IAG announces strong Q2 revenue on its 10th anniversary

 IAG announces strong Q2 revenue on its 10th anniversary

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), reported a strong Q2 revenue amid a confident outlook for the cargo business and in-line with an improved air-cargo market.

IAG Cargo achieved revenues of €419 million from April 1 to June 30 2021; an increase of 17.3 percent at constant currency versus the same period last year. Overall yield for the quarter was down 32.1 per cent at constant currency versus last year reflecting the increase in market capacity, while sold tonnes more than offset the decline and were up 56.2 per cent. The Q2 results take IAG Cargo’s half year revenue to €769m, up 25 per cent on the first half of 2020.

Ecommerce continued to be a major driver of activity in the quarter, with the business moving a diverse range of products from fashion and electronics to sporting equipment. The quarter also saw a very significant increase in the movement of Italian wine into the USA – 95,000 bottles.

In Q2 IAG Cargo, together with the passenger business launched additional joint cargo-passenger flights as some governments eased restrictions. Activity from Spain to Latin America increased as a result, with additional frequencies to Sao Paolo and Mexico City and a resumption of services into Guayaquil and San Juan.

During the quarter IAG Cargo operated an extensive charter programme on top of its cargo-only schedule. This included flights operated for charity with British Airways, providing medical equipment and relief into India as the country experienced a rapid rise in COVID-19 cases.

GECAS to operate more than 40 737-800 converted freighter fleet

 GECAS to operate more than 40 737-800 converted freighter fleet

GECAS has contracted to add six 737-800BCFs to its in-service fleet, bringing the GECAS fleet of passenger-to-freighter (P2F) converted 737-800NG narrow body freighters in operation to more than 40. On an average, one aircraft has been added per month since the world’s first 737-800NG Converted Freighter was delivered in April 2018. Two of the aircraft will be added to ATRAN’s fleet and the remaining four with undisclosed operators.

A repeat customer, Volga-Dnepr Group’s ATRAN LLC recently took delivery of two 738BCF from GECAS and will add two more of the P2F narrow bodies to their operations in September. 

“In today’s highly competitive landscape marked by capacity constraints, it is important to keep pace with the demand and guarantee stable, high-quality services for our customers. These reliable converted freighters will support our ongoing fleet development strategy, enable smooth phase-out of older freighters and ramp up our delivery options,” said Vitaliy Andreev, general director of ATRAN Airlines.

“The team at GECAS Cargo takes pride in ensuring our airline clients are afforded a steady flow of available Boeing converted freighters to enter service on time and meet the demand of the Air Cargo networks,” explains Richard Greener, SVP and manager of GECAS Cargo. “We are delighted to support the replacement growth strategies of ATRAN with these additional operating leases for 737-800BCFs.”

SkyCell announces sustainability report, commit for greener pharma supply chain

 SkyCell announces sustainability report, commit for greener pharma supply chain

Switzerland based SkyCell, global pharma supply chain releases its first Sustainability Report. As part of their commitment towards a more sustainable future, the company’s mission is to be carbon neutral by 2040 and lead the way to a more sustainable pharma supply chain. The sustainability report is dedicated to the sustainability of our global operations and our initiatives for the planet and our stakeholders.  

Since the company’s creation in 2012, SkyCell has held Environmental, Sustainability and Governance (ESG) at the core of its operations. To help combat climate change, SkyCell has committed in 2021, to the Paris Climate Agreement, in addition to having our emission targets approved by the Science-Based Targets initiative. 

Richard Ettl, CEO and co-founder at Skycell, “Safeguarding our planet from the detrimental impact of climate change is not only important to me as a father, but I see it as the duty of any successful business."

This report comes at a time when action today is a necessity, within the industry and across the world. We are in conversations with the business partners and suppliers within the pharma supply to ensure we are all operating with a sustainable future in mind. 

In an effort to help #MoveTheDate of Earth Overshoot Day, businesses around the world must endeavour to lower their company's footprint - which SkyCell is aiming to achieve throughout the supply chain with a multitude of targets outlined in our report. 

DHL Express delivers 1.5m Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine doses to Thailand

 DHL Express delivers 1.5m Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine doses to Thailand

DHL Express successfully delivered the first batch of 1.5 million Pfizer-BioNTech’s Covid-19 vaccine doses to Thailand. From door-to-door in just three days, DHL Express flew the vaccines in thermal packaging and subsequently arranged for it to be sent directly to a designated warehouse in Thailand. 

The arrival of 1.5 million doses, part of the US donation to Southeast Asian countries, aims to help Thailand and the region accelerate their vaccination programs and provide equitable access to immunization as to keep their populations safe, and ensure that their economies can recover quickly. 

Turkish Cargo is exporting Turkish rose products for the last half century

 Turkish Cargo is exporting Turkish rose products for the last half century

Turkish Cargo also contributes greatly to Turkey’s exports.  For over the last 60 years, Flag carrier air cargo brand has been carrying the rose products produced in Anatolia’s Lake District and Isparta to various destinations such as the prominent countries in perfume and essence industry like Germany, France, China and United States. 

Roses collected during May and June in Isparta and Lake District, considered as the rose garden of the world, are turned into rose oil, rose oil solid and rose water via special processes. Meeting the 65 percent of the world’s demand for rose oil, Turkey is ideal for growing first class roses when it comes to quality with its favorable climate conditions. 

Havas Latvia gets renewed ISAGO certificate by IATA

 Havas Latvia gets renewed ISAGO certificate by IATA

Havas Latvia that offers full-fledged ground handling service at Riga airport, has been awarded to renew its ISAGO certificate given by IATA. For the ISAGO certificate that documents the conformity of operation safety standards to the international norms, Hava?’s activities went through audits in terms of organization and management, load control, passenger and baggage handling, aircraft handling and loading as well as aircraft ground movements.

Havas has an experience in ground handling brand of TAV Airports, a member of ADP Group. Moreover, Havas has been the sole ground handling company that is awarded with ISAGO certificate of IATA at Riga Airport since 2011.

Havas general manager S. Mete Erna stated, “We have been operating at Riga Airport since 2010. With the synergy we created together with ADP and TAV Group, we transfer all our experience and know-how to our Riga operations as a company which has been operating in this sector for years. We have contributed in the achievements of our business partners in Riga such as becoming the most punctual airlines in the world and in Europe as well as receiving 5-stars in Covid-19 safety rating of Skytrax. We have been the sole ground handling company awarded with ISAGO certificate at Riga Airport in the past 10 years. We are glad to get certified our operation safety standards and service quality once again with our renewed ISAGO certificate. We will continue to provide the most reliable and high-quality services for our airlines business partners in Riga.

DB Schenker acquires Finnish logistics group Vähälä Yhtiöt

 DB Schenker acquires Finnish logistics group Vähälä Yhtiöt

DB Schenker is continuing on its course of growth in Finland. Five terminals and more than 260 employees are now joining the network of the leading logistics provider in northern Europe, as DB Schenker in Finland has concluded an agreement to acquire the entire share capital of Vähälä Logistics Oy and its wholly-owned subsidiaries, together known as Vähälä Yhtiöt.

The Finnish family-owned logistics group was founded in 1937 and offers domestic land transport services in central and northern Finland as a partner of the DB Schenker network. This cooperation dates back to 1956.

"With this acquisition, we are strengthening DB Schenker's position in Europe,” says Helmut Schweighofer, CEO of DB Schenker in Europe. “With the takeover of Vähälä Yhtiöt, a company that already operates for DB Schenker in Finland, we have the opportunity to expand the structure of DB Schenker's land transport network in central and northern Finland.”

Vähälä Yhtiöt has 265 employees and is a pioneer in eco-friendly transportation through its use of gas powered trucks and electric vans, as well as long HCT trailers. According to the agreement, Vähälä Yhtiöt’s entire operating business will be acquired by DB Schenker. Both parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.

Following the conclusion of the agreement, Vähälä Yhtiöt will continue to operate over the medium-term as an independent affiliate in domestic land transport, alongside DB Schenker in Finland.

David Barker promoted as DSVP for Airport Operations

 David Barker promoted as DSVP for Airport Operations

dnata, a leading global air and travel services provider, announced the promotion of David Barker as Divisional Senior Vice President (DSVP) for Airport Operations. He will be leading dnata’s global ground handling and cargo business.

David has been with dnata for over six years, currently leading the company’s extensive airport operations in the USA as chief executive officer. In his new role David will oversee dnata’s global ground handling and cargo business at 91 airports in 14 countries, managing a team of over 23,000 customer-oriented aviation professionals.

David will be based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and report to Steve Allen, dnata’s executive vice president. He will take on his new role on August 1, replacing Stewart Angus who decided to leave dnata for family reasons, after 16 successful years.

Steve Allen said, “I’m delighted to welcome David to dnata’s global management team. Over the past years, David has made outstanding achievements as our regional leader, playing a key role in the expansion of dnata’s operations and customer base in the United States. His passion for service excellence will ensure the highest level of quality and safety across our global airport operations.”

“I’d also like to take the opportunity to thank Stewart for his hard work and significant contribution to dnata’s development over the past 16 years. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”

David joined dnata in 2015 with over two decades of experience in the aviation industry. In his current role as dnata USA’s CEO, he has more than doubled the size of the company’s business in the country, won many new customers, and successfully integrated a highly motivated team into the global dnata community. 

Volga-Dnepr enables Pentagon Freight Services to accomplish shipment to Oman

Volga-Dnepr enables Pentagon Freight Services to accomplish shipment to Oman 

Volga-Dnepr Airlines, the acknowledged leader in providing outsized and super heavy transportation by air, recently played an essential part in the implementation of the large-scale Omani Oil and Gas project with a smooth and seamless delivery of two gigantic oil well rigs to the capital of Oman.

The complex delivery for two advanced automated well service rigs, weighing almost 120 tons, was accomplished in partnership with Pentagon Freight Services Canada Ltd., who engaged Volga-Dnepr for a timely and efficient logistics solution to meet the end-user’s stringent delivery time whilst overcoming many challenging aspects of loading and required detailed and complex computer modelling to ensure they were safely loaded for transportation. The 6-leg flight, lasting 5 days, was organized from Calgary (Canada) to Muscat (Oman) aboard one of Volga-Dnepr’s modernized An-124-150 which has an extended payload carrying up to 150 tons including loading equipment.

Sophisticated state of the art drilling equipment, which was produced and manufactured within record time by Highwood Equipment Technologies, was loaded onto the An-124-150 with the use of specialized ramp extensions. The advanced automated oil well rigs are to be used in partnership with Al Shawamikh Oil Services within the Petroleum Development Oman’s (PDO) assigned concession areas of Bahla and Adam in North Oman.

Adrian Pruden, Vice president of Pentagon Freight Services Canada praised Volga-Dnepr and their operations and flight crew for the smooth seamless operation. “Pentagon and Highwood Technologies were very pleased and fortunate to work alongside such industry experts to properly plan and execute such a time sensitive project. Another well executed job by Volga-Dnepr and we look forward to the next one!”

Ekaterina Andreeva, commercial director of Volga-Dnepr Airlines, highlights, ‘For more than three-decades, we have supported customers from the Oil and Gas sector, offering customized solutions and masterminding complex project shipments. Amid the pandemic, we have seen a significant reduction in this sector due to local restrictions and slowing down of production rates, and we are more than happy to work on another challenging project with our long-standing global partner, Pentagon Freight Services, as we have done throughout 20 years of our fruitful cooperation.'

Drone Delivery Canada issued Canadian transportation agency license

Drone Delivery Canada issued Canadian transportation agency license

Drone Delivery Canada Corp. (DDC) is pleased to announce that it has become the first publicly traded drone delivery company to be granted a Canadian transportation agency license. It is a domestic cargo license under the Canada Transportation Act (CTA) and Air Transport Regulations (Canada). This licence, normally issued to airlines that provide passenger or cargo services, is a critical step to the continued expansion and scaling of DDC operations.

Such CTA licence is mandatory for any air carrier intending to provide scheduled, commercial air services in Canada, whether carrying cargo or passengers. With the granting of the CTA licence, DDC continues its progress toward routine, sustainable and scalable cargo delivery operations intended to address logistical challenges and opportunities throughout Canada. Obtaining this licence allows for the Company to continue developing new drone delivery use cases, as well as the potential expansion of ongoing operations, such as those recently announced for Edmonton International Airport and Fraser Lake, British Columbia.

DDC would like to acknowledge the support and assistance provided by the Canadian Transportation Agency and Transport Canada Civil Aviation.  Their continued focus on innovation helps to advance the remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS) industry in Canada.

“The granting of our CTA licence is a key milestone for us. As a leader in the drone delivery industry, DDC continues to ensure regulatory compliance while at the same time providing critical services to our clients. We are pleased with our continued successful progress on regulations, technology and customer revenue projects as we build our scalable commercial capabilities,” said Michael Zahra, president and CEO Drone Delivery Canada Corp.

Qatar Airways Cargo joins Cool Chain Association to increase sustainability

 Qatar Airways Cargo joins Cool Chain Association to increase sustainability

Qatar Airways Cargo has extended its cool chain industry partnerships by joining Cool Chain Association (CCA), a non-profit organisation, effective 28 July 2021. Founded in 2003, the association aims to reduce food wastage and improve the quality, efficiency and value of the temperature sensitive supply chain by facilitating and enabling vertical and horizontal collaboration, education and innovation amongst its members and stakeholders.

Guillaume Halleux, chief officer cargo at Qatar Airways said, “Through our membership with Cool Chain Association, we look forward to collaborating with its members, and contributing to CCA’s vision of improving quality of temperature-sensitive products, increasing sustainability and reducing waste, thereby also contributing to the health of the planet, which aligns with our sustainability programme WeQare.”

“CCA members are focused on developing tangible programmes and backing projects which help reduce food waste and ensure that lifesaving pharma consignments safely reach their destination and this has never been more relevant than now,” said Stavros Engelakakis, chairman, CCA.

“We are pleased that the cargo carrier’s Senior Manager of Climate Control Products, Miguel Rodriguez Moreno is joining the board, Qatar Airways Cargo’s shared commitment to our goals and its vision for WeQare combined with Miguel’s wealth of experience in the cool chain supply chain makes him the perfect addition to our association.”

Qatar Airways Cargo will join CCA and its members to deliver contributions in improving the cool chain and sustainable transport of temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical and perishable cargo. Such concrete contributions like the CCA Technical Committee, that oversees and assists in projects addressing critical points affecting product quality along the cool chain, as well as developing standards and initiating projects will indirectly reduce global hunger and contribute to overall health of people and the planet. Through the membership, the airline will also participate in Cool Chain Association’s board meetings and focus groups to contribute its expertise.

Boeing releases first Sustainability Report, shares plan for future aerospace

 Boeing releases first Sustainability Report, shares plan for future aerospace

Boeing released its first Sustainability Report, in which the company shares its vision for the future of sustainable aerospace, establishes broad sustainability goals and highlights environmental, social and governance (ESG) progress in alignment with global sustainability standards.

"In September 2020, amidst a global pandemic, Boeing formed a sustainability organization dedicated to advancing our ESG efforts across the enterprise. As we continue on this journey, we are pleased to publish our first comprehensive report, focused on stakeholder responsiveness and data transparency," said Boeing chief sustainability officer Chris Raymond. 

"We know there's still work to do and are committed to communicating our progress and holding ourselves accountable to ensure the aerospace industry is safe and sustainable for generations to come."

Boeing's sustainability efforts are organized around four key pillars: people, products and services, operations and communities. In 2020, highlights across these four pillars included:

• Establishing six broad new sustainability goals in alignment with our key sustainability priorities and stakeholder interests.
  
• Defining the company's vision for the future of sustainable aerospace through fleet renewal, network operational efficiency, renewable energy and advanced technology.
• Committing to deliver commercial airplanes capable of flying on 100% sustainable fuels by 2030.
• Partnering with Etihad Airways on the 2020 ecoDemonstrator program, which tested sustainable technologies on one of the airline's new 787-10 Dreamliners.
• Implementing digital engineering tools on the T-7A Red Hawk program, achieving a 75 percent increase in first-time engineering quality and an 80 percent reduction in assembly hours.
• Advancing flight tests for Cora, an all-electric, self-flying air taxi developed by Boeing and Kitty Hawk joint venture Wisk.
• Responding to COVID-19 by executing airlift missions to transport supplies, providing community vaccination sites and minimizing air travel health risks through the Confident Travel Initiative.
• Establishing a 20-member Racial Equity Task Force to represent diverse viewpoints and amplify all voices at Boeing.
• Setting 2030 environmental performance goals to reduce emissions, waste, water use and energy consumption.
• Achieving net-zero carbon emissions at work sites, while reducing energy consumption by 12 percent, water use by 23 percent, solid waste by 44 percent and hazardous waste by 34 percent.
• Attaining the ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year Award for Sustained Excellence every year since 2010.
• Contributing $234 million in community giving, working with 13,400 community partners and volunteering 250,000 hours.

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. 

EL AL expands digital footprint with WebCargo

 EL AL expands digital footprint with WebCargo

EL AL Israel Airlines is accelerating its digital presence with real-time eBookings, access to live rates, and visible air cargo capacity through WebCargo, a Freightos Group company. With the pandemic fueling digital adoption among both carriers and forwarders, EL AL is tapping into WebCargo’s platform.

EL AL Cargo will be rolling out on WebCargo across a network covering the United States, Europe, and Asia, offering freight solutions for all types of customers and freight. This engagement enables more than 2,500 WebCargo forwarders across over 10,000 global branches instant access to capacity, pricing, and booking on EL AL Cargo.

"Digital adoption has always been a top priority for EL AL, and as air cargo demand continues to rise, providing our customers with instant and accurate information is essential,” said Mr. Ronen Spira, head of EL AL Cargo division.

“Through our engagement with WebCargo, we look forward to providing our customers with comprehensive digital solutions and widening our digital offerings for freight forwarders across the globe.’

“Digital Air Cargo has taken off since the beginning of the pandemic and has reached a critical point in market adoption where eBookings are a must rather than a want,” said Zvi Schreiber, CEO of the Freightos Group “We’re proud to partner with EL AL Cargo as we continue expanding the global network and range of offerings available to WebCargo forwarders.”

In October 2019, EL AL Israel Airlines Cargo joined digital air cargo booking platform cargo.one and added its cargo capacities to the multi-airline platform. 

Amerijet appoints Chris Mazzeo as VP of Global Operations

 Amerijet appoints Chris Mazzeo as VP of Global Operations

Amerijet is pleased to welcome Chris Mazzeo as the new VP of Global Operations. Chris is known as a transformational leader with over 30 years of industry experience. His background includes international and domestic logistics for air and ground transportation, cargo sales, and operations leadership.

“We are extremely happy to add Chris to the Amerijet team as our New VP of Global Operations. Chris brings a wealth of experience and knowledge that will help Amerijet as we expand worldwide,” said chief operating officer, Brian Beach.

Chris Mazzeo previously served as an IATA consultant and has extensive knowledge of global supply chain management. He has a proven history of growing revenue and improving efficiency. Chris and his family are currently relocating to Miami from Kentucky.

deugro delivered 157 mt of cargo for Ouargla project in Algeria

 deugro delivered 157 mt of cargo for Ouargla project in Algeria

deugro delivered the time-critical equipment with a volume of 1,352 m3 for an Algerian project located in Ouargla, in the southern part of the country. Arkad S.p.A. awarded deugro this transport from Italy to Algeria. 

deugro Italy worked hard with their client over a period of 10 days to design and deliver a swift and reliable marine solution to ship the urgently needed equipment from the loading ports Marina di Carrara and Livorno, Italy to the Port of Skikda, Algeria. 

The shipment took place on May 11 and encompassed a 74-metric-ton cargo with dimensions of 11.19 x 4.32 x 4.69 meters, and its ancillaries. The item made up nearly half of the overall 157-metric-tons cargo weight. 

As part of the end-to-end logistics scope, deugro Italy’s expert team also organized the safe onward road transport of the equipment to site at Ouargla, Algeria to ensure the client’s project timescales were achieved. “deugro Italy is proud to have been entrusted by Arkad S.p.A. with the transport of this time-critical equipment for this important project,” said Valentina Fantasia, Senior Project Coordinator, deugro Italy. “deugro’s long-standing experience and excellent network provide our clients with the decisive advantage.”

Lufthansa Cargo markets new tourist airline Eurowings Discover

 Lufthansa Cargo markets new tourist airline Eurowings Discover

Lufthansa Cargo is now marketing the freight capacities of the new long-haul flights of Eurowings Discover. Europe's leading cargo airline is thus adding further frequencies directly from Frankfurt to the range of services it offers its customers. Initially, routes to the Dominican Republic, Kenya, Namibia and Tanzania will expand the offer.

As of today, the new Eurowings Discover flights will provide customers with two additional connections per week to Mombasa and Zanzibar. From the second of August, this will be followed by further supplementary services to Punta Cana with a weekly frequency of three flights, as well as to Windhoek on five days a week.

"The integration of the freight capacities of Eurowings Discover makes the offer even more attractive for our customers," emphasises Ashwin Bhat, chief commercial officer at Lufthansa Cargo. "The increasing frequencies ideally complement our existing connections and help our customers in times of still scarce capacities. We are also pleased to be able to make a valuable contribution to the success of the new Lufthansa Airline by marketing the new Eurowings Discover capacities."

Eurowings Discover is the new tourist airline of the Lufthansa Group and a wholly owned subsidiary of Deutsche Lufthansa AG. The first Eurowings Discover aircraft loaded with cargo took off from its home airport of Frankfurt am Main on Saturday for its inaugural flight to Mombasa with onward service to Zanzibar. From October, Eurowings Discover is planning further flights to Las Vegas and Mauritius. In the 2021 winter flight schedule, Bridgetown, Montego Bay and Varadero will be added with three weekly frequencies each. In addition, the flight programme will be expanded from November to five weekly frequencies to Cancún as well as to medium-haul destinations such as the Canary Islands, Egypt and Morocco.

TAP Air Cargo connects CargoAi to deploy its cargo offer worldwide

 TAP Air Cargo connects CargoAi to deploy its cargo offer worldwide

TAP Air Cargo is embarking on a new step of rationalisation of these freight reservation management processes by connecting with CargoAi. The primary objective of TAP Air Cargo is to offer its clients new, reliable, and customised services.

 By choosing CargoAi to deploy its cargo offer, the company has achieved its objective and is also offering them a new ultra-modern digital solution to support their activities.

“TAP Air Cargo has implemented modern digital solutions to allow its clients to manage the process of transporting their freight in an independent manner. CargoAi quintessentially represents this model, with a highly intuitive and simple use of e-quote and e-booking functionalities. A genuine self-service platform for stakeholders in the field of aerial freight”, says Bernardo Nunes, director cargo business development and transformation, TAP Air Cargo.

“From its Hub in Lisbon, TAP Air Cargo covers all continents with an average of 2500 flights per week, thanks to a modern fleet of 80 cargo transport aircraft. It is exactly this type of transport solution that is sought by freight forwarders and we are very proud to be able to offer it to them via the CargoAi platform”, explains Matthieu Petot, CEO of CargoAi.

A win-win partnership which perfectly meets the burgeoning needs of the sector for digital solutions that are simple to use, easy to implement, and which provide valuable advantages in terms of responsiveness, reliability, and availability. 

Air Canada Cargo achieves $358 million revenue; reports Q2 2021

Air Canada Cargo achieves $358 million revenue; reports Q2 2021

Air Canada Cargo, the cargo division of Air Canada announces their quarterly results. They believe this quarter has seen their best performance ever. 

Canada’s largest airline and the flag carrier’s, Air Canada Cargo, achieved a record $358 million in revenue. This represents an increase of $89 million, or 33 percent compared to the same quarter in 2020.

The second quarter results were recently announced and the highlight of the financial numbers for the North American carrier was the cargo revenue.

“We’re tremendously proud of the strongest quarterly results Air Canada Cargo has ever seen, which are a testament to our continued efforts to maintain stable and consistent capacity flows for our customers across the globe through cargo-only flying,” said Matthieu Casey, senior director, cargo global sales and revenue optimization at Air Canada.

Uber Freight to acquire Transplace for $2.25 billion

 Uber Freight to acquire Transplace for $2.25 billion

Uber’s logistics arm Uber Freight and leading logistics technology provider Transplace have entered into a definitive agreement for Uber Freight to acquire Transplace for approximately $2.25 billion, consisting of up to $750 million in common stock of Uber Freight’s parent company, Uber Technologies, Inc. and the remainder in cash.

As per a release by Transplace, Uber Freight will acquire Transplace from TPG Capital, the private equity platform of alternative asset firm TPG. “Uber Freight’s acquisition of Transplace will create one of the leading logistics technology platforms, with one of the largest and most comprehensive managed transportation and logistics networks in the world. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and other customary closing conditions,” the release cited.

The acquisition comes at a time of accelerated transformation in logistics. The demands of a volatile market and the increasing complexity of globalized logistics are clashing with industrial-age transportation technology. The partnership is expected to ultimately power and connect truck drivers with shippers who want their cargo delivered.

“This is a significant step forward, not just for Uber Freight but for the entire logistics ecosystem. This is an opportunity to bring together complementary best-in-class technology solutions and operational excellence from two premier companies to create an industry-first shipper-to-carrier platform that will transform shippers’ entire supply chains, delivering operational resilience and reducing costs at a time when it matters most,” said Lior Ron, Head of Uber Freight.

Battling capacity constraints and escalating transportation costs, shippers are adapting their operations at an increasing pace and looking for technology, support, and solutions that can modernize their supply chain and keep critical goods, and the economy, moving.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol freight figures improve year-on-year

 Amsterdam Airport Schiphol freight figures improve year-on-year

According to a recent announcement by Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, they airport made a good progress in the first half of this year. It processed 837,671 tonnes of cargo in the first six months of 2021, which is up 27.7 percent on last year, with freighter flights up 23.5 percent. 

In the first six months of 2020, there has been an increase in the inbound freight tonnage by around 29.5 percent and outbound up 25.7 percent. Pre-pandemic cargo figures for the first six months of 2019 were 385,319 tonnes for inbound and 382,200 tonnes for outbound cargo.

Full freighter flights for the first six months of 2021 were up 23.5 percent year-on-year at 12,691 flights, with bellyhold flights down 30.6 percent at 73,346 flights.

Pre-pandemic figures for the first half of 2019 were 412,372 tonnes carried on 6,938 full freighter flights and 355,147 tonnes carried on 235,169 passenger flights.

Schiphol has been facing capacity shortages for freighters due to slot restrictions and airport is working to resolve the situation with the Dutch Government and cargo community.

American Airlines release second-quarter 2021 report; will improve balance sheet

 American Airlines release second-quarter 2021 report; will improve balance sheet

American Airlines Group Inc.has published its second-quarter 2021 financial results. Find out the details below: 

• Second-quarter net profit of $19 million, or $0.03 per diluted share. Excluding net special items, second-quarter net loss of $1.1 billion, or ($1.69) per share.
• Second-quarter revenue of $7.5 billion, up 87 percent sequentially from the first quarter of 2021.
• Ended the second quarter with approximately $21.3 billion of total available liquidity, a record for the company.
• Accelerated the deleveraging process with prepayment of $950 million spare parts term loan.
• Company plans to pay down approximately $15 billion of debt by the end of 2025.

In March 2021, CEO Doug Parker revealed the company’s 2021 Green Flag Plan. The aims is to focus on doubling double down operational excellence, reconnect with customers, build on team momentum and passionately pursue efficiencies.

“We have taken a number of steps to solidify our business through our Green Flag Plan and it shows in our second-quarter results,” said American’s chairman and CEO Doug Parker. “We have reshaped our network, simplified our fleet and made our cost structure more efficient, all to create an airline that will outperform competitors and deliver for customers. The green flag plan has dropped and we are ready thanks to the tremendous efforts and dedication of the American Airlines team.”

American is committed to improving its balance sheet. The company now expects to reduce its debt by more than $15 billion by the end of 2025 versus its previous guidance of $8 billion to $10 billion.

MIC Cargo responds to the perception of O'Hare International Airport losing business

 MIC Cargo responds to the perception of O'Hare International Airport losing business

Chicago-based ground handler MIC Cargo and a portfolio company of Inoa Ventures, are pushing back against the widely held perception that Chicago's O'Hare International Airport is an overly-congested hub losing business to nearby cargo-focused airports in places like Rockford, Illinois and Columbus, Ohio.

"We know how much freight by weight and value comes through O'Hare," said Edip Pektas, MIC Cargo's CEO. "By the numbers, O'Hare is number one in the country by value and with over 213,000 tons (nearly 470 million pounds) of cargo and mail arriving and departing in May alone, it will take a constellation of solutions involving people, processes, infrastructure, and technology to ensure continuity of operations as we try to emerge from the pandemic."

MIC Cargo's internal systems are focused on relentlessly measuring KPI's persistently finding areas of excellence and opportunities for improvement. Truckers arriving at MIC's 90,000 square-foot Patton Avenue facility arrive and depart in an average of 55 minutes.

MIC's ULD bypass system further enhances speed to delivery after cargo arrival, offering ULD pickup two hours after arrival, and loose freight broken down and available within six hours.

DRONAMICS and DHL partner for cargo drone deliveries

DRONAMICS and DHL partner for cargo drone deliveries

DHL and DRONAMICS have got into an agreement to develop solutions and offer same-day cargo drone deliveries to customers using DRONAMICS’ drone delivery network and Black Swan drones. 

Both companies are discussing mutual exclusivity for middle-mile drone deliveries in selected industries and markets. In addition, DRONAMICS’ goal to become carbon-negative by 2027 and direction to operate on sustainable biofuels in the future will play a part in helping DHL achieve its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050.

“Innovation is a key part of DHL’s DNA. We are constantly exploring new technologies to bring value to our customers, and we believe that cargo drones will be an element in the next generation of transportation in logistics. DRONAMICS is a pioneer and leader in the field of cargo drones and our collaboration will help to open up opportunities for urgent, sensitive and time-critical deliveries. We are excited to pilot the use of the Black Swan in customer operations in the near future,”said Matthias Heutger, senior vice president, global head of innovation and commercial development at DHL.

“We are incredibly excited that DRONAMICS has been selected by DHL, the world’s largest logistics provider as their first middle-mile drone partner, with a partnership that provides mutual exclusivity in selected industries and markets. This partnership has the potential to generate €1.86 Bn to DRONAMICS’ revenues annually, with plans underway to build and operate over 4,000 cargo drones to support the partnership in the coming years,” said Svilen Rangelov, co-founder and CEO of DRONAMICS.

 American Airlines aim to reduce GHG by 2035 with a science based target

American Airlines (American) announced its commitment towards setting a science-based target for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This move will sharpen the company’s strategy for reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, align its path with the global imperative of limiting temperature rise to well below 2°C, and bring additional accountability to its approach.

American is said to be the first airline in North America to begin the validation process with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), a collaboration between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). In doing so, American is committing to develop a 2035 emissions reduction target that will be reviewed by the SBTi to confirm its consistency with the latest climate science.

“We are building American Airlines to thrive forever, which is why we set an ambitious goal to reach net-zero emissions by 2050,” said Doug Parker, chairman and CEO of American Airlines. “Now, we’re committing to set a science-based target for 2035 because the seriousness of the climate challenge demands it. We’ve already laid a strong foundation by prioritizing near-term solutions to reduce our emissions, like renewing our fleet with more fuel-efficient aircraft. Looking forward, we believe we have an obligation to our customers, team members, shareholders and the communities we serve to focus and accelerate our transition to operating a low-carbon airline. We view the work ahead as an opportunity to support the change necessary to protect our planet for future generations, and we welcome the accountability that comes with taking this step.”

Get ready for big supply chain overhaul in North America

 Get ready for big supply chain overhaul in North America

After completing just one month in the White House, the United States president Joe Biden on February 24, 2021, signed an executive order requiring a review of supply chains within 100 days triggered by pandemic-led disruptions.  On June 8, the White House released the report identifying the fragility of the US supply chains on four critical products: semiconductor manufacturing; large capacity batteries; critical minerals and materials; and pharmaceuticals and APIs. This pointed at underinvestment in domestic production, private sector prioritization of low-cost, unregulated labour markets and unfair trade practices by competitor countries.

The report is perceived as the completion of its first step towards significantly, if not completely, overhauling the global supply chains connected to the US and North America with wide-ranging reforms and geopolitical strategies.  So in the coming months and years, supply chain executives and companies not just in air cargo but across all modes should expect a significant shift in commodity flows.  

As a result of the capacity cut and surge in demand the North American markets has brought many changes in the air cargo operations including the increased demand for freighters, as belly capacity is down, and the increased activities in cargo gateway airports which caused several operational challenges to airports as well as airlines. 

North American domestic air cargo 

Despite the cargo surge and congestions reported in many North American Airports, the data released by the US Census Bureau in June 2021 shows that the ratio between inventory sizes and sales of US retailers dropped to a new historical low in April 2021. It shows the sheer size of supply-demand imbalance in the North American market.  

Jannie Davel, managing director commercial, Delta Cargo, informed that the airline has seen a strong increase in US domestic and cross-border e-commerce movements as well as high demand for pharma shipments, especially the Covid-19 vaccines.

Davel has identified a couple of trends in the air cargo industry as well.

Intradco Global rescues 88 dogs with Save Our Scruff from Costa Rica

 Intradco Global rescues 88 dogs with Save Our Scruff from Costa Rica

Intradco Global, world's leading equine and animal transportation air charter specialist, recently completed rehoming of 88 rescue dogs. The dogs were flown from Costa Rica to Canada where they would travel onwards to their new homes.

Intradco Global worked with Toronto-based rescue organisation, Save Our Scruff, who are dedicated to saving dogs and finding them loving, permanent homes. This specific rescue mission was nicknamed ‘Costapawlooza’ and it saw dogs from all over Costa Rica travelling from San Jose International Airport to Toronto Pearson International Airport.

The dogs travelled safely and securely in an Embraer 120 Brasilia cargo aircraft for the flight, which was 8 hours in total plus a short fuel stop in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Bengaluru Airport exports highest number of mangoes in June

 Bengaluru Airport exports highest number of mangoes in June

One of the best things about summer is the arrival of mangoes. India has been producing the finest and largest variety of mangoes in the world. While for mango lovers living abroad, they cannot resist but order mangoes from India. 

In 2021, the number of exports from India has hit the highest records. Kempegowda International Airport (BLR), Bengaluru has processed 483,460 kgs of mangoes in four months from March to June, 2021.

The month of June witnessed the highest movement of mangoes with 169,882 kgs. A total of 158,936 kgs were processed in May, 110,886 kgs in April and 43,776 in March. 

This year, Doha emerged as the leading destination for mangoes from Bengaluru, with 140,000 kgs, followed by London (68,000 kgs) and Singapore (55,000 kgs).

Embraer's Eve and EDP sign MOU for the development of eVTOL infrastructure

 Embraer's Eve and EDP sign MOU for the development of eVTOL infrastructure

Embraer´s Eve Urban Air Mobility Solutions (Eve) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Brazilian operation of EDP to collaborate on Urban Air Mobility (UAM). Both companies will cooperate on the research of operational models for charging infrastructure solutions needed for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft to begin operations.

Some of the subjects covered in the collaborative research will be the evolution of battery technology and charging systems, management of charging points, and payment systems. Together, the companies will evaluate the development of a viable UAM energy infrastructure following the analysis results.

“Innovation is part of the EDP pillars and is a topic that gets our constant attention. We believe that a low-carbon future necessarily involves developing electric mobility, be it by land or air. That's why we signed this memorandum with Eve to study possible ways of participating and contributing to this visionary future of eVTOLs. Our business is ideally suited for this UAM future with our energy solutions and charging Infrastructure,” highlights Andrea Salinas, director of innovation and ventures at EDP, Brazil.

Silk Way West Airlines launches new service from India

 Silk Way West Airlines launches new service from India

The Azerbaijan headquartered cargo airline Silk Way West Airlines, launches a new weekly Boeing-747F service from Mumbai, India to Baku, Azerbaijan.

The new direct scheduled route will operate every Thursday from Mumbai Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport to Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport.

This is the second route serving the Indian air cargo market launched by Silk Way West Airlines this year, following the weekly service connecting Baku with Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport upgraded in June by Boeing-747F flights with the capacity of 100 tons. 

With the opening of these new flights to India, the carrier will play an increasingly important role in the Asian continental freight network, constantly improving the quality of air cargo transportation services for both Indian and international partners.

We are pleased to have a new air bridge in India that will connect us with Mumbai. In cooperation with our Indian partners, Silk Way West Airlines is consistently widening its network in the region. The geographic reach of our regular flight network continues to expand, as these new scheduled routes open a new page in the history of bilateral partnership between Silk Way West Airlines and our Indian counterparts", said Wolfgang Meier, Silk Way West Airlines' chief executive officer and president.