Payload Asia | November-December 2024

WAREHOUSING AND MULTIMODAL TRANSPORTATION

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EDITORIAL/PUBLISHER

Keen Whye Lee Publisher publisher@harvest-info.com

Monina Eugenio Chief Editor editor-pla@harvest-info.com

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Dear Reader,

Welcome to this edition of Payload Asia! As the logistics and air cargo industry continues to adapt to a fast-evolving landscape, we are proud to bring insights that matter most to professionals navigating these changes.

This issue spotlights FedEx’s digital innovation with its new Import Tool. Positioned as a game-changer in the Asia-Pacific region, this tool simplifies import operations, providing transparency and efficiency for businesses. It’s an exciting example of how digital transformation is reshaping logistics processes and customer experiences

We also delve into Cathay Cargo’s specialised solutions and regional connectivity efforts, showcasing how they meet complex shipping needs through tailored protocols, digital tools like UltraTrack, and robust cold chain capabilities. This feature highlights their dedication to sustainable growth and innovation in air freight.

Another key story focuses on Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and their transformative impact on logistics processes. With their ability to optimise transportation operations and offer data-driven insights, TMS is becoming a must-have for businesses seeking agility and efficiency in an increasingly complex supply chain

We also bring you comprehensive coverage of two major industry events: the 68th AAPA Assembly of Presidents and the inaugural Super Terminal Expo. These gatherings provided crucial insights into aviation trends, sustainability initiatives, and the technologies driving airport transformation..

Warm regards,

Monina Eugenio

Chief Editor

IAG Cargo announces enhanced global services with new 2024-25 winter schedule

Emirates orders five additional 777 freighters, brings freighter fleet to 21 units by end 2026

Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo launch new strategic partnership

LATAM Cargo Group launches pioneering initiative in Chile with recycled plastic pallets

Qantas Freight boosts operations with ‘Santa’s Freight’ aircraft for Christmas cargo surge

Korean Air acquires 63.88% stake in Asiana Airlines

Etihad Cargo adds Paris to freighter network with weekly service

Challenge Group introduce an additional Boeing 747-400F Aircraft to its fleet

American Airlines Cargo enhances operations at London Heathrow

Envirotainer partners with Air France KLM Martinair Cargo to advance SAF

Changi Airport to invest S$3 billion over next six years to strengthen Singapore’s position as a global air hub

Glasgow Prestwick Airport and Chicago Rockford International Airport partner to develop air cargo traffic between Scotland and the US

Airport Authority Hong Kong acquires shares in Zuhai Airport

HKIA commissions Three-runway System

Brussels Airport welcomes over 1.7 million passengers and handles nearly 67,000 tonnes of freight in November

SATS and WFS unite with a new visual identity

dnata receives first Cargo iQ certified membership

Swissport acquires ViaEurope to expand its e-commerce service offering

Aviation secures ground handling license in Malaysia

Hong Kong-Miami pharma corridor validated through Pharma.Aero’s Corridor 3.0 project

Cathay Cargo Terminal takes lead in AI-powered safety enhancements

DB Schenker uses remote-controlled forklifts

Wingcopter, ITOCHU, and ANA test drone-based transport of research blood in Japan

GEODIS unveils its strategic plan to deliver ever more innovative, sustainable, and ethical logistics solutions

Gebrüder Weiss celebrates 25 Years in Japan

Scan Global Logistics hosts ‘Race to Zero Emission’ Forum in Asia

Fujitsu drives chemical industry logistics DX with participation in joint logistics demonstration 13

Menzies

Cathay Cargo

Air Arabia appoints Globe Air Cargo as its GSSA in Poland

Thai Airways appoints Globe Air Cargo India for Bangalore and Cochin operations

NAV AERO expands global cargo network with LOT Cargo partnership

Kuehne+Nagel introduces a server and data centre logistics solution for the cloud infrastructure sector

Locad raises $9m for smart digital logistics engine to expand globally

Swissport and Lufthansa win top prize at Cargo iQ Q-Rally

TIACA signs joint declarations to celebrate the birth of commercial aviation

appoints

Saudia Cargo Announces Eng. Loay Mashabi as New CEO

ECS Group announces Adrien Thominet’s appointment to TIACA Board of Directors

Kerry Logistics Network appoints Wong Siew Loong as Chief Commercial Officer for the group, Managing Director for Southeast Asia

Stefanie Pauly joins Jettainer as Chief Information and Technology Officer

IAG Cargo appoints Head of Digital Sales to enhance online offering for customers

Chapman Freeborn

Bernardo Nunes global Chief Operating Office

NEWS - CARRIERS

IAG Cargo announces enhanced global services with new 2024-25 winter schedule

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), announced its new 2024-25 winter schedule, which includes increased services to key destinations across the world.

The new schedule will see IAG Cargo deliver a 5% increase in weekly rotations to Africa and the Middle East, including the return of the London Heathrow (LHR) / Jeddah (JED) route operating six times a week. Key transatlantic routes will also see a boost in capacity, including an additional seven flights to Miami (MIA) from London Heathrow each week, representing a twofold increase, and a resumption of the same service from Dublin (DUB), which will run three times weekly.

Emirates orders five additional 777 freighters, brings freighter fleet to 21 units by end 2026

Emirates has placed a firm order for 5 more Boeing 777 freighters to be delivered from 2025/2026. Together with its previous orders, Emirates now has 14 Boeing 777Fs pending delivery from Boeing from now until end 2026.

In addition, Emirates has signed a multiyear lease extension with Dubai Aerospace

Enterprise for 4 Boeing 777Fs in its existing fleet. Based on these investments, by December 2026, Emirates SkyCargo expects to operate a fleet of 21 productionbuilt Boeing 777 freighters, significantly expanding its current fleet of 11 units.

Emirates also remains invested in converting 10 passenger Boeing 777-3000ERs into freighters for further capacity and fleet growth.

Even as it inducts new freighter aircraft into its operations, Emirates’ cargo division will continue to harness the airline’s all wide-body passenger fleet to facilitate the fast, reliable and efficient movement of goods worldwide, offering customers more

The additional capacity will benefit IAG Cargo’s global customer base until the end of March 2025, beginning at the end of October 2024.

Latin America will see three more weekly flights to Sao Paulo (GRU) from London Heathrow and an additional three services per week from Madrid (MAD). This extra capacity will be supplemented by six more services each week to Buenos Aires (EZE) from Madrid and Barcelona (BCN), as well as four more weekly rotations from the Spanish capital to Santo Domingo (SDQ).

flexibility with a fleet mix comprised of 777s, 777-Fs, 747Fs, A350s, and A380s.

The Dubai government’s plans to expand Al Maktoum International airport (DWC) is set to create the world’s largest hub in terms of capacity. DWC will ultimately be able to process 12 million tonnes of cargo annually, supporting the growth of the nearby Logistics District which is planned as an international base for global cargo and shipping companies, and part of Dubai’s masterplan to become the pre-eminent multi-modal cargo hub for air, sea and land connections.

As part of its vision for the next era of its growth, Emirates plans to make a decision by the end of this calendar year on its future freighter fleet for 2028/29 and beyond, with the Boeing 777-8F and Airbus A350-1000F as contenders.

Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo launch new strategic partnership

Qatar Airways Cargo announced the launch of a new strategic partnership with MASkargo, the cargo airline and subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group.

This partnership, inaugurated by Qatar Airways Cargo’s Chief Officer Cargo, Mr Mark Drusch, and MASkargo’s Chief Executive, Mr Mark Jason Thomas, marks a significant milestone in enhancing global cargo connectivity and operational efficiency.

The collaboration, which officially began on 1 October 2024, has already seen the successful movement of approximately 2,400 tonnes of cargo, including over 600 tonnes of perishables and 130 tonnes of pharmaceuticals.

Qatar Airways Cargo Boeing 777 flights fly from Doha to Kuala Lumpur twice a week, increasing weekly cargo capacity by over 200 tonnes. The strategic partnership will further solidify connectivity and efficiency to Sydney and Melbourne with MASkargo Airbus A330 freighters carrying more than 75 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity to these cities, with a swift connection time of just 8 hours in Kuala Lumpur. The strategic hubs at Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) will play a pivotal role, providing seamless connections and state-of-the-art handling facilities.

The agreement benefits both parties, allowing MASkargo to access key points in Europe, GCC, Levant and Africa, while Qatar Airways Cargo gains increased capacity access to Australia, New Zealand, South East Asia and North East Asia. It also supports the local market in Kuala Lumpur by enabling the export of products to more global markets.

In July 2024, Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deliver an enhanced product offering to cargo customers and achieve operational synergies. This strategic joint cargo business agreement allows both airlines to leverage each other’s network strengths and fleet capacity, significantly increasing cargo offerings.

LATAM Cargo Group launches pioneering initiative in Chile with recycled plastic pallets

More resistant, durable, and with a lower environmental impact, these new recycled plastic pallets will largely replace the current wooden and conventional plastic pallets used in LATAM Cargo Group’s operations in Chile. This pioneering initiative is part of the LATAM group’s commitment to achieving its goal of zero waste to landfill by 2027.

Currently, plastic or wooden pallets are used to transport bulk cargo from the warehouse to the aircraft. In the case of domestic cargo operations in Chile, these were replaced by high-density recycled plastic pallets that have a lifespan of approximately a decade, significantly longer than a conventional pallet.

Benefits of recycled plastic pallets

These pallets, manufactured by REHRIG PACIFIC COMPANY, are made with HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene), in a percentage of recycled material and another virgin – they are 50% made from recycled boxes and the other 50% is conventional plastic. This alternative not only improves the resistance of the pallets but the distinctive red colour they use due to the origin of the material facilitates their

identification, being the only operator in Chile that uses this color, thus optimising their return.

Compared to traditional pallets, they are lighter, more resistant and do not require constant maintenance, as well as being more hygienic, as they do not accumulate fungi or bacteria. Their nonslip structure also minimizes the risk of cargo displacement, even in extreme

temperatures, withstanding from -20°C to 60°C without losing their properties. Given their operational advantages and their contribution to the circular economy, the group plans to expand this initiative to cities where it currently has cargo operations nationwide. Additionally, it will evaluate the implementation of the use of these recycled plastic pallets in other cargo operations in South America (Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and Brazil).

Qantas Freight boosts operations with ‘Santa’s Freight’ aircraft for Christmas cargo surge

As Australians make their Christmas shopping lists – and check them twice – Qantas Freight is unveiling a specially decorated ‘Santa’s Freight’ aircraft as it prepares to deliver more than 50,000 tonnes of international and domestic freight for the busy festive season.

This year Qantas Freight volumes for the Christmas period are expected to be up five per cent compared to last year as online shopping continues to boom.

Qantas Freight will boost its operation to get gifts under trees and ingredients on tables in time for Christmas. The freighter fleet will fly around 550 additional hours across the domestic network in November and December, equivalent to 23 days of 24-hour flying.

Additional days of operation across the fleet will add 3,000 tonnes of domestic capacity, the equivalent of flying 12,000 fully-grown reindeer to cities and regional ports around Australia.

To celebrate the festive season, one of the six Qantas Freight A321 freighters has been gift-wrapped in a new ‘Santa’s Freight’ livery. The merry livery celebrates the season and heralds the tonnes of packages, mail and popular Australian food such as seafood, seasonal produce and even Christmas puddings carried on Qantas Freight during the Christmas peak.

Igor Kwiatkowski, Executive Manager, Qantas Freight said the lead-up to Christmas is one of the busiest and most critical times for the airline’s freight operations.

Qantas Freight carries cargo around the world with five international freighters and in passenger aircraft belly space across the Qantas and Jetstar networks. Qantas Freight also operates 20 domestic freighters, including a core fleet of 12 dedicated freighters for major partner Australia Post, increasing to 16 during this Christmas period.

The domestic freighter fleet alone is

expected to chart more than 11 million kilometres this year, the equivalent of about 745 trips from Hobart to the North Pole.

On the busiest days leading up to Christmas, across the global network, Qantas Freight will carry around 1M kilograms of cargo per day, which is around 70 per cent more than its usual daily uplift.

Korean Air acquires 63.88% stake in Asiana Airlines

Korean Air has completed its acquisition of Asiana Airlines, four years after announcing its decision on November 16, 2020.

On December 12, Korean Air acquired 131,578,947 newly issued shares of Asiana Airlines, representing a 63.88% ownership stake and making Asiana Airlines a subsidiary of Korean Air.

The completion follows Korean Air’s payment of KRW 800 billion to Asiana Airlines on December 11, concluding the share purchase transaction. This brings

the total investment through the thirdparty allotment capital increase to KRW 1.5 trillion, including the previously paid deposit of KRW 300 billion and interim payment of KRW 400 billion.

Asiana Airlines will hold an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders on January 16 to appoint new board directors nominated by Korean Air.

Korean Air plans to complete the integration with Asiana Airlines within two years. The integration strategy includes

network optimisation through diversified flight schedules on overlapping routes, service expansion to new destinations and enhanced safety investments. The merger aims to strengthen national aviation industry competitiveness, enhance Incheon Airport’s hub capabilities and expand global network reach.

The integration will proceed without workforce restructuring. The combined organisation projects natural staff growth through business expansion, with employees in overlapping functions being reassigned within the organisation.

The integrated frequent flyer program framework will be submitted to the Korea Fair Trade Commission by June 2025. Program details will be communicated to customers following regulatory review.

The acquisition represents a strategic milestone for Korea’s aviation industry. Korean Air will proceed to implement measures to strengthen the country’s aviation capabilities and enhance its competitive position in the global market.

Etihad Cargo adds Paris to freighter network with weekly service

Etihad Cargo is expanding its freighter network with the addition of Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) as its latest destination. The service, which launches on 7 January 2025, will operate one weekly flight, offering more than an additional 100 tonnes of cargo capacity to the market. Paris will become the 12th destination in Etihad Cargo’s freighter network and demonstrates the carrier’s continued commitment to providing greater global connectivity and meeting the diverse needs of its customers.

Operating via Abu Dhabi, the new freighter service will provide seamless main deck capacity connections to Ezhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, Hanoi and Zhengzhou. The service will also integrate with an extensive road feeder trucking network within China, enabling broader market access. Additionally, customers will benefit from same-day connectivity across Etihad Cargo’s widebody and narrowbody network, ensuring swift and reliable delivery for timesensitive shipments.

The new Paris freighter route will support Etihad Cargo’s specialised products, meeting growing demand across multiple industries. It will provide more capacity for general cargo to destinations like Riyadh, Jakarta, and Manila, secure transport for pharmaceuticals under PharmaLife to Mumbai, Jakarta, Seoul and Sydney, and improve access for perishables through FreshForward to Kuala Lumpur, Dubai and Sharjah. The route will also facilitate efficient solutions for live animal shipments with LiveAnimals and SkyStables, automotive shipments with FlightValet and cultural cargo with FlyCulture, offering reliable and flexible services tailored to diverse customer needs.

The launch of a freighter service between Paris and Abu Dhabi demonstrates Etihad Cargo’s commitment to providing reliable, customer-focused solutions. By expanding its freighter network and optimising belly capacity on its passenger network, Etihad Cargo ensures businesses have access to efficient, seamless connections to key global markets, helping them confidently achieve their goals.

Challenge Group introduce an additional Boeing 747-400F Aircraft to its fleet

Challenge Group unveiled its newest fleet addition—a Boeing 747-400 production freighter registered under its Belgian AOC—marking a bold milestone in its fleet expansion strategy and global mission to enhance cargo capabilities. With this acquisition, Challenge Group’s fleet now consists of 10 state-of-the-art aircraft, including six Boeing 747-400F and four Boeing 767-300F freighters, trebling its fleet in less than 3 years. This expansion positions the company to meet increasing customer demand with greater efficiency and flexibility.

The new aircraft will significantly enhance Challenge Group’s capacity and frequency, addressing rising demand for

perishable transportation out of Africa, e-commerce shipments from China, and transatlantic trade. Predominantly serving the e-commerce sector from China, the Boeing 747-400F will also support diverse industries and verticals with its versatile cargo capabilities.

This expansion aligns with Challenge Group’s long-term strategy to grow its fleet and increase its market reach. By incorporating advanced freighters like the Boeing 747-400 production freighter, the company is wellpositioned to deploy additional capacity as needed and strengthen its global network.

Challenge Group’s latest addition underscores its continued leadership in the airfreight and logistics sector, delivering

tailored end-to-end logistics solutions and enabling global trade for diverse industries and verticals. The company remains dedicated to scaling its operations while maintaining the highest standards of reliability and efficiency.

American Airlines Cargo enhances operations at London Heathrow

American Airlines Cargo announces a largescale enhancement in its facility and digital capabilities at London Heathrow Airport (LHR), its largest operation in Europe.

The carrier has made an extensive facility expansion at LHR by moving to a new location. The move, adjacent to its two former buildings, combines the carrier’s operations into one larger footprint for both imports and exports. The new facility provides more space and enables greater flexibility for the carrier and its cargo handler, Worldwide Flight Services (WFS).

The new building offers a total of 120,000 square feet, a 15,000 square foot increase compared to the original combined facilities

and nearly doubles the capacity for storage of PMC pallets. Landside and airside doors, X-Ray machines and build stations also all increase at the new building – all of which enable faster acceptance and delivery as well as build-up and break-down efforts.

In addition to the facility move, American has also updated how it transmits operational updates digitally with WFS. The combined effort enables a new digital connection between the WFS system, CargoSpot, and American’s iCargo platform.

American currently operates 20 widebody flights a day out of LHR to key hubs in the U.S., with as many as 26 per day during the summer peak season.

Envirotainer partners with Air France KLM Martinair Cargo to advance SAF

Envirotainer, the specialist in temperaturesensitive pharmaceutical shipments, has partnered with Air France KLM Martinair Cargo (AFKLMP) to support the development and adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

SAF, a cleaner alternative to traditional jet fuel, plays a crucial role in minimising the carbon footprint of air transport. By investing in SAF through AFKLMP Cargo’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Programme, Envirotainer aims to help pharmaceutical companies meet their sustainability goals while maintaining the integrity of temperature-sensitive shipments.

The program aims to spur the development of advanced SAF and reduce aviation’s carbon footprint. SAF is produced from renewable feedstocks, such as waste oils and residues, and can reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85% compared to conventional jet fuel.

Envirotainer’s efforts in sustainability extend beyond this partnership. The company’s science-based targets are designed to guide its efforts in reducing emissions across its value chain. Collaborative initiatives like this SAF agreement demonstrate the essential role partnerships play in achieving longterm environmental goals.

This partnership builds on Envirotainer’s previous achievements, such as adopting 95% renewable electricity across its operations and maintaining industryleading standards for cold chain logistics.

NEWS - AIRPORTS

Changi Airport to invest S$3 billion over next six years to strengthen Singapore’s position as a global air hub

Changi Airport Group (CAG) has announced a S$3 billion investment plan over the next six years to upgrade and expand services at Terminals 1 to 4. These improvements will focus on baggage handling, checkin processes, immigration, and Skytrain connections, as well as replacing outdated systems to enhance the overall passenger and airline experience. This initiative aims to maintain Changi Airport’s competitiveness and address the growing demand for air

travel ahead of the anticipated opening of Terminal 5 in the mid-2030s.

As part of this development, airport charges will rise gradually between 2025 and 2030, helping to cover the investments and higher operational costs, such as manpower. Airlines will receive a 50% rebate on increases in landing, parking, and aerobridge charges for the first six months to ease the transition. The rise in passenger fees is expected to be minimal, roughly 1% or less for an economy-class ticket.

CAG’s S$3 billion investment will include significant upgrades like the rejuvenation of the Skytrain subsystems, improvements to Terminal 3’s baggage handling system, and the construction of a new baggage

conveyance system linking Terminals 1 to 3. These changes are designed to improve operational efficiency and passenger flow. Additionally, Terminal 4 will see an expansion of its check-in capacity, while Terminal 1’s arrival immigration halls will undergo a major upgrade to alleviate bottlenecks during peak periods.

Other planned upgrades include reinforcing airside infrastructure to accommodate newer, heavier aircraft like the Boeing B779 and the construction of more aircraft parking stands to meet rising demand. With these initiatives, Changi Airport is set to strengthen its position as a leading air hub in the Asia-Pacific region, enhancing its ability to cater to growing passenger numbers and ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Glasgow Prestwick Airport and Chicago Rockford International Airport partner to develop air cargo traffic between Scotland and the US

Glasgow Prestwick Airport (PIK) and Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) have signed a joint development agreement to promote cargo flights between the two locations.

The partnership aims to strengthen the air cargo trade lane connecting PIK and RFD, and to facilitate the sharing of information between the airports, bolstering the air cargo pull factors to each.

Both PIK and RFD run full-service operations 24/7, with no curfews and no night flying or handling restrictions, allowing for continuous cargo operations at either end.

Several high-value aerospace manufacturers operate within the catchment areas of both

PIK and RFD.

E-commerce is another major focus of this partnership; this announcement follows PIK’s appointment as Royal Mail Group’s international e-commerce gateway to the UK, and capitalises on RFD’s position as an established U.S. e-commerce hub.

The development agreement was announced at The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA)’s Air Cargo Forum event in Miami from 11-14th November 2024.

Airport Authority Hong Kong acquires shares in Zuhai Airport

Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) signed an agreement with Zhuhai Transportation Holding Group in Zhuhai on acquisition of shares in Zhuhai Airport.

Under the Agreement of Shares Acquisition, AAHK will invest around CNY4.3 billion to acquire 35% of Zhuhai Airport’s shares, with a view to promoting further cooperation between Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) and Zhuhai Airport, as well as the development of a world-class airport cluster in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and the region’s aviation industry.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong-Zhuhai Airport Management Company Limited, a subsidiary of AAHK, will extend its management rights for the operation and management of Zhuhai Airport to 2046.

Since 2006, AAHK has been collaborating with the Zhuhai Municipal Government to manage Zhuhai Airport and enhance the airport’s operation efficiency, service quality, and management standards. Zhuhai Airport’s passengers and cargo volumes have continued to grow. In 2023, Zhuhai Airport handled over 11 million passengers, ranking 35th among airports in the Mainland and third in Guangdong, only behind Guangzhou Baiyun Airport and Shenzhen Bao’an Airport.

Under Zhuhai Airport’s expansion plan, Zhuhai Airport will be able to handle over 27 million passengers annually upon the opening of its new Terminal 2, targeted for 2025.

HKIA has also collaborated with Zhuhai Airport on various projects, including the “Fly-Via-Zhuhai-HK” service, which was officially launched in December 2023. It provides passengers with seamless “airto-bridge-to-air” transfer between HKIA and Zhuhai Airport. Passengers from other Mainland cities can fly to Zhuhai Airport and then take a transfer coach via the HZMB directly to the SkyPier Terminal inside HKIA’s restricted area, from which they will proceed to the boarding gates for transfer to destinations worldwide. This service also allows passengers from the western part of the GBA to travel to HKIA’s restricted area via the HZMB, enhancing its connectivity with the GBA.

Additionally, AAHK and Zhuhai Airport will develop a high-end aviation industrial park, to boost the development of the aviation industry in the GBA and enhance the region’s competitiveness.

NEWS - AIRPORTS

HKIA commissions Three-runway System

The Three-runway System (3RS) at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) was commissioned on 28 November 2024, marking a new milestone in Hong Kong’s aviation development.

All three runways have started operating simultaneously, providing the expanded capacity for HKIA to strengthen Hong Kong’s position as a major international aviation hub further. HKIA’s target is to serve 120 million passengers and handle 10 million tonnes of cargo annually in about 10 years from now.

The commissioning ceremony, held at HKIA, was officiated by John KC Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR); Zheng Yanxiong, Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR; Xu Chengguang, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Transport, the People’s Republic of China (PRC); Liang Nan, Deputy Administrator of Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC); Zou Jinsong, Director of Bureau III of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council; Fang Jianming,

Deputy Commissioner of the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of PRC in the HKSAR; and Fred Lam, Chairman of Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK).

Construction works of 3RS started in August 2016. The new North Runway was officially commissioned in November 2022. Since then, HKIA has continued to operate with two runways, with the Centre Runway temporarily closed for reconfiguration. The reconfiguration works include re-

Brussels Airport welcomes

levelling the runway pavement to tie in with connecting taxiways, constructing new runway entry and exit taxiways, building new wrap-around taxiways at both ends of the runway, and more. With the completion of the reconfiguration works, the flight check and aircraft crash and rescue exercise were completed on the Centre Runway in September and October respectively. After all three runways start operating simultaneously, the number of aircraft take-offs and landings at HKIA will gradually increase to tie in with air traffic demand.

over 1.7 million passengers and handles nearly 67,000 tonnes of freight in November

Brussels Airport recorded more than 1.7 million passengers in November, a 9% rise compared to the same period in 2023. The start of the month saw elevated passenger numbers due to the end of the autumn holidays. The total amount of cargo carried grew by 18%, amounting to 67,320 tonnes.

Passenger numbers: up +9% compared to November 2023

In November 2024, Brussels Airport welcomed 1,756,834 passengers, a 9% increase compared to November 2023. With the end of the autumn holidays at the beginning of the month, arriving travellers outnumbered those departing. The share of departing transfer travellers was 15%.

The 10 most visited countries in November were, respectively, Spain, Germany, Italy, Morocco, Turkey, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, France, the United States and Portugal.

Air freight volumes: +17% compared to November 2023

Total cargo volumes through Brussels Airport rose by 18% in November compared

to November 2023 to reach 67,320 tonnes. Air cargo volumes also saw a 17% increase, reaching a total of 55,826 tonnes.

There was a 6% decline in the full-freight segment. Belly cargo increased by 30%, partly due to the increase in passenger flights. Integrator services increased by 33% compared to November 2023, while trucked volumes are up by 20%.

The primary import regions are Asia, Africa and North America. Asia remains the leading export region, followed by North America and Africa.

Flight movements: up +5% compared to November 2023

There were 15,541 aircraft movements in November, up 5% compared to the same month in 2023. The number of passenger flights saw a 5% increase. The number of cargo flights increased by 12% compared to the same period in 2023.

On average, there were 140 passengers per flight, five more than in November 2023. This number remains high thanks to the use of larger aircraft and improved load factors.

NEWS - GROUND HANDLING

SATS and WFS unite with a new visual identity

SATS Ltd (SATS) and its wholly-owned subsidiary Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), known collectively as the SATS Group, launched a new unified global visual identity to reflect their integration and vision to become the world’s leading aviation solutions provider.

The brand refresh comes 18-months after SATS completed the acquisition of WFS. Aligning the two identities celebrates the coming together of SATS and WFS, whilst embracing their strong heritage. This includes retaining the WFS brand name in the Americas and EMEAA in acknowledgement of its long track record of operational excellence and strong customer relationships.

The new visual identity features a double loop and a ‘to the power of’ mathematical symbol to signify the coming together of SATS and WFS to power a world of trade, travel and taste via the Group’s connected global network of aviation gateway services, air cargo handling, and food solutions.

The new visual will be rolled out in phases over the next three years. It will eventually appear on SATS’ and WFS’ uniforms, airport vehicles, and infrastructure such as warehouses and central kitchens. The phased deployment reflects a pragmatic approach to introducing the new logo across SATS’ group global network, which comprises over 215 stations in 27 countries.

dnata receives first Cargo iQ certified membership

dnata has received its first Cargo iQ certification as the Dubai-based ground handling specialist commits to continuous reporting and high-quality handling across its network.

dnata integrated the Cargo iQ principles into its existing Quality Management framework, with the aim of reporting three-quarters of shipments globally.

Swissport acquires ViaEurope to expand its e-commerce service offering

Swissport International AG has signed an agreement to acquire ViaEurope, an innovative logistics services provider, specialising in end-to-end cross-border e-commerce solutions. The combination of ViaEurope with Swissport creates a single point of contact for shippers, cargo airlines and freight forwarders while providing a comprehensive service offering across each step of the product journey from aircraft handling, warehousing, customs clearance, tracking and preparation for delivery. This will allow Swissport to offer an expanded suite of services to its customers.

“ViaEurope has an industry-leading offering that provides global e-commerce players improved lead times and visibility.

dnata’s digitalisation initiative, One Cargo, has enabled ground handling data to be collected from all global stations within one system. Dubai, London, Amsterdam, and Singapore are the key stations that are already collecting data to feed into the quality monitoring framework.

dnata global has been a member of Cargo iQ since 2020, its cargo ground handling serves 159 airlines and carries 2.9 million tonnes of air cargo annually.

Cargo iQ’s membership works to improve air cargo quality by using data and engagement to work with all stakeholders and continually improve quality from the beginning to the end of the air cargo transportation process.

ViaEurope’s focus on efficiency and operational excellence aligns perfectly with Swissport’s ambition and DNA. It also provides us with a leading solution in the rapidly growing e-commerce logistics space,” says Warwick Brady, President & CEO of Swissport International. “We are looking forward to welcome the ViaEurope leadership and people as new colleagues”.

ViaEurope offers its services at five major airports in Europe: Amsterdam, Brussels, Budapest, Frankfurt, and Liège.

According to industry analysts, the volume of cross-border e-commerce goods is expected to increase by more than 50% by 2027. The innovative e-commerce capabilities ViaEurope brings will allow Swissport to better serve its customers as the leading airport service provider globally.

This transaction is subject to regulatory approvals.

Menzies Aviation secures ground handling license in Malaysia

Menzies Aviation has secured a new ground handling license to deliver passenger, ramp and cargo services at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), the main international airport serving Kuala Lumpur, the capital of Malaysia.

Menzies Aviation Malaysia – a joint venture (JV) with Malaysian supply chain management company, MMAG Holdings – will begin delivering ground handling services at the airport from January under the 12-month license.

Private aviation company MJets will be Menzies Aviation’s first customer at the

airport, with services set to begin in January 2025, serving more than 30 flights per week.

Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), operated by Malaysia Airports (MAHB) is the largest and busiest airport in Malaysia and is recognised as a “mega hub.” In 2023, it managed 47.2 million passengers, 980,040 tonnes of cargo and 819,026 aircraft movements, ranking as the 35th-busiest airport by total passenger traffic.

This marks the first time that Menzies Aviation has operated in Malaysia, representing a significant increase in the company’s footprint across Southeast Asia.

Hong Kong-Miami pharma corridor validated through Pharma.Aero’s Corridor 3.0 project

Pharma.Aero, in collaboration with Hong Kong International Airport, Miami International Airport and Cathay Cargo, announces the successful validation of the Hong Kong-Miami pharmaceutical air corridor. Building on the foundational work of Pharma.Aero’s Corridor 2.0 project, this Corridor 3.0 project is the latest initiative focused on ensuring secure, efficient, and high-quality airport-to-airport transportation for time- and temperaturesensitive pharmaceutical products.

Through the Corridor 3.0 project, Hong Kong and Miami airports, along with Cathay Cargo, have validated the end-toend transport process for live shipments, leveraging the Template Protocol provided as a result of the Corridor 2.0 project in 2021. The collaboration resulted in a white paper to share with the industry the methodology

and key findings of this latest initiative.

The validation demonstrates a 100% success rate, with zero temperature excursions, establishing the Miami-Hong Kong corridor as a reliable and quality-assured route for pharmaceutical shipments.

Pharma.Aero initiated the pharma corridor validation initiatives in 2019, to create a standardised protocol in order to ensure quality and consistency in temperaturecontrolled pharmaceutical logistics. The first successful airport-to-airport pharma corridor, established in 2020 between Brussels Airport and Hong Kong International Airport, validated a process for secure handling and visibility in the supply chain. Building on this, Pharma Corridor Project 2.0 was launched in 2021 to refine and expand the protocol

Cathay Cargo Terminal takes lead in AI-powered safety enhancements

Cathay Cargo Terminal has become the first air cargo terminal in Hong Kong to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) with its existing CCTV infrastructure to enhance safety and security monitoring across its terminal buildings.

Partnering with Intenseye, a leader in AI-powered workplace safety solutions, Cathay Cargo Terminal leverages advanced computer vision and AI algorithms to monitor safety and security hazards in realtime, mitigating potential incidents and improving safety at the workplace.

The technology uses the existing CCTV network to monitor for potential workplace

safety or security hazards such as safety equipment not being worn, vehicles or equipment moving too close to each other or to workers, individuals not following pedestrian walkways or work-at-height protocols and more. The system can also detect intrusions, amongst many other terminal-specific scenarios.

As well as optimising key modules of the Intenseye solution for a cargo terminal environment, Cathay Cargo Terminal and Intenseye have partnered to develop unique cargo terminal features, such as real-time alerts if shipments appear to be unattended at truck docks.

framework, testing a detailed Protocol Template on the Brussels–Miami route. This validated Protocol Template outlines critical requirements and performance indicators for end-to-end shipment monitoring, including a comprehensive operational roadmap with route descriptions, transport phases, stakeholder roles, and contingency planning. The template also includes annexes with route qualification guides, data logging procedures, and control point checklists, providing a robust toolset for Pharma.Aero members focused on maintaining high standards for time- and temperature-sensitive cargo.

The Intenseye solution is built on the principles of Ethical UI, with built-in privacy protections to concentrate on identifying potentially hazardous situations.

Cathay Cargo Terminal has also started installing AI on all X-ray machines at the terminal to augment its Enhanced Lithium Screening programme and plans to introduce AI into its Thermal Imaging programme in 2025.

DB Schenker uses remote-controlled forklifts

Forklifts are now operated remotely at DB Schenker’s Contract Logistics site in Kassel, Germany. The drivers control the vehicles from a distance. With a remote driving setup, drivers are connected to several different vehicles at different locations via the enabl platform.

Lucas Mömken, Vice President Global Engineering & Innovation in Contract Logistics, DB Schenker said, “The collaboration with enabl allows us to react flexibly to fluctuations in demand and automate our processes to increase productivity. We see this partnership as a

Wingcopter, ITOCHU, and ANA test drone-based transport of research blood in Japan

ITOCHU Corporation, Wingcopter’s partner in Japan, has tested the transport of research blood using Wingcopter’s delivery drone in a research project. Together with ANA Holdings and the local blood centre of the Japanese Red Cross, research blood was flown between the cities of Urasoe and Nago in Okinawa Prefecture.

The project aims to investigate the effectiveness and efficiency of drones in the delivery of blood products, with the longterm goal of relieving the burden on delivery

staff and being prepared for disasters, especially in regions where traditional forms of transport are inefficient. The prefecture of Okinawa, with its 48 inhabited islands, is a prime example of such a region. Supplying these islands using conventional delivery methods requires a lot of personnel and time. With drone deliveries, it will be possible to transport only the required amount at the exact moment it is needed. This enables a fast and efficient supply of blood products, even in emergencies and in response to natural disasters. Depending on weather conditions, the 53 km long test route between Urasoe and Nago was covered by the Wingcopter in as little as 32 minutes. A special transport container was used to keep the blood at a constant temperature of 2 to 6 degrees Celsius during the flight. In addition, experts have also investigated the possible effects of transport by drone on the quality of the blood supplied.

valuable addition to our CL digitalisation strategy, which will help us to secure our competitiveness in the long term.”

Remote-controlled driving has the potential to increase efficiency and eliminate staff shortages by separating the driver from the forklift. DB Schenker is continuing its collaboration with the German technology startup to increase the automation of its logistics processes. A Letter of Intent describing the long-term collaboration to scale enabl’s advanced remote control and automation technology for forklifts at several DB Schenker international locations was recently signed.

ITOCHU plans to integrate multiple simultaneously operating delivery drones into the conventional ground-based supply network in the future, thus helping to maintain a sustainable medical system, even in the event of labour shortages and emergencies in times of crisis. In addition, the company aims to introduce a commercial drone delivery service, in which the Wingcopter 198 will be used, among other things, to deliver high-priority medical and pharmaceutical products.

In March 2024, Wingcopter, with the support of ITOCHU, applied for type certification in Japan for the Wingcopter 198 and was the first foreign company to be accepted for the type certification process by the Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism. A successful completion of the process would allow commercial flights beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) and over inhabited areas.

GEODIS unveils its strategic plan to deliver ever more innovative, sustainable, and ethical logistics solutions

GEODIS announced its new strategic plan, Ambition 2027. This strategic plan, a continuation of the previous plan covering the period from 2018 to 2023, is intended to project the Group into the future while building on its achievements and continuing to focus on its purpose: “Serving people by delivering their goods all around the world with innovative, sustainable and ethical logistics.”

The logistics sector is experiencing significant changes, with increasing demand for adaptability and efficiency. To meet these challenges, GEODIS’s Ambition 2027 focuses on three key objectives: providing

tailored global logistics solutions, driving faster financial and operational growth, and prioritising social and environmental commitments as a core part of its strategy.

The plan is built around six key ambitions: maintaining business growth through diversified solutions, enhancing operational and economic performance, and improving service excellence with a high customer satisfaction score. GEODIS also aims to lead in digital innovation, investing 3.5% of its revenue in technologies, pursue external growth through acquisitions, and accelerate its sustainability efforts, including a tenfold increase in its electric vehicle fleet by 2030.

Gebrüder Weiss celebrates 25 Years in Japan

Gebrüder Weiss looks back on 25 years of air and sea freight transports in Japan. “The decision to gain a foothold in Japan has turned out to be the right strategy in the long term. Companies in the island nation manufacture their products for recipients all over the world. So, their goods are present in numerous supply chains within the Gebrüder Weiss network,” explains Michael Zankel, Regional Manager East Asia / Oceania at Gebrüder Weiss.

Owing to its strong industrial base, Japan had developed into one of the world’s most successful economies by the end

of the 1980s, and today ranks fourth in terms of GDP. “It therefore made sense to incorporate Japan and the Asian-Pacific region into the global network of Gebrüder Weiss to offer these companies solutions for their logistics requirements,” recalls Stefan Aebi, Country Manager Japan at Gebrüder Weiss. There are five major transshipment centres strategically located for sea freight transports with container ports in Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Kobe, and Osaka. The airports in Tokyo and Osaka offer connections to the air freight network.

In year 25 after entering the market,

Scan Global Logistics hosts ‘Race to Zero Emission’

Forum in Asia

Scan Global Logistics (SGL) recently hosted its Sustainability Forum 2024, titled “Race to Zero Emission,” marking its first edition in Asia. The event gathered over 100 industry leaders, government officials, and sustainability experts to discuss the theme “Driving Sustainable Solutions Together,” with a focus on collaborative approaches toward a carbon-neutral future.

The forum highlighted SGL’s commitment to decarbonising logistics and explored practical solutions for reducing carbon

emissions across the supply chain. Rickard Ingvarsson, SGL’s Regional CEO for Asia, emphasised the need for a concerted effort from various stakeholders, acknowledging the significant time and resources required for such a transformation. Ericsson’s ShengAnn Yu added that collective innovation and responsibility were key to achieving Net Zero across industries, while SGL’s Martin Andersen stressed the importance of turning sustainability strategies into actionable solutions.

Fujitsu drives chemical industry logistics DX with participation in joint logistics demonstration

Fujitsu announced that it participated as an observer in a joint logistics demonstration project conducted from September to December 2024 in the Kanto and Tokai regions in Japan. This project, aimed at realising a physical internet, was led by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism with the Chemicals Working Group(1) in the Physical Internet Realization Council.

Fujitsu contributed by providing a common data platform using its Fujitsu Unified Logistics offering. This facilitated the integration of various data related to logistics operations from participating companies in the Chemicals Working Group, including loading rates and CO2 emissions. Fujitsu Unified Logistics conforms to the Logistics Information Standards(3) of the “Cross-ministerial Strategic Innovation Promotion Program (SIP) Smart Logistics Service” project implemented by Japan’s Cabinet Office.

Realizing a physical internet requires

standardisation of logistics and business flow data within the supply chain. Fujitsu leveraged the hub functionality of its offering which collects, standardises, converts, and stores diverse logistics data formats to integrate logistics data from both shippers and logistics providers. Data formats, previously managed individually by each company, such as the number of data items and digits, were converted and standardised to conform to the Logistics Information Standards and stored in a logistics database. Furthermore, using the KPI evaluation and analysis functions of the platform, and with analysis from logistics experts, simulations were conducted to calculate the effectiveness of joint delivery. The results of the demonstration project are detailed in the Chemicals Working Group press release.

Overview of the initiatives

Fujitsu considers resolving logistics challenges a company-wide initiative contributing to its group materiality of promoting a supply chain. To address

Gebrüder Weiss offers its air and sea freight services at three locations in Japan’s major economic hubs: in the capital Tokyo, in Osaka and in Nagoya, a central hub of the automotive, aviation and textile industries. The Southeast and East Asian network is complemented by branches in South Korea, China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore.

The event also introduced the Race to Zero Challenge, an initiative aimed at accelerating the adoption of carbon reduction solutions. By participating, SGL’s customers are actively committing to reducing emissions and embracing sustainable practices, demonstrating a shared vision for a greener future.

logistics challenges in Japan, Fujitsu has played a leading role in the “Crossministerial Strategic Innovation Promotion Program (SIP) Smart Logistics Service,” demonstrating a history of consistent achievement from technology development to the construction of logistics and business flow data platforms and social implementation.

Furthermore, under its Fujitsu Uvance business model, which addresses societal challenges, Fujitsu is pursuing a Trusted Society initiative to protect people’s lives and create a prosperous and sustainable regional society while respecting the regional environment. By providing “Fujitsu Unified Logistics” to standardise logistics data, Fujitsu aims to achieve efficient operations, maximise transport capacity, and reduce CO2 emissions, thereby creating a resilient and sustainable logistics system.

FedEx increases frequency of international cargo flights connecting Qingdao to US

Federal Express Corporation (FedEx) has increased the frequency of its international cargo flight from Qingdao, China to the U.S. and opened a new international gateway facility in Qingdao. This expansion enhances

FedEx’s network in China, providing local businesses with more efficient, flexible, and intelligent logistics services, improving global trade opportunities.

The flight, which departs from Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport and makes a stop in Osaka before arriving in Memphis, has been upgraded from a weekly service to five flights per week. This increases transit speed, allowing select shipments to reach the U.S. with next-day delivery. FedEx has also integrated this flight with its ground network in Shandong to offer Same Day Service for customers in several cities, improving shipment flexibility.

The new Qingdao international gateway, FedEx’s fifth in China, spans 2,000 square meters and features an automated sorting system. This boosts sorting capacity and provides customers with faster, more efficient shipping and customs clearance services. Qingdao’s status as a major trade hub and growing cargo throughput further strengthens FedEx’s presence in the region.

In its 40th year of operations in China, FedEx continues to expand its infrastructure, leveraging digital technologies like AI and big data. The company now operates five gateways and over 300 flights weekly, reinforcing its commitment to improving network connectivity and supporting China’s global trade growth.

J&T Express exceeds 100M global parcels handled in a single day on Double 11, driven by strong growth across multiple regions

J&T Global Express Limited announced a new milestone in its growth trajectory, surpassing 100 million parcels handled worldwide in a single day during this year’s Double 11 shopping festival on November 12th.

Double 11 is a traditional peak season for China and Southeast Asia. From October 20th to November 12th, J&T Express saw significant growth in parcel volume in both markets. In China, the peak season during the same period saw an average daily parcel volume of nearly 66 million, a 25% year-over-year (“YoY”) increase, setting a new record. In Southeast Asia, the average daily parcel volume from November 1st to 11th exceeded 15 million, representing a robust 73% YoY growth.

In anticipation of the peak parcel volumes

during the multiple year-end shopping festivals, J&T Express implemented early preparations across various markets, increasing investment in infrastructure and human resources to ensure operational efficiency and service quality. In China, based on business forecasts and actual production needs, J&T upgraded and renovated 32 sorting centres nationwide, expanding operating areas and improving timeliness. Over 600 distribution hubs and outlets across the country also underwent upgrades, with over 400 sets of automated equipment deployed to enhance operational capacity and effectively manage the peak parcel volume.

J&T Express, capitalising on the growth of Southeast Asian markets and strong e-commerce partnerships, prepared for a surge

in parcel volume during Double 11. In Vietnam, the company deployed over 300 trucks and launched its largest sorting centre in North Vietnam, featuring intelligent technology and a 99.99% parcel handling accuracy rate.

In Thailand, J&T Express upgraded four sorting centres and five distribution hubs, adding over 13 automated systems and increasing processing capacity by 20-25%. The company also expanded sorting space by 19,000 square meters, added 900 vehicles, and hired 3,800 staff to support demand.

In Latin America, J&T Express is investing in infrastructure in Brazil and Mexico ahead of Black Friday, upgrading equipment to meet the growing parcel volume and ensure highquality service.

SingPost to divest Australia business at A$1.02bn in enterprise value

Singapore Post Limited announced that it has entered into a sale and purchase agreement with Pacific Equity Partners (“PEP”) for the sale of its Australia business, Freight Management Holdings Pty Ltd (“FMH”).

PEP shall acquire the Australia business at an enterprise value of A$1.02 billion (approximately S$897.6 million), which translates into A$775.9 million (approximately S$682.81 million) in cash and generates an expected gain on disposal of approximately S$312.1 million, subject to adjustments determined at the time of Completion and any other further adjustments.

SingPost intends to utilise some of the proceeds to repay borrowings, in particular, its Australian Dollar-denominated debt amounting to A$ 362.1 million (approximately S$320.8 million) – as of 30 September 2024 – undertaken for the financing of the acquisition of FMH. The total Australian Dollar-denominated debt of

the SingPost Group (including borrowings undertaken by FMH) amounted to A$614.8 million (approximately S$544.9 million) as of 30 September 2024.

The SingPost Board will consider in due course, the payment of a special dividend after taking into account, amongst other things, the repayment of the Australian Dollar-denominated borrowing and future funding needs of the SingPost Group. Further announcements on such a proposed special dividend will be made at an appropriate time.

In July 2023, the Board initiated a strategic review of the SingPost Group’s portfolio of businesses, with a view to enhancing shareholder returns and ensuring that SingPost is appropriately valued. In March 20242, the Board outlined its strategic intentions for the businesses and in line with this, initiated a strategic review specifically for the Australia business3 to formulate optionalities for the

In the course of the strategic review, SingPost received unsolicited interest in the acquisition of FMH, leading to an international competitive bid process conducted by BofA. After evaluating various options, including full and partial divestments, organic and inorganic growth strategies, the Board determined that a full divestment was the best option and a first step towards bringing forward and unlocking value for shareholders.

The proposed divestment is subject to regulatory approvals such as approvals from the Foreign Investment Review Board of Australia, and SingPost obtaining the requisite approval from shareholders in an extraordinary general meeting of SingPost to be convened.

Group. Merrill Lynch Markets Australia Pty Limited (“BofA”) was appointed as financial advisor to the Board.

ST Engineering secures exclusive contract with Akasa Air

ST Engineering announced that its Commercial Aerospace business has secured a 15-year exclusive maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) contract with Akasa Air, India’s fastest-growing airline, to provide MRO solutions for the LEAP-1B engines that power its Boeing 737 MAX fleet.

Under the agreement, ST Engineering will provide Akasa Air with the first Performance Restoration Shop Visit (PRSV) service for their LEAP-1B engines at its aerospace facility in Singapore. This partnership covers Akasa Air’s fleet of 25 Boeing 737 MAX and the 201 aircraft they will receive over the next eight years. Recently equipped with LEAP-1B engine test capability and ramping up its LEAP engine MRO capacity, ST Engineering will provide seamless MRO

services to support airlines like Akasa Air to drive long-term growth and operational efficiency.

Tay Eng Guan, SVP/Head, Engine Services at ST Engineering, said, “ST Engineering’s appointment as Akasa Air’s exclusive LEAP1B engine MRO solutions provider for the first PRSV service reflects strong confidence in our deep expertise and ability to be a trusted long-term partner. This milestone partnership also underlines our growing support for the LEAP-1B engines, and our commitment to help airlines focus on their operations and business growth while we maintain their engines.”

ST Engineering was the first independent MRO provider in Asia to join CFM International’s LEAP open MRO ecosystem under a CFM Branded Service Agreement in 2023. Its Commercial Aerospace business recently achieved testing capabilities for LEAP-1A and LEAP-1B engines at its Singapore facility and is currently expanding its capabilities to include LEAP PRSV.

HAECO and COMAC sign MOU to collaborate on MRO services

HAECO Group (HAECO) and Shanghai Aircraft Customer Service Co. Ltd. (SACSC), a subsidiary of Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China (COMAC), signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on airframe, engine and component services. This partnership aims to address the growing maintenance demands of COMAC platforms such as ARJ21 and C919.

passenger aircraft programs in China, is engaged in the research, manufacture and flight tests of civil aircraft and related products, as well as marketing, servicing, leasing and operations of civil aircraft.

HAECO currently offers comprehensive services for COMAC’s platforms, including base maintenance capabilities for the ARJ21 and C919. The company has committed to further develop capabilities for the CF34-10A engine and ARJ21 landing gear by 2025. In addition, HAECO has established expertise in the C919 evacuation slide through its components division. The MOU will enable the two parties to jointly deliver more comprehensive support towards COMAC’s domestic and international customers.

HAECO and COMAC are committed to delivering high-quality services that meet the needs of their airline customers, ultimately contributing to the growth and sustainability of the aviation industry. This partnership marks a significant step forward in enhancing aircraft maintenance capabilities in the region, ensuring that both organisations can effectively support the evolving landscape of the aviation industry.

GA Telesis signs contract with CommuteAir for Embraer landing gear repair and overhaul

Established in 1950, HAECO is a leading provider of comprehensive aircraft engineering services covering airframe, engine and component solutions. The group comprises 16 operating companies, employing around 15,000 staff in Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland, Europe, and the Americas. COMAC, as the aircraft manufacturer implementing large GA Telesis announced the signing of a contract with CommuteAir, a United Express carrier, for the repair and overhaul of Embraer landing gear systems. This multi-year agreement will cover CommuteAir’s fleet of Embraer 145 aircraft, ensuring ongoing, reliable support for landing gear maintenance and enhancing operational efficiency.

Under the terms of this partnership, GA Telesis’ MRO Services Group will provide industry-leading expertise in landing gear overhaul and repair, leveraging state-of-

the-art facilities and a highly skilled team to deliver quick turnaround times and top-quality service. As a trusted brand in aviation maintenance and aftermarket solutions, GA Telesis’ proven track record with high-quality MRO services will play a key role in maximising CommuteAir’s fleet readiness and minimising downtime. The agreement further solidifies GA Telesis’ position as a premier provider of MRO services for the Embraer fleet type, expanding its influence in the regional aviation market. GA Telesis has

the capability to perform maintenance on the entire suite of Embraer aircraft. By providing highly customised maintenance programs, GA Telesis continues to strengthen its relationships with regional airlines like CommuteAir, offering solutions that cater to their unique operational needs.

As a strategic partner, GA Telesis remains committed to supporting CommuteAir’s vision of safe, reliable, and efficient service across its route system. The partnership is set to commence immediately, with GA Telesis gearing up to provide seamless support that ensures CommuteAir’s Embraer fleet stays in optimal flying condition.

NEWS - FREIGHT FORWARDERS

Blockchain-powered digital book and claim solution Avelia expands to air freight sector

Avelia announced its expansion into the air freight sector with Avelia Air Freight Solutions. With proven success in business travel –delivering over 18 million gallons of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and abating more than 165,000 tonnes of CO2e, the equivalent of over 290,000 passengers flying from London to New York – Avelia’s blockchain-powered platform is now addressing a critical need in air freight. With freight forwarders and their shipping customers seeking to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, this secure solution enables the

sharing of SAF emission reduction benefits across the value chain, providing verified emissions reduction while supporting broader aviation decarbonisation.

Every year, 35% of the world’s trade by value is carried by air. Air freight produced an estimated 19% of all aviation emissions in 2018, and by 2023 air cargo flight volume increased by 25% compared to 2019. For freight forwarders and shippers, managing these emissions involves complex tracking, reporting and coordination challenges across global supply chains. To

address these challenges, Avelia now offers freight forwarders the ability to allocate the environmental attributes of SAF across the value chain to the shippers using their services. This allows both parties to use the attributes for their own emissions disclosure purposes and demonstrate progress towards their sustainability targets.

Thanks to its customisable platform, Avelia has been adapted to enable freight forwarders to offer SAF programmes to their customers or integrate easily with existing SAF programmes. The platform’s blockchain technology enables safe, transparent, and reliable tracking and allocation of SAF environmental attributes for both freight forwarders and shippers.

BlueBox Systems expands tracking platform with new functions

BlueBox Systems, one of the leading developers of intelligent freight tracking solutions, has further developed its BlueBoxCargo tracking platform. The new features include tracking CO2 emissions for sea freight, simplified shipment registration for smaller customers and extended analysis options that further optimise decision-making for customers. This includes, for example, a new routing function for air freight customers. The enhancements give customers access to even more precise and comprehensive data and make the platforms even easier and more flexible to use – even for smaller companies.

With the latest upgrades, BlueBox Systems’ customers can access detailed emission reports for sea freight on the BlueBoxCargo user interface (UI) and API. BlueBox Systems is working with a trusted partner who provides air cargo emissions data. The calculations include not only the main port-to-port route, but also the pre-carriage and on-carriage routes, as well as all stopovers, which are essential for a holistic view of emissions. The calculation also considers additional information, such as the type of vessel, which affects fuel efficiency. Customers receive emissions reports on a percontainer basis and can also get a complete overview on dashboards.

In addition, BlueBoxCargo customers can now use a new routing feature to evaluate alternative flight routes in terms of transit time and CO2 emissions. This allows customers to plan their shipments in advance and select the optimal route and airline based on various criteria such as flight route, total travel time or CO2 emissions. The routing feature helps carriers plan more efficiently and reduce their

carbon footprint.

BlueBoxCargo also offers advanced reporting and analytics capabilities that allow customers to customise their dashboards. Users can combine the metrics that matter to them – such as CO₂performance and on-time performance – into a single dashboard to gain deeper insight into their logistics operations. These self-service analytics provide a high degree of flexibility and help customers make data-driven decisions.

To make the platform more attractive to smaller and proof-of-concept customers, BlueBox Systems now enables manual registration of shipments and containers. In addition to the previous API integration and upload via file transfer, customers can now register individual shipments directly via an online form in the application and update them at any time. This low-threshold solution helps companies without extensive IT infrastructure to gain initial experience with the platform and ensures maximum flexibility and accessibility.

The WACO System launches innovative partnership with cargo.one to deliver digital collaboration to members worldwide

The WACO System (WACO), the independent global network of freight forwarders, and cargo. one, the leading digital air freight procurement platform, unveiled an industry-first initiative that sees WACO members upgraded to state-of-the-art digital infrastructure. WACO’s members can now digitalise vital procurement and sales processes including capacity discovery, quoting and booking, including member-to-member bookings.

WACO is the leading non-profit global network for independent freight management companies, connecting and nurturing its membership base to evolve and thrive. WACO works hard to develop frameworks and systems to support its forwarders in 118 countries to raise efficiency, resilience and competitive edge. In clear synergy with cargo. one’s industry mission, WACO is guiding its members to digitally connect and transact globally with each other and so realize valuable gains from digital freight.

Building upon the collaborative power of the WACO network, the cargo.one WACO Module enables members to book with one another, as well as book live air capacity rates. Users can discover and procure each others’ rates, including local charges and trucking, to create

door-to-door quotations effortlessly and in real-time using one centralised, user-friendly platform. WACO member forwarders are digitally connected with each other and can also opt to access non-member agents using cargo.one. An online shopfront for each member company enables the buying and selling of services digitally around the clock.

Built around forwarders’ existing workflows, the ability to discover, quote, and book rates in seconds with cargo.one saves forwarders thousands of emails and hundreds of team hours per month. With cargo.one, WACO members can be confident that they are quoting door-to-door with the most competitive market rates while fully aware of all available options within the WACO network.

Air Arabia appoints Globe Air Cargo as its GSSA in Poland

Globe Air Cargo, a subsidiary of ECS Group, has been appointed as the GSSA for Air Arabia in Poland. This partnership marks an important step in strengthening Air Arabia’s cargo operations in the region. The contract is effective from October 15, 2024, for a duration of three years from the date of signing.

As part of this agreement, Globe Air Cargo Poland represents Air Arabia, initially operating four flights per week to Krakow, to be adjusted to five flights per week during the winter schedule. Starting in December, Air Arabia will expand its services to Warsaw with five rotations. The aircraft utilised for these operations will include the A320 and A321 series, providing a weekly cargo

capacity that is well-suited for a range of commodities.

The main commodities transported include general cargo and passive temperature-sensitive shipments such as

pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and foodstuffs.

This appointment is set to create significant opportunities for both ECS Group and Air Arabia, enhancing their presence in the growing Polish logistics market.

Thai Airways appoints Globe Air Cargo India for Bangalore and Cochin operations

ECS Group’s subsidiary, Globe Air Cargo India, has been appointed as the GSSA for Thai Airways in Bangalore and Cochin. This partnership, effective since September 1, 2024, aims to strengthen Thai Airways’ operational capacity and connectivity in India, facilitating access to key markets in the Far East, Europe, and Australia.

Under the new contract, Globe Air Cargo India oversees daily A350-900 flights from Bangalore, each providing a cargo capacity of 15 tons. Initially operating three weekly flights, Cochin has now expanded to daily operations, contributing an additional 2.5 tons per flight, approximately. This strategic move significantly bolsters Thai Airways’ cargo network within India, with Globe Air Cargo India now managing four of the airline’s eight major stations nationwide, and handling over 40% of its total exports from the country. The primary commodities

expected to benefit from this agreement include pharmaceuticals, perishables, garments, spices, and automotive parts, supported by improved logistics and streamlined connections.

This contract marks a significant milestone for ECS Group as Globe Air Cargo India assumes a pivotal role in supporting Thai Airways’ expansion and operational success in India’s dynamic cargo sector.

NAV AERO expands global cargo network with LOT Cargo partnership

NAV AERO Global Cargo GSSA Network announced its new partnership with LOT Cargo, a leading carrier known for its exceptional services and vast network. This collaboration highlights NAV AERO’s commitment to expanding its airline portfolio to deliver unparalleled benefits to its clients, including enhanced connectivity, customised logistics solutions, and expanded global reach.

LOT Polish Airlines, one of the oldest and most reputable airlines globally, has been a trusted name in cargo transport since 1929.

With regional offices in Kraków, Wrocław, Poznań, and international locations in New York, Chicago, and Beijing, LOT Cargo leverages its advanced fleet and extensive route network to connect Warsaw with key destinations across Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond.

In addition to air cargo services, LOT’s Road Feeder Service (RFS) ensures seamless domestic and international ground transportation for goods not suited for air shipment. LOT’s ISO 9001:2015 certification reflects its unwavering dedication to quality,

reinforcing its leadership in the Central and Eastern European cargo market.

This collaboration enables NAV AERO to offer its clients increased flight options, optimised scheduling, and tailored logistical solutions to meet diverse industry demands.

By joining forces with LOT Cargo, NAV AERO strengthens its global capabilities and regional presence, driving value and efficiency across its network.

Kuehne+Nagel introduces a server and data centre logistics solution for the cloud infrastructure sector

Drawing on its experience in delivering logistics solutions for server and data centre customers, Kuehne+Nagel announces the global launch of a specialised logistics solution for the growing cloud infrastructure industry. The strong growth of this sector has further accelerated with the expansion of artificial intelligence (AI). Gartner forecasts that spending on public cloud services will

grow by 20.4% in 2024 and by 22.1% in 2025 due to AI growth.

Yngve Ruud, Member of the Management Board of Kuehne+Nagel International AG, responsible for Air Logistics, said customers in the cloud infrastructure sector seek reliable, secure, and scalable solutions tailored to their industry needs. This dedicated offering reinforces Kuehne+Nagel’s commitment to supporting its global growth in a rapidly expanding market.

The comprehensive solution addresses the specific needs of an industry that demands reliability, predictability, security, and visibility throughout the entire supply chain. It offers access to Kuehne+Nagel’s extensive global air logistics network with continuous pickup and delivery services, including lastmile white glove road transport solutions.

A worldwide network of certified logistics experts is trained to deliver sensitive and oversized servers to data centres with consistent quality and security.

The solution offers real-time visibility of essential shipment information, enabling customers to make quick and informed decisions. Digital tools reduce risks and identify optimal shipping routes suited to operational needs. GPS capabilities track and monitor shipment movements in realtime, offering detailed data reports to verify the temperature, light exposure, and chain of custody at all touchpoints.

Kuehne+Nagel further offers a breadth of sustainable transport solutions to complement the service, which reduces shipment emissions and contributes to reaching environmental targets.

Locad raises $9m for smart digital logistics engine to expand globally

The round was co-led by Global Ventures and existing investor Reefknot Investments. Other participating investors include Sumitomo Equity Ventures and existing investors Antler Elevate; Febe Ventures; and JG Summit.

The new funding will accelerate Locad’s international expansion, starting with UAE and Saudi Arabia in Q4 2024 as part of its ‘Grow Global, Go Local’ strategy for brands; and will also be used to enhance Locad’s AI-driven smart logistics capabilities. Locad is on a mission to build the supply chain infrastructure of modern commerce connecting brands to consumers in growth

Wiremind Cargo and TAP Air Cargo connect Cargospot and SKYPALLET

TAP Air Cargo, which has been a SKYPALLET customer since October 2022, recently took a step forward in embedding SKYPALLET in its capacity optimisation process by implementing an API integration between SKYPALLET and CHAMP’s cargo management solution, Cargospot Airline. This enables TAP Air Cargo staff to automatically transfer the air waybill data for flights from Cargospot to SKYPALLET for shipment evaluation and flight planning. This helps TAP users to see an immediate optimisation of their flight plans, including co-loadability checks, segregation, T-ULD, and many more features. It also means Cargospot remains the source of truth for any later changes such as changes in bookings, which can be quickly reflected in SKYPALLET. By removing the need for manual input into

markets with a global cloud supply chain asa-service.

Locad’s cloud supply chain enables smart digital logistics and open commerce for consumer brands through an integrated operating system and supply chain infrastructure as a service: Locad allows brands to connect all sales channels in e-commerce and retail to a single pool of inventory and a smart logistics network, managed through its Control Tower orchestration platform that provides realtime visibility, analytics, and ai enhanced workflow automation.

SKYPALLET, this integration will generate even more efficiencies for TAP Air Cargo in reducing the time taken to plan and release a flight from a typical 15-30 minutes without a tool like SKYPALLET, to a matter of seconds.

“Digitalisation brings significant process efficiencies as the ongoing success of our SKYPALLET product proves: a single solution that, on average, helps improve flight load factors by up to 5-10%,” says Nathanaël de Tarade, Chief Executive Officer of Wiremind Cargo. “The ability to integrate our solutions seamlessly into customers’ existing software is a product priority for us at Wiremind Cargo, to help unlock process efficiencies and maximise the useability of our solutions. We are particularly happy to launch this solution together with TAP Air Cargo, who has been a valued partner over the past year and a half, and CHAMP to demonstrate the potential of collaboration within our industry.”

Locad — the leading smart digital logistics engine empowering consumer brands with its Cloud Supply Chain-As-a-Service for global distribution — announces its $9 million Pre-Series B fundraise.

Wiremind Cargo and TAP Air Cargo have further advanced their partnership by integrating SKYPALLET with the airline’s Cargospot cargo management system from CHAMP.

Swissport and Lufthansa win top prize at Cargo iQ Q-Rally

Swissport and Lufthansa teamed up for the Cargo iQ Q-rally and won the event with their Implementation of Freight into warehouse (FIW) at all Swissport and Lufthansa stations.

The goal was to level up the accuracy of Service Level Agreement (SLA) measurements, between the aircraft and drop off and the Warehouse processes.

Swissport’s Priscilla Marques, Manager Global Operations Cargo, applied continuous improvement throughout the whole project. Swissport initially began the implementation of FIW by manually logging the movements of shipments. They then analysed their findings, improved the system requirements, measured again, and went back to fix the remaining discoveries.

At the Q-rally the team presented and shared their learnings. They presented different business scenarios through socalled Ramp delivery profiles and observed higher workflow efficiency through their system upgrade, which also led to greater accountability from all parties.

Jussi Lemola, Vice-President Global Operations, shared that a station-by-station approach is required to do this right and that the newly implemented milestone helps detect bottlenecks.

Swissport used preexisting resources to implement FIW and provide input to the Cargo iQ Membership to further develop the initiative.

Cargo iQ’s Q-rally is a bi-annual event that brings together various Cargo iQ stakeholders to present projects that focus on continuously improving the air cargo industry.

TIACA signs joint declarations to celebrate the birth of commercial aviation

The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) announced it has signed two joint declarations submitted to ICAO (International Civil Organization) to celebrate the birth of commercial aviation 80 years ago.

Two joint declarations have been signed by numerous aviation organisations as well as associations. The declarations sent to ICAO by the Air Transport Action Group (ATAG) and the International Aviation Foundation (IAF) celebrate the strength of the Chicago Convention signed 80 years ago and underlines the industry’s continued commitment toward ensuring international aviation continues to work towards safe, secure and sustainable growth.

Steven Polmans, Chair, TIACA said, “The air cargo industry has been allowed to grow and thrive over the last 80 years under the guidance issued by ICAO with the signing of the Chicago Convention. We celebrate the foresight, wisdom and strength that the guidelines have given to the industry and look forward to another 80 years of sustainable and economic growth within our industry.”

Glyn Hughes, Director General, TIACA added, “We all have something to celebrate as our industry has developed and flourished since the birth of commercial aviation. As we continue to work toward TIACA’s vision for “a safe, profitable and united air cargo industry that embraces modern technologies and practices to sustainably and fairly serves trade and social development worldwide”,

we are thrilled to continue our support of ICAO and their role within our industry.”

“Commercial aviation collectively generates $4.1 trillion in global economic activity and supports 86.5 million jobs worldwide. Transporting 5 billion passenger journeys, and 33% of global trade by value amounting to over USD 8 trillion, across 67,300 routes connecting 4,072 airports on a fleet of 29,000 aircraft.

As we face the challenges of the future, from achieving net zero emissions to ensuring equitable access to air transport, the aviation sector stands united in its commitment to innovation and collaboration, working hand-in-hand with ICAO to set the course for the next 80 years.”

Chapman Freeborn appoints Bernardo Nunes global Chief Operating Office

Bernardo Nunes has been appointed Chief Operating Officer at Chapman Freeborn.

Nunes returns to Chapman Freeborn after serving as Director of Transformation and Analytics in 2021 and 2022. He brings with him over 25 years of experience in the air cargo supply chain and finance industries.

“Bernardo will be managing daily operations across the Chapman Freeborn group to achieve strategic objectives and foster long-term sustainable growth,” said Eric Erbacher, Chief Executive Officer, of Chapman Freeborn.

Nunes will work across the Chapman Freeborn group, including Magma Aviation, Intradco Global, and the Arcus Air Group, to strengthen cultural, strategic, and operational leadership at all levels of the group.

This follows Chapman Freeborn’s recognition at the Payload Asia Awards last month where it was awarded Air Charter Broker of the Year for the second year in a row.

Saudia Cargo Announces Eng. Loay Mashabi as New CEO

Saudia Cargo, a leader in global air cargo transportation and a member of the biggest air cargo alliance, SkyTeam Cargo with its global reach, announced the appointment of Eng. Loay Mashabi as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, effective January 1, 2025.

Eng. Mashabi succeeds Teddy Zebitz as CEO, who has led Saudia Cargo to record success, driving innovation and solidifying its leading position, Zebitz will continue to serve as a member of the Board of Directors

Eng. Mashabi joined Saudia Cargo as a board member in August 2021 and then as a Managing Director in October 2023, bringing a wealth of experience in the transportation and logistics sector. Prior to joining Saudia Cargo, he served as Deputy Minister for Logistics

Services at the Ministry of Transportation and Logistics Services, and Deputy Governor for Planning and Development of the General Authority of Customs, He also served as CEO of the inception phase of a Al Soudah destination at Public Investment Fund (PIF)

Under his leadership, Saudia Cargo will focus on accelerating its growth, expanding its international network, and advancing Saudi Vision 2030’s logistics sector goals, enabling the Kingdom’s transformation by securing essential goods and providing customercentric solutions that help businesses thrive and industries grow.

Eng. Loay Mashabi holds an Executive MBA from London Business School and a BSc in Petroleum Engineering from King Fahd University.

ECS Group announces Adrien Thominet’s appointment to TIACA Board of Directors

ECS Group announced the appointment of Adrien Thominet, Executive Chairman of ECS Group, to the Board of Directors of The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA). Representing global GSAs, he brings decades of leadership and innovative contributions to the air cargo sector.

Thominet began his career with ECS Group in 1995 as Commercial Manager, later advancing to Chief Operating Officer in 2011 and ultimately Executive Chairman. Under his leadership, ECS Group has become the world’s largest GSSA, recognised for its commitment to operational excellence and forward-thinking strategies. His extensive experience and vision will be instrumental

as TIACA addresses the evolving needs of the air cargo industry.

Thominet succeeds Bertrand Schmoll, who served on the TIACA Board for five years and played a key role in guiding the association through its transformation. Schmoll’s significant contributions were recognised during TIACA’s annual Board dinner.

Through this appointment, ECS Group reaffirms its commitment to leadership and collaboration within the air cargo sector. Thominet’s role on the TIACA Board will help advance initiatives that drive innovation, sustainability, and efficiency across the supply chain.

Kerry Logistics Network appoints Wong Siew Loong as Chief Commercial Officer for the group, Managing Director

Kerry Logistics Network Limited announced the appointment of Wong Siew Loong as its Chief Commercial Officer for the Group and Managing Director for South East Asia. The appointment is a key step in accelerating KLN’s growth strategy and advancing its development plan across the globe.

With more than 25 years of experience in the global transportation and logistics sector, Siew Loong joins KLN from Kuehne+Nagel where he last served as President of the Asia Pacific region and brings extensive international experience and a proven track

for Southeast Asia

record. Based in Singapore, Siew Loong will lead KLN’s global commercial growth strategies and operational advancement efforts to unlock new opportunities and drive greater growth.

Wong Siew Loong commented on his new appointment, “I am excited to be joining KLN and bringing my commercial experience and insights to contribute value to its strategic development and long-term growth. I look forward to working collaboratively with the talented team across the network to drive success.”

Stefanie Pauly joins Jettainer as Chief Information and Technology Officer

Jettainer sets the course for a digital future and appoints Stefanie Pauly as Chief Information and Technology Officer. With this newly created position, Jettainer underlines its strategic focus on innovation, digitalisation and technology to continue offering its customers the best services and to further strengthen its role as a global market leader.

Stefanie Pauly, who has more than 10 years of experience in managing IT projects and process optimisation in the air cargo industry, will be responsible for Jettainer’s innovation strategy. In her new role, she will work with Jettainer’s IT team to develop and refine innovations to continuously optimise processes and improve service quality. A

particular focus will be on customer-centric software development.

Prior to joining Jettainer, Stefanie Pauly held various positions at Lufthansa Cargo, where she successfully managed digitalisation, process optimisation and innovation development projects over the past ten years. As Senior Manager Supply Chain Optimization and Strategy, she was in charge of the “Airmail IT” project and drove the digitalisation of the cargo airline’s global handling processes. As Senior IT Project Manager, she was also responsible for the implementation and rollout of new production planning software at the Frankfurt hub. Most recently, she was Head of Fulfillment Framework.

IAG Cargo appoints Head of Digital Sales to enhance online offering for customers

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), has announced the creation of a new role – Head of Digital Sales, to be filled by Daniel Rodriguez.

This new position underpins IAG Cargo’s mission to accelerate its online offering and better serve customers in the evolving logistics landscape.

Having held various roles within IAG Cargo since 2018, Daniel’s experience and knowledge of the market uniquely position him to drive the digital sales strategy forward.

Daniel, who took up his position as Head of Digital Sales on 2nd December 2024, said, “I am thrilled to take up this new role and look forward to driving digital innovation to not

only cater to the needs of our customers but also to deliver efficiencies throughout the process.

“Our goal is to fully leverage the tools available to us, ensuring that we futureproof the business by utilising digital means to optimise our offering to customers.”

“I am excited to continue working with the team to further strengthen our online offering and deliver an exceptional, efficient experience for all our customers.”

This milestone signals IAG Cargo’s continued commitment to innovation, positioning the company to meet evolving customer expectations and industry changes in the digital age.

FEATURE - CATHAY CARGO

Advancing specialised cargo solutions and regional connectivity with Cathay Cargo

The air cargo landscape demands constant evolution, and Cathay Cargo is leading this transformation with innovative solutions for complex shipping challenges. From orchestrating the delicate transport of pandas and racehorses to ensuring the precise delivery of vaccines and fresh seafood, the carrier has established itself as a specialist in high-value, sensitive cargo movements. Based in Hong Kong, Asia’s premier logistics hub, Cathay Cargo is leveraging digital innovation, enhanced regional connectivity, and sustainable practices to reshape the future of air freight operations.

Meeting complex shipping needs with specialised solutions

Cathay Cargo offers nine specialist solutions, each tailored with distinct procedures, safety protocols, and handling methods. “We have four CEIV IATA certifications around Cathay Fresh, pharmaceuticals, lithium batteries, and live animals,” says Tom Owen, Cathay Director Cargo. “We also divide our speciality cargo into three categories: time-sensitive, handling-sensitive, and temperaturesensitive.” Customers can further customise their experience by choosing from three levels of priority—First, Essential Plus, and

Essential—depending on the urgency of their shipment.

Handling live animals presents some of the most demanding challenges. Owen highlights the recent transportation of two pandas from Chengdu to Hong Kong, noting that these shipments require precise temperature control, lighting, pressure, and careful handling. Similarly, transporting racehorses between Hong Kong, Australia, and Europe demands specialised care.

Temperature-sensitive shipments, such as lobsters and fresh produce, are another critical focus. “For instance, we transport lobsters from Perth to Hong Kong and other markets. They must arrive alive and in good condition,” Owen shares. Cathay Cargo also tackles oversized cargo through its Cathay Expert solution, which handles heavy equipment like engines and compressors. “Our 747 freighters with a nose-loading capability make it easier to handle such large shipments,” Owen adds.

Efficiency through digital transformation

Cathay Cargo’s digital transformation journey, now in its fifth year, is reshaping its operations and enhancing customer interactions. “We’ve increased our spend

significantly on digital products,” Owen says, underscoring how these investments drive efficiency and innovation.

One notable advancement is UltraTrack, a tool that provides real-time monitoring of shipment temperature and pressure— critical for transporting temperaturesensitive goods like pharmaceuticals and fresh produce. Additionally, the Cargo Connect app equips operational staff with tools such as safety protocols, rosters, and real-time updates, streamlining ground operations. With 66% of bookings now completed online, customers benefit from reduced processing times and 24/7 accessibility.

The carrier is also leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance operations. “Our AI-enabled x-ray systems can identify areas requiring closer inspection for dangerous goods,” Owen notes. Looking ahead, Cathay Cargo is developing virtual reality training facilities to simulate loading freighters and securing oversized cargo, further enhancing operational excellence.

Enhancing cold chain capabilities for temperature-sensitive shipments

Cathay Cargo’s digital tools seamlessly

FEATURE - CATHAY CARGO

complement its robust cold chain infrastructure, ensuring the safe handling of temperature-sensitive shipments. “One of the advantages of Cathay Cargo is that we own our own terminal, Cathay Cargo Terminal in Hong Kong, which has the largest cold storage space available for handling facilities,” says Owen. This includes a 1,250-square-meter pharma room specifically designed for pharmaceutical shipments.

The terminal features inflatable truck docks that create an airtight seal, preventing hot air from entering or cold air from escaping during loading and unloading. “We also use Cool Dollies, large mobile refrigerated units, to transport freight from the aircraft to the cargo terminal, ensuring temperaturesensitive shipments aren’t exposed to the hot weather in Hong Kong,” Owen explains.

Owen adds, “We basically look from end to end, from the aircraft—which is temperature controlled—coming off from the cool dolly, coming into the pharma centre or the cold room directly, and then once you’re in the cold room, being stored in the warehouse system in the MobiFresh boxes.” This comprehensive approach ensures that temperature-sensitive goods are maintained at the required conditions throughout the entire supply chain.

Strengthening regional links and intermodal connectivity

As a gateway to the Greater Bay Area (GBA), Cathay Cargo is strategically positioned to enhance intermodal solutions for its customers. The Dongguan intermodal facility exemplifies this strategy. “It allows cargo to be security-cleared upstream, transported by barge to Hong Kong International Airport, and loaded directly onto aircraft,” Owen explains. This approach

enhances reliability and cost-efficiency while reducing reliance on road transport, offering improved supply chain visibility for e-commerce and temperature-sensitive shipments.

The GBA, with its population of over 80 million consumers and thriving manufacturing base, represents significant growth potential for Cathay Cargo. The 55-kilometre ZhuhaiMacau bridge has further opened up opportunities with Cathay Cargo working

FEATURE - CATHAY CARGO

to establish perishable acceptance facilities enabling the efficient distribution of fresh produce and other perishables from Hong Kong to the Chinese Mainland. “There’s constant opportunity, and we’re pretty optimistic that we’re going to continue to see growth,” Owen adds.

Collaboration is key to making these developments possible. “You cannot do

cargo on your own,” Owen emphasises. Working alongside the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), Cathay Cargo has helped establish the Dongguan facility, while partnerships with Hong Kong Customs and Excise ensure efficient trade flow with minimal obstacles. The carrier also maintains strong connections with freight forwarders and cargo terminals worldwide to enable seamless information

flow through IATA’s ONE Record messaging protocol standards.

A vision for growth and innovation

Looking ahead, Cathay Cargo is pursuing measured fleet expansion with six A350 freighters on firm order and options for 20 more, complementing its existing 747-8 freighters. These aircraft will offer improved fuel efficiency and increased payload capacity, supporting the carrier’s sustainability goals and operational scalability. Growth will also come through increased belly cargo capacity from Cathay Pacific’s passenger fleet of over 200 widebody aircraft. “We want to grow below the overall market rate. So we were quite conservative with our growth. But at the same time, we need to be big enough to provide the solutions that the freight forwarders need and want and be relevant in terms of scale,” Owen explains.

Digital innovation remains a priority, with plans to revamp the carrier’s website into a comprehensive platform for freight forwarders. “We recognise that we want to provide a one-stop shop for our freight forwarders and customers to work and interact with Cathay Cargo,” Owen says.

With over a thousand direct employees and hundreds more in supporting roles, workforce development underpins these ambitions. “We want to make sure they’re the best trained in the industry, the most engaged, and the most motivated to fulfil our brand promise to customers,” Owen emphasises. This focus on people alongside fleet modernisation and digital innovation, positions Cathay Cargo to maintain its leadership in specialised cargo solutions.

FEATURE - TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

Transportation management systems and their impact on logistics processes

By Nick Fryer, CEO, Sheer Logistics

Given the increasing complexity of logistics and supply chain management, efficiency and adaptability are paramount. Technological innovation, policy changes, and environmental concerns are all impacting supply lines globally, meaning logistics companies must be more agile and data-driven than ever before.

As Silvia Amaro, writing for CNBC put it, reporting from the WEF in Davos, “Although there has been a rebound in the sector, the recent conflicts, climate change and an overall complex geopolitical picture are leading to… a rethinking of the efficiency of certain processes.”

Against this dynamic backdrop, Transportation Management Systems (TMS) have emerged as indispensable tools. By facilitating more effective planning, execution, and optimisation of the physical movement of goods, both incoming and outgoing, these systems have revolutionised the industry.

Here, we’ll aim to demystify TMS and explore its beneficial impact on logistics processes, offering insights into why businesses should consider integrating this technology into their operations.

What is a Transportation Management System?

A TMS is a platform that provides both datadriven insights into a company’s logistics processes plus oversight of its transportation operations, allowing for more informed planning, cost management, analytics and reporting and optimised processes across all modes of transportation. From automated order processing to multimodal shipping and real-time order tracking, a robust TMS is designed to simplify the oftencomplex processes that make logistics such a challenging sector, with the agility and flexibility to respond to crises.

Who needs a Transportation Management System?

The simple answer is: any entity that deals with the transportation of goods. This encompasses a wide range of players in the supply chain, including manufacturers, e-commerce giants, logistics service providers, and retail businesses.

From small to medium size businesses that are growing quickly, to large organisations that manage a significant volume of freight and juggle multiple shipping methods and routes, a TMS is not just an asset; it’s a necessity. By streamlining operations and

offering granular visibility into the shipping process, a TMS can boost efficiency and reduce costs.

Even better, the more sophisticated systems can leverage the power of big data to perform complex analytics, identify trends, and reveal opportunities for improvement or innovation.

Why Is a Transportation Management System important?

Put simply – it allows companies to be proactive, rather than reactive. By streamlining the shipping journey from orders to delivery, a TMS allows its users to anticipate issues before they become crises. And when calamities do occur, a TMS can help you react quickly, to minimise impact.

Consider the recent Baltimore Francis Scott Key Bridge disaster. The Bridge carried 11.3 million vehicles per year, much of which would include trucks transporting goods. In addition to the tragic consequences of the collapse, it may take years to reconstruct this vital transportation route.

In the interim, companies using a TMS can readily re-route their consignments to avoid exacerbating traffic or delaying vital deliveries.

FEATURE - TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS

At its core, a TMS optimises the entire lifecycle of transportation logistics, from planning and procurement to logistics and settlement.

It plays a pivotal role in helping businesses navigate the complexities of modern-day logistics, including regulatory compliance, freight audit and payment, route planning, and execution.

By providing real-time data and analytics, a TMS empowers decision-makers to make informed choices, ultimately leading to more efficient, cost-effective, and reliable supply chains.

Benefits of using a Transportation Management System

The adoption of a TMS brings with it a host of advantages, enhancing competitive edge and customer satisfaction.

Here are some of the key benefits:

By automating many of the routine tasks associated with transportation management, a TMS allows businesses to streamline their logistics and transportation operations. This not only reduces manual errors but also frees up resources to focus on more strategic activities.

Better customer service

With a TMS, companies can provide their customers with more accurate and timely information regarding the status and ETA of their shipments, via email, SMS, notifications, or phone calls. Tracking systems can be employed to let customers know what delivery stage their shipment has reached in real-time.

Enhanced visibility into the transportation process means issues can be identified and addressed more quickly, leading to higher customer satisfaction levels.

Compliance and safety

Staying compliant with transportation laws and regulations is a complex, ever-changing challenge.

A robust TMS can help businesses stay on top of these requirements, minimizing the risk of penalties and fines. The best TMS platforms regularly update customs, safety, and security requirements when legislation changes, and flag such changes so users aren’t left in the dark.

Furthermore, a good TMS will contribute to safer transportation practices by monitoring

the proper handling and delivery of goods, from perishables requiring cold chain compliance, to bulky items requiring special delivery arrangements.

Data-driven decisions

One of the most significant advantages of a TMS is its ability to gather and analyse vast amounts of data. This enables businesses to identify trends, optimise routes, reduce costs, and make strategic decisions based on timely actionable insights.

How to choose the right Transportation Management System

Selecting a TMS that aligns with your business needs is crucial. Here are some factors to consider:

Scalability

Your chosen TMS should be able to grow with your business, accommodating increased volumes and complexity without compromising on performance.

User-friendliness

The system should be intuitive and easy to use, requiring minimal training for your team to get up to speed.

Integration

Look for a TMS that can seamlessly integrate with your existing business systems (ERP, WMS, etc.), ensuring smooth data flow across all platforms. Some logistics providers offer integration middleware that can radically accelerate the TMS implementation timeline.

Cost

While cost should not be the sole determining factor, it’s important to choose a TMS that offers good value, considering both upfront and ongoing expenses.

Transport

Management

Systems

keep us all on track

A Transportation Management System is not just a tool for managing logistics; it’s a strategic asset that can drive significant improvements in efficiency, customer satisfaction, and decision-making.

By selecting and implementing the right TMS, businesses can position themselves for success in the ever-more competitive world of global commerce.

FedEx doubles down on digital innovation in Asia Pacific with new Import Tool

As Asia Pacific gears up to become the fastest-growing region for imports in 2024, the demand for efficient, streamlined logistics solutions has never been greater. Navigating the complexities of cross-border trade—often marked by manual processes, fragmented systems, and delayed shipments—has long been a challenge for businesses in the region. Recognising this opportunity, FedEx launched its new Import Tool in October 2024, a digital innovation designed to simplify and centralise import operations, providing businesses greater control, transparency, and efficiency in managing their supply chains.

By addressing the region’s pressing need for smarter supply chain solutions, FedEx continues to position itself as a leader in digital transformation, helping businesses anticipate challenges and stay competitive in an ever-evolving global marketplace.

From manual to automated: Revolutionising the import process

The FedEx Import Tool is reshaping how businesses manage cross-border trade in Asia Pacific by addressing the inefficiencies of traditional import operations.

“Previously, import operations involved manual procedures, extensive offline coordination, and limited shipment visibility,” says Salil Chari, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Customer Experience, Asia

Pacific, FedEx. “Customers often dealt with fragmented experiences, requiring separate interactions with clearance agents via phone or email to provide missing customs information or documents. Shipment status inquiries also relied on customer service teams coordinating with clearance agents, sometimes leading to delays.”

Addressing these challenges, FedEx developed an integrated platform that centralises import activities. “The new tool offers an integrated, user-friendly platform which centralises import operations. It provides real-time notifications for required actions, such as submitting customs information or documents, which can be easily uploaded through the platform,” Chari explained.

With this streamlined approach, businesses benefit from greater transparency and efficiency, minimising the delays and manual interventions that previously hindered operations.

Adoption and user feedback

in key markets

Since its launch, the FedEx Import Tool has quickly gained traction in Asia Pacific. “Early feedback from users in Australia, Japan, Taiwan, and Korea has been very encouraging, highlighting the tool’s userfriendly design, which makes managing import shipments much simpler—a

common challenge for SMEs in the region,” says Chari.

Customers have praised its consolidated shipment visibility as one of the most useful features. “Users particularly value the consolidated visibility it provides, allowing them to monitor shipments and handle clearance tasks from a single platform,” Chari added.

Real-time notifications have also resonated with users, streamlining their ability to address clearance actions promptly. “Customers have told us that the tool’s realtime updates and notifications have helped them stay on top of shipment statuses and immediately address clearance actions, ultimately improving their operational efficiency,” Chari notes.

Listening closely to user feedback, FedEx is already planning enhancements. “In response to customer feedback, we are also developing a feature that enables proactive uploading of customs instructions and clearance documents,” Chari shares.

FedEx’s technology-driven future

FedEx’s technological advancements extend well beyond its Import Tool, reflecting its commitment to innovation across the logistics spectrum. One notable example is the AI-powered robotic sorting system at its Singapore hub. “Our AI-powered

robotic sorting arm at our Singapore hub can sort up to 1,000 packages per hour with an impressive accuracy rate of 98.5%, significantly accelerating sorting processes and reducing delivery times,” Chari said.

The company is also leveraging tools like FedEx Surround Monitoring and Intervention, which combines artificial intelligence with IoT to track high-value shipments in real time. “The FedEx Surround Monitoring and Intervention tool ensures the integrity and timely delivery of high-value shipments, such as those in healthcare, aerospace, and technology,” Chari explains.

By integrating these technologies, FedEx is building a smarter, more efficient logistics network. “Our focus is on leveraging data, advanced analytics, and automation to digitise supply chains, drive growth, and improve the shipping experience,” Chari states.

E-commerce growth shaping FedEx’s APAC strategy

The booming e-commerce sector in Asia Pacific continues to shape FedEx’s strategy in the region. “In the Asia Pacific region, this is especially evident as e-commerce continues to grow at an impressive rate. Our recent survey shows that 70% of APAC SMEs expect year-on-year sales growth during the ongoing holiday shopping season, with nearly 80% of that growth coming from within Asia, particularly Southeast Asia,” Chari says.

Complementing this growth, intra-Asia trade is projected to reach $13.5 trillion by 2030, further emphasising the need for streamlined logistics solutions. The FedEx Import Tool supports businesses in managing their supply chains effectively while addressing cross-border complexities.

In addition, FedEx offers solutions tailored to e-commerce needs. “We offer costeffective options like FedEx® International Connect Plus (FICP), which enables delivery between APAC, the U.S., and Europe in just one to three business days,” Chari notes.

Enhanced Ship Manager capabilities allow e-tailers to manage shipments directly from online orders, streamlining processes and improving efficiency.

“With over 50 compatible and alliance programs across the region, we offer affordable shipping solutions that help e-tailers sell effortlessly across e-commerce platforms,” Chari adds.

Shaping the future of logistics in the Asia Pacific

FedEx’s ongoing innovation is redefining logistics in the Asia-Pacific region. “At FedEx,

we are transforming towards a smarter, more efficient logistics network,” Chari said. The Import Tool, alongside advanced automation technologies, positions FedEx as a leader in driving digitalisation within the logistics industry.

“The pace at which we are developing and applying these technologies, along with the increasing use of connected data, is transforming our operations and how we serve customers, and that will continue to accelerate in the future,” Chari concludes.

By continuously harnessing digital innovation, FedEx is not only enhancing logistics operations but also paving the way for a more connected and efficient global supply chain.

SALIL CHARI

Senior Vice President of Marketing and Customer Experience,

Asia Pacific, FedEx

- SUPER TERMINAL

Super Terminal Expo 2024 showcases innovations and connections for airport transformation

The inaugural Super Terminal Expo 2024 turned Hong Kong’s AsiaWorld-Expo into a vibrant hub for innovation from 5 to 7 November 2024. Under the bold theme “Redefining Passenger and Cargo Handling Experience through Technological Innovation,” the event showcased groundbreaking advancements reshaping the aviation industry. From transformative technologies to strategic partnerships, the Expo illuminated the sector’s dedication to pushing boundaries in terminal operations.

Visionary leadership and transformative plans

Vivian Cheung, Acting CEO of Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK), set the tone for the event with a keynote address highlighting Hong Kong International Airport’s (HKIA) pivotal role in global aviation. She emphasised HKIA’s position as the world’s busiest air cargo hub, holding this title for 13 of the past 14 years, and outlined its advancements in digital transformation

through a paperless cargo data platform.

Cheung also detailed the ongoing expansion projects under HKIA’s Airport City initiative, including the completion of the threerunway system (3RS). These developments are not only aimed at elevating passenger and cargo experiences but also position HKIA as a sustainability leader. “The Super Terminal Expo presents an opportunity to showcase the latest advancements in airport design, construction, and operation,” she noted, reiterating HKIA’s goal to inspire global connectivity and inclusivity.

Michael Wong Wai-Lun, Acting Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, reinforced the ambitious vision during his address. He underscored the transformative potential of the 3RS project, which will increase HKIA’s capacity to accommodate 120 million passengers and 10 million tons of cargo annually. “This expansion solidifies Hong Kong’s position as a premier aviation

and logistics hub,” Wong stated, while highlighting strategic partnerships with Belt and Road countries, ASEAN nations, and the Dongguan Logistics Park, poised to handle one million tons of cargo annually.

Pioneering regional transformation: The Subic-Clark vision

The Philippines’ bold logistics ambitions took centre stage in the panel session titled Subic-Clark: Leading Gateways to the Philippines and Beyond, moderated by Payload Asia’s Chief Editor, Monina Eugenio. The discussion delved into the Subic-Clark corridor’s potential to become a regional logistics powerhouse by integrating air, sea, and rail transport systems.

Atty. Roberto C.O. Lim, Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports at the Philippine Department of Transportation, outlined the country’s advantages, including its strategic location, skilled workforce, and robust economic growth. Lim emphasised, “The Subic-Clark gateways are well-positioned

POST-EVENT - SUPER TERMINAL EXPO

as infrastructure-ready logistics hubs that will drive economic growth and global competitiveness.”

Ronnie Yambao of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) provided a deeper dive into the corridor’s operational framework, built on three pillars: automation, infrastructure development, and network expansion. He highlighted investments in port rehabilitation, advanced customs systems, and the upcoming SubicClark Railway, which aims to seamlessly connect logistics nodes.

Exploring the frontiers of aviation

Super Terminal Expo 2024’s conference programme became a hotbed of innovation, with panels addressing critical challenges and emerging trends in the aviation industry.

Safety and Seamlessness in Terminal Operations

The Safe Skies, Seamless Journeys panel, featuring experts from Nuctech, Arup,

and TAPA APAC, showcased cutting-edge solutions for enhancing passenger safety. Discussions spanned advanced threat detection systems and crowd management tools designed to create secure and efficient travel environments.

Air Cargo and Ground Handling Innovations

In the session Elevating Efficiency: Innovations and Challenges in Air Cargo and Terminal Ground Handling in Asia, leaders from HACTL, CAUC, and IBS Software explored strategic approaches to improve operational efficiency. Key topics included building resilient cargo ecosystems and leveraging digital tools to optimise performance.

Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)

The AAM Forum drew significant attention with its exploration of urban air mobility (UAM) solutions. Visionaries from EHang, Volocopter, and Skyports illuminated China’s

A global ecosystem of innovation

The inaugural Super Terminal Expo 2024 brought together a diverse array of stakeholders, including airport executives, technology innovators, policymakers, and infrastructure investors. Across the bustling exhibition floor and insightful conference sessions, one message resonated clearly: collaboration and innovation are the keys to redefining the future of aviation.

As the event concluded, the industry’s vision for the future stood firm—a commitment to breaking barriers and embracing transformative technologies to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving world. Super Terminal Expo 2024 has set the stage for a new era in aviation and logistics, driven by bold ideas and global collaboration.

leadership in eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft development, outlining steps to integrate these innovations into mainstream aviation.

POST-EVENT - AAPA ASSEMBLY

Asia Pacific Airlines chart a strategic course for aviation’s future at 68th AAPA Assembly

The 68th Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) Assembly of Presidents, held on 1213 November in Brunei Darussalam, brought together aviation leaders to address the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of Asia’s aviation industry. With the theme “Jetting into 2050: Future Proofing Asian Aviation,” the event served as a critical summit for industry executives to discuss innovation, sustainability, and long-term resilience.

Royal Brunei Airlines CEO Captain Sabirin Haji Abdul Hamid called for greater collaboration to tackle challenges such as labour shortages, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical uncertainties. He emphasised the need for collective action and urged platforms like AAPA and IATA to amplify the industry’s voice. Captain Sabirin also highlighted the resilience of the sector, noting that air traffic has not only recovered but surpassed pre-pandemic levels, demonstrating the capacity for growth through innovation and collaboration.

Brunei’s Minister of Transportation, Pengiran Dato Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha, emphasised aviation’s critical role in connecting global communities. He stressed the importance of sustainability, setting ambitious goals such as net-zero emissions by 2050 and 5% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) usage by 2030. The Minister also called for innovation, technological advancements, and collaboration to overcome challenges like supply chain disruptions.

Subhas Menon, Director General of AAPA, praised the recovery of the Asia Pacific aviation industry, particularly the progress in air cargo, driven by strong e-commerce demand. He highlighted that sustainable growth depends on coordinated global efforts and innovative solutions. However, he also pointed out challenges, such as potential competition from sea transport as trade lanes reopen and the need for more modern freighter aircraft to sustain longterm growth.

Tao Ma, Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), stressed the importance of safety, sustainability, and collaboration in shaping the future of aviation in the region. He reiterated safety as the industry’s foundational duty and called for stronger collaboration in data sharing and workforce diversity to drive innovation and reduce the sector’s carbon footprint.

Engaging panel sessions

The AAPA Assembly featured three impactful panel sessions on sustainability, emerging markets, and strategic directions.

The Aviation Sustainability: From Ground Zero to Net Zero 2050 panel focused on achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, with a particular emphasis on the ASEAN Sustainable Aviation Action Plan. Panelists stressed the need for collaboration across governments, industries, and stakeholders to drive sustainable aviation practices, including SAF production and infrastructure investment.

The Emerging Market Focus panel, featuring Bangkok Airways and Vietnam Airlines, discussed their recovery from the pandemic and innovative strategies for growth. The session also explored challenges like fleet management and the potential market entry of new aircraft manufacturers such as China’s COMAC.

In the Air Travel of Tomorrow panel, industry leaders discussed the importance of operational readiness, strategic investments, and government support. They projected a cautious 5-6% growth rate over the next decade and emphasised the transformative role of technologies like artificial intelligence in reshaping the industry.

Airbus’s vision for Asia Pacific aviation

Airbus projected a demand for 19,500 new aircraft in Asia Pacific by 2043, driven by a 4.8% annual growth rate in air travel. The company emphasised fleet modernisation and sustainability, with next-generation aircraft like the A350 and A330neo offering significant fuel efficiency improvements. The A220 was also noted for its potential to connect new city pairs for short- and medium-haul markets.

The demand for freighters in Asia was also highlighted, with Airbus forecasting a need for 250 wide-body freighters by 2043, driven by the A350 freighter’s efficiency and reduced emissions. Airbus acknowledged ongoing supply chain challenges but outlined steps to support suppliers and provide financing assistance. Anand Stanley, President of Airbus Asia Pacific, stressed the region’s role as a key driver of global aviation transformation.

New member milestone

A significant highlight of the Assembly was the inclusion of Lion Air as a new member.

As Indonesia’s largest privately-run airline and Southeast Asia’s leading budget carrier, Lion Air brings vital connectivity within Indonesia and to key international destinations. This membership strengthens AAPA’s role as a unifying voice for airlines with diverse business models in the region.

Approved resolutions

The Assembly adopted several key resolutions, reaffirming AAPA’s commitment to advancing the industry. AAPA called for a multi-pronged approach to achieving net-zero emissions, focusing on SAF, breakthrough technologies, and

POST-EVENT - AAPA

operational efficiencies. “We shouldn’t put all our eggs in one basket,” Menon said, emphasising that SAF is a promising but still emerging technology.

Safety remained a top priority, with the Assembly resolving to strengthen partnerships among civil aviation authorities, airlines, and safety agencies. Recommendations included leveraging data analysis and promoting a proactive safety culture. Menon reiterated, “Safety is the most important aspect of this industry. We need to leverage data and work closely with organisations like the Flight Safety Foundation to mitigate risks.”

Finally, AAPA addressed challenges from fragmented regulations and supply chain

disruptions, urging governments to avoid unilateral measures that increase airline costs without addressing the root causes. The Assembly stressed the need for harmonised protocols and greater recognition of aviation’s economic value. Reflecting on the region’s strong recovery, Menon concluded, “The sustained demand for air travel and the rebound in trade activity showcase the resilience of Asia Pacific airlines.”

The 68th AAPA Assembly underscored the airline industry’s collective resolve to navigate challenges and seize opportunities for growth and sustainability. As the industry moves forward, AAPA remains a vital force driving collaboration and innovation in Asia Pacific aviation.