.

Eric Erbacher, CEO of Chapman Freeborn, highlighted the increasing demand from government and humanitarian sectors. He noted that Bolts’ 24 years of military and humanitarian experience make him a natural fit for the role. Bolts will play a key role in Chapman Freeborn’s expansion in the coming years.

Chapman Freeborn supports the United Nations World Food Programme. The company provides emergency airlift support, air bridges, and strategic freight hubs during crises. Bolton-Wilson emphasized the importance of humanitarian airlifts, having witnessed their impact firsthand. He aims to ensure Chapman Freeborn remains the preferred charter broker for humanitarian efforts in the Americas.

In November, Chapman Freeborn appointed Bernardo Nunes as Global Chief Operating Officer. This move is part of its ongoing recruitment strategy. The company continues to strengthen its leadership team to support its growth and mission.

Chapman Freeborn Partners with AJEX to Strengthen Saudi Operations

Charterer ramps up its ground handling and project cargo capabilities as Vision 2030 gathers pace.

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.