Philippine Airlines partners with cargo . one to supercharge its first ever digital sales

 Philippine Airlines (PAL), the national carrier airline of the Philippines, announced today that it will soon debut its capacity in the digital booking market, following a new partnership with cargo . one. cargo . one enables the airline to target thousands of freight forwarders in relevant markets, digitally around the clock, bolstering its brand presence, reducing its cost of sale, and gaining market-responsive digital pricing. Freight forwarders are sure to benefit from Philippine Airlines’ renewed cargo service offers for the Philippines and across the region.

Respected as the very first commercial airline in Asia, Philippine Airlines extends its renowned attentive customer service levels to its air cargo services. The carrier is expanding its widebody fleet to facilitate an ambitious cargo growth strategy. Philippine Airlines offers freight forwarders a unique combination of 37 international destinations throughout South and East Asia, North America, Australia and the Middle East, and 32 destinations in the Philippines as well as favourable regional connectivity. 

cargo.one soon brings Philippine Airlines directly to thousands of forwarders globally. Leading global logistics providers rely upon cargo . one to quote and book shipments faster and more efficiently 24/7. Philippine Airlines gains cargo . one’s customer-centric and seamless digital booking experience, guaranteed to every customer.

New cargo routes between Tokyo's Haneda Airport and Sapporo's New Chitose Airport and Kitakyushu Airport lauched

Yamato, Japan Airlines and Spring Japan began operating dedicated cargo aircraft between Tokyo's Haneda Airport and Sapporo's New Chitose Airport and Kitakyushu Airport on Thursday, August 1, 2024. This new development makes Haneda Airport the fifth airport to be served by these freighters, following Narita Airport, New Chitose Airport, Kitakyushu Airport, and Naha Airport, which have been in service since April 11, 2024. 

The new cargo services will include routes between Haneda Airport (Tokyo) and New Chitose Airport (Sapporo, Hokkaido) and Kitakyushu Airport (Kitakyushu, Fukuoka). These freighters are the only scheduled cargo flights in Japan to service Haneda Airport and will operate during the late night hours when existing passenger aircraft are not in operation. This allows for the speedy and highly fresh distribution of products to more distant locations while maintaining daytime production times for products and harvesting and catching times for agricultural and marine products. Like similar existing operations at Narita Airport, this method also does not impede smooth connections for international morning departures for passengers at Haneda Airport.

Harnessing the strengths of these freighters, Yamato Holdings and the two airline companies will help producers and business operators expand their trade areas and aid the revitalization of regional industries through rapid transportation, an advantage of air transport, highly convenient flight schedules including late night hours, and a transportation network that stretches even beyond Japan's borders, in addition to securing stable transportation capacity.

IAG Cargo Partners with Group Concorde as General Sales Agent in Eight Countries

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), has appointed Group Concorde as its General Sales Agent (GSA) across eight countries. This partnership signifies a major expansion for both companies, aiming to enhance cargo operations and customer service in Cambodia, the Philippines, Myanmar, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Australia, and New Zealand.

Over the next three months, Group Concorde will seamlessly assume responsibility for cargo sales operations in these key markets. Leveraging its extensive industry experience and robust network to drive growth and efficiency, Group Concorde will focus on driving growth and enhancing efficiency. This collaboration will amplify IAG Cargo’s market presence providing customers in these regions with streamlined access to IAG Cargo's expansive network and services.

CEO of Group Concorde, Prithviraj Chug, expressed excitement about the partnership: "We are honoured to be appointed as IAG Cargo's General Sales Agent in these vibrant markets. This opportunity aligns perfectly with our mission to provide exceptional cargo solutions and enhance our global network. We look forward to working closely with IAG Cargo to deliver unparalleled service and support to our customers."

Yamato launches new cargo route between Tokyo and Sapporo/Kitakyushu

Yamato, Japan Airlines and Spring Japan began operating dedicated cargo aircraft between Tokyo's Haneda Airport and Sapporo's New Chitose Airport and Kitakyushu Airport on Thursday, August 1, 2024. This new development makes Haneda Airport the fifth airport to be served by these freighters, following Narita Airport, New Chitose Airport, Kitakyushu Airport, and Naha Airport, which have been in service since April 11, 2024. 

The new cargo services will include routes between Haneda Airport (Tokyo) and New Chitose Airport (Sapporo, Hokkaido) and Kitakyushu Airport (Kitakyushu, Fukuoka). These freighters are the only scheduled cargo flights in Japan to service Haneda Airport and will operate during the late night hours when existing passenger aircraft are not in operation. This allows for the speedy and highly fresh distribution of products to more distant locations while maintaining daytime production times for products and harvesting and catching times for agricultural and marine products. Like similar existing operations at Narita Airport, this method also does not impede smooth connections for international morning departures for passengers at Haneda Airport.

Harnessing the strengths of these freighters, Yamato Holdings and the two airline companies will help producers and business operators expand their trade areas and aid the revitalization of regional industries through rapid transportation, an advantage of air transport, highly convenient flight schedules including late night hours, and a transportation network that stretches even beyond Japan's borders, in addition to securing stable transportation capacity.

Three more cargo 747-8s for Atlas Air

BOC Aviation Limited confirmed today,  the placement of three Boeing 747-8 freighters with new customer Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. All three aircraft are powered by General Electric GEnx engines and are scheduled for delivery in 3Q 2024.

“Atlas manages the world’s largest fleet of Boeing 747 freighter aircraft and is ideally placed to partner with us in the operation of these latest-generation aircraft,” said Steven Townend, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director. “As global airfreight volumes hit record highs this transaction highlights our ability to provide capacity solutions to a wide variety of airline customers.”

“As the world’s largest operator of 747 freighters, we are delighted to work with BOC Aviation to expand our widebody fleet with these three 747-8Fs,” said Michael Steen, Atlas Air Worldwide Chief Executive Officer. “Our growth in this aircraft type underscores Atlas’ commitment to the 747-freighter platform and the value it provides our customers, including significant payload capacity and unique nose-loading capability. Through our ongoing investments in innovation and our fleet, we continue to create additional operational flexibility, providing world-class service and acting as a trusted partner to our customers."

The 747-8 freighter excels as the most capable, technologically advanced, and environmentally friendly widebody freighter on the market. The 747-8F provides the largest load capacity in the market, with a 20% increase in payload capacity over the 747-400F, along with 25% more capacity than the 777-200LRF. The 747-8 has a 16% reduction in fuel consumption compared to the 747-400F. Additionally, the 747-8 freighter is the only factory-built freighter with nose-loading capability, meeting the long-term demands of the airfreight sector. Atlas stands out as the world’s largest operator of Boeing 747 freighter aircraft, with a fleet that includes 65 aircraft, consisting of 17 747-8Fs, 39 747-400Fs, 4 Large Cargo Freighters (LCFs) and 5 passenger 747-400s

Atlas Air Worldwide is a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services. It is the parent company of Atlas Air, Inc., and Titan Aviation Holdings, Inc., and is the majority shareholder of Polar Air Cargo Worldwide, Inc. Our companies operate the world’s largest fleet of 747 freighter aircraft and provide customers the broadest array of Boeing 747, 777, 767 and 737 aircraft for domestic, regional and international cargo and passenger operations.

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BOC Aviation places three 747-8 cargo planes with Atlas Air

BOC Aviation Limited confirmed today,  the placement of three Boeing 747-8 freighters with new customer Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. All three aircraft are powered by General Electric GEnx engines and are scheduled for delivery in 3Q 2024.

“Atlas manages the world’s largest fleet of Boeing 747 freighter aircraft and is ideally placed to partner with us in the operation of these latest-generation aircraft,” said Steven Townend, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director. “As global airfreight volumes hit record highs this transaction highlights our ability to provide capacity solutions to a wide variety of airline customers.”

“As the world’s largest operator of 747 freighters, we are delighted to work with BOC Aviation to expand our widebody fleet with these three 747-8Fs,” said Michael Steen, Atlas Air Worldwide Chief Executive Officer. “Our growth in this aircraft type underscores Atlas’ commitment to the 747-freighter platform and the value it provides our customers, including significant payload capacity and unique nose-loading capability. Through our ongoing investments in innovation and our fleet, we continue to create additional operational flexibility, providing world-class service and acting as a trusted partner to our customers."

The 747-8 freighter excels as the most capable, technologically advanced, and environmentally friendly widebody freighter on the market. The 747-8F provides the largest load capacity in the market, with a 20% increase in payload capacity over the 747-400F, along with 25% more capacity than the 777-200LRF. The 747-8 has a 16% reduction in fuel consumption compared to the 747-400F. Additionally, the 747-8 freighter is the only factory-built freighter with nose-loading capability, meeting the long-term demands of the airfreight sector. Atlas stands out as the world’s largest operator of Boeing 747 freighter aircraft, with a fleet that includes 65 aircraft, consisting of 17 747-8Fs, 39 747-400Fs, 4 Large Cargo Freighters (LCFs) and 5 passenger 747-400s

Atlas Air Worldwide is a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services. It is the parent company of Atlas Air, Inc., and Titan Aviation Holdings, Inc., and is the majority shareholder of Polar Air Cargo Worldwide, Inc. Our companies operate the world’s largest fleet of 747 freighter aircraft and provide customers the broadest array of Boeing 747, 777, 767 and 737 aircraft for domestic, regional and international cargo and passenger operations.

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IAG Cargo opens new operations control centre at London Heathrow

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), today announces the opening of its brand new, cutting-edge control centre sitting at the centre of its largest hub at London Heathrow. The new London Operations Control Centre will significantly improve on the day decision making with comprehensive real-time data and workload forecasting tools used by teams managing over 2,000 freight movements per day allowing them to take proactive action to mitigate risks to the operation. 

IAG Cargo has opened its new London Operations Control Centre, a major step forward in its plan to drive operational performance improvements for its customers

The new facility, equipped with cutting-edge technology for real-time cargo monitoring, is designed to manage over 2,000 freight movements per day

At the heart of this facility sits the latest in audio-visual and data visualisation technology at every workstation, along with a new digital wall to improve the control team’s coordination, situational awareness and visualisation of key operational data. This investment will support positive changes in operational efficiency, allowing teams to quickly view real-time positioning of all freight and equipment across the vast London Heathrow hub, as well as key data from various operational systems, all within a centralised platform.

David Rose, Director of London Operations at IAG Cargo said, “The opening of our new London Operations Control Centre is the latest example of IAG Cargo’s investment in our commitment to be a customer-led and operationally efficient business and a great place to work for our teams. This brand-new facility represents a major leap forward for our operational management in London and will totally change how we oversee our day to day operations, giving our teams the tools to boost our operational quality and equip them with technology that allows us to anticipate and mitigate potential issues before they arise. This is a significant step forward as part of our broad and ambitious transformation plan at IAG Cargo.”

Alongside this investment in new technology, IAG Cargo is also introducing six new senior management roles to lead day to day operations in its new control centre, ensuring consistent high quality performance for customers around the clock. Teams working in the new London Operations Control Centre have also played an active part in the development of the new facility, with their feedback being used to shape the final design.

 

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CDB Aviation delivers an Airbus A330-300P2F to MNG Airlines

CDB Aviation, announced this week the delivery of one Airbus A330-300 Passenger to Freighter (“P2F”) aircraft to a new customer in Türkiye, MNG Airlines.

The high-in-demand A330 P2F aircraft, which offers more cargo volume and lower cost-per-ton than other available freighter aircraft types with a similar range, will help advance MNG Airlines’ ambitious growth and fleet modernization targets.

“We are delighted to welcome MNG Airlines as our newest customer in the EMEA region, as we continue to grow our fleet of efficient medium-sized freighters that provide airline customers with the needed capacity to modernize their fleets and enhance cargo operations,” commented Jie Chen, CDB Aviation’s Chief Executive Officer.

Ali Sedat Özkazanç, Chief Executive Officer of MNG Airlines, stated: “As part of an ongoing transformation in the aviation industry, cargo transport is playing an increasingly critical role. We are further enhancing its capacity to adapt to the industry’s dynamic environment by adding new aircraft to our growing fleet. At the same time, while we are modernizing our fleet, we are expanding our regional and international network by improving our service quality with this new aircraft and the other already existing A330 P2Fs in our fleet. This delivery by CDB Aviation to MNG Airlines represents a strengthening of the cooperation between the two companies and an essential step for MNG Airlines' growth strategy. The delivery of the Airbus A330-300 P2F aircraft increases our cargo operations capacity and contributes to our sustainability goals by reducing our carbon footprint with lower fuel consumption and emission levels. Therefore, we believe this collaboration can set an example for other airlines in the industry.”

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Malaysia Aviation Group cargo division selects Unisys for logistics optimization

Unisys announces that MAB Kargo, the air cargo division of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), selects Unisys and its logistics optimization solution to significantly enhance its operational efficiency, capacity utilization, and service delivery.

Like many in the air cargo industry, MAB Kargo faces challenges with time-consuming planning and loading processes that result in underutilized space on flights, missed revenue opportunities, and even damage to shipments. To meet its customers’ demands globally in today’s environment, MAB Kargo has chosen Unisys Logistics Optimization™.

MAB Kargo CEO Mark Jason Thomas praises the partnership, stating, “Investing in advanced technologies like Unisys Logistics Optimization will allow us to cement our position as an industry leader. The solution’s ability to replan in near-real-time gives us the agility to manage disruptions and maximize our assets.

MAB Kargo chose Unisys Logistics Optimization solution to achieve the following:

IAG Cargo supports aid efforts to Grenada following Hurricane Beryl

IAG Cargo has flown over critical aid to support Grenada in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl

Items transported include tents and covers, hygiene supplies, first aid kits, water purifying equipment along with bedding and food supplies

                                  IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group, is working with organisations such as the Grenada Overseas Association Manchester and All Saints Parish Church Bedford, alongside the Grenada High Commission in the UK to transport aid to Grenada following the devasting impact of Hurricane Beryl on Jul 1.

In early August, critical aid was flown on a British Airways 777 to Maurice Bishop International Airport, delivering vital relief in the wake of Beryl's devastation. The shipment, facilitated by IAG Cargo, included first aid kits, water purification systems, bedding, non-perishable food items, and hygiene supplies, addressing urgent needs in housing, agriculture and infrastructure.

"IAG Cargo is committed to swift action during humanitarian crises," stated John Cheetham, Chief Commercial Officer. "Leveraging our global network, we are proud to collaborate with charities to deliver essential aid to Grenada and I’m thankful to our team who have worked to support this effort.” 

LATAM Group begins renewal of cargo fleet.....

LATAM Group has taken delivery of a Boeing 767BCF freighter aircraft as part of the carrier's strategy to operate with a more efficient and modern cargo fleet. And, at just 11 years old, this jet is one of the company's youngest freighter aircraft.

Currently, LATAM Group operates a total fleet of 340 aircraft, including 57 Boeing passenger aircraft, including 767, 777 and 787 and 262 Airbus aircraft spread between the following models, A319, A320, A320neo, A321 and A321neo.

The company previously announced a plan to grow its cargo fleet, with the inclusion of eight passenger aircraft converted to cargo and an increase in capacity by more than 70% compared to pre-pandemic levels. Now, with 21 Boeing 767 freighters, the group offers the most extensive cargo operation in the region, connecting 166 destinations in 33 countries, of which 18 are cargo-only.

Gudny Genskowsky, Senior Vice President of Network and Cargo Alliances at LATAM said:  "Complementing our capacity offering in the passenger aircraft holds with the incorporation of a new Boeing 767BCF, in line with our strategy of renewing the fleet with younger and more efficient aircraft, will allow us to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs and continue to offer a more reliable and sustainable service to our customers," 

 

Big Day for Pattaya Airways

The 8th of August was a big day for Pattaya Airways,  after 9 months of relentless effort and dedication cumulated in the significant achievement of receiving an Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, a testament to our unwavering capability and high standards in aviation. 

As a result of that announcement, Nat Boonyavichkanont, Chief Executive Officer of Pattaya Airways Co. held a number of meetings with influential people in the industry, including Francis Anthony, Group Head of Commercial Cargo at Teleport Commerce Malaysia Sdn Bhd.  Together they signed an Interline Agreement for air cargo transportation within the ASEAN region. This partnership aims to integrate the cargo transportation networks of both companies, enhancing efficiency and expanding business opportunities for air cargo services across ASEAN. The collaboration is expected to strengthen the operational capabilities of both companies in the future.

Boonyavichkanont also met with Jerome Brohier, Managing Director of ACE Global Logistics Solutions, and also signed an air cargo transportation partnership agreement. This agreement represents a strong collaboration between the two companies, aimed at enhancing the efficiency of air cargo systems. The partnership will leverage the resources and expertise of both parties to provide high-quality cargo services that effectively meet the needs of customers in the ASEAN region. 

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ATSG Delivers Boeing 767-300 Freighter to Euroavia Airlines

Air Transport Services Group,  announced this week that its subsidiary, Cargo Aircraft Management (CAM), has leased a Boeing 767-300 converted freighter to New York-based SLG Worldwide, who will sublease the aircraft to Euroavia Airlines, a cargo airline headquartered in Larnaca, Cyprus.

“SLG Worldwide is an experienced provider of logistics and aviation services around the world,” said Mike Berger, chief executive officer of ATSG. “Our leasing arrangement with SLG Worldwide in support of a new cargo airline exemplifies the attractiveness of our Lease+Plus package. We can support a new carrier with access to multiple services, including maintenance, ensuring timely delivery of additional capacity to the Eurasia markets.”

"We are thrilled to partner with ATSG to expand capacity with this Boeing 767-300 freighter," stated Martin Zhu, chairman of Euroavia Airlines. "This addition will significantly enhance our ability to serve the growing demand in the Eurasia & Middle East region, providing reliable and efficient cargo services."

Air Europa Cargo partners with cargo . one to propel its global digital sales

Air Europa Cargo and cargo . one today unveiled a global partnership that brings the popular Spanish carrier’s cargo capacity to the leading platform for digital air cargo bookings. cargo.one will soon launch Air Europa Cargo’s services to its substantial global community of freight forwarders. Air Europa Cargo has turned its attention to cargo.one as a fully digital, truly global platform partner to improve visibility of its offers, reduce its cost of sale and guarantee customers a robust and user-friendly booking experience.

Building on more than 30 years of air transport experience, Air Europa Cargo offers the forwarding industry flexible and reliable capacity, with 130 cargo destinations spanning Europe, North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Middle East and Africa. The airline leverages hubs in Madrid and Barcelona and offers forwarders particularly strong Latin American connectivity. Its modern fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliner and 737 aircraft enable both large and varied load capacity.

In the coming weeks, thousands more freight forwarders will be able to secure Air Europa Cargo capacities digitally, using the most high quality, user-friendly experience on the market. The cargo.one platform equips forwarders with rapid access to supply, as well as cutting edge tools for winning and processing shipments. Forwarders can soon discover, quote and book Air Europa offers for general cargo, perishables and pharma shipments up to 1.5 tons.

Jordi Pique Dalmau, General Manager, Air Europa Cargo, comments, “Our extensive cargo services have evolved greatly and now is the ideal time to broaden our global reach and digital growth by working with cargo.one. The partnership enables us to apply the latest digital best practices and double-down on the valuable strategic gains from digital distribution”.

Moritz Claussen, Founder & Co-CEO of cargo.one, adds, “We are delighted to take Air Europa Cargo’s digital sales to the next level and expand its digital footprint to many more forwarders across the world. In preparation for Peak Season, it makes every sense for Air Europa Cargo to enhance its booking experience and build new sales muscle for all its relevant markets.”

IAG Cargo reports revenues of €566 million for the first half of the year

Tonnage was up 7.8% 

Implementing new technologies, investing in facilities and expanding transport solutions key to enhancing customer experience and improving efficiency

Today, the cargo division of International Airlines Group, IAG Cargo, has reported its financial results for the first half of this year.  The business reported commercial revenues of €566 million for the period from January 1 to June 30, 2024. 

IAG Cargo’s tonnage was up 7.8%, versus the same period last year; revenues represent a decrease of 6.1%. Yields for H1 2024 were below those of H1 2023. 

"We achieved solid results with year-on-year volume growth in a global market characterised by less supply chain constraint than we experienced last year," said David Shepherd, Chief Executive Officer of IAG Cargo. "This positive momentum is a testament to our strategic investments across our business, which are already delivering substantial value, choice and flexibility for our customers."

Investing in Transformation for a Stronger Future

IAG Cargo has been actively implementing transformative initiatives across its operations, focusing on enhancing the customer experience and driving operational efficiency. The commitment to industry-leading standards is highlighted by IAG Cargo joining the IATA Digital Charter and signing up to the One Record protocol in Q2 2024, further streamlining data exchange and transparency within the air cargo supply chain.

"We are committed to leveraging technology to enhance our operations and are actively expanding our IT and digital team to accelerate these initiatives," added Shepherd. "Our new pricing system is providing greater agility in offering market-relevant rates to our customers, while the implementation of a cutting-edge AI-powered camera solution at our London Heathrow hub is optimising efficiency in cargo loading planning and ultimately improving customer CiQ quality."

Expanding Network Reach and Capacity

ATSG delivers two Boeing 767s to Georgian Airways

Air Transport Services Group, announced that its leasing subsidiary Cargo Aircraft Management (CAM) recently delivered two Boeing 767-300 aircraft to Georgian Airways LLC of Tbilisi, Georgia under multi-year leases.

One of the two Boeing 767-300s is a passenger aircraft delivered in June, while the other is a newly converted freighter delivered in July.

"We are pleased to deepen our partnership with ATSG with these two aircraft," said David Gaiashvili, general director of Georgian Airways. "Founded over three decades ago, Georgian Airways has established itself as a trusted leader in the aviation industry with a steadfast commitment to safety and a relentless pursuit of excellence. We are looking forward to growing with ATSG following its great experience and expertise in the industry."

Georgian Airways offers scheduled, charter and regular flights across Europe, the Baltic region, the Caucasus, the Black Sea Region, the Middle East, and eastern and southern Asia.

"These leases reflect the growing demand for global air capacity and reinforce our Lease+Plus strategy, providing comprehensive, reliable, and flexible leasing solutions for our global customers," said Mike Berger, chief executive officer of ATSG. "We are excited to grow capacity with our existing customers, as it validates the value ATSG brings to the leasing market. Medium widebody freighters like the Boeing 767 and Airbus A330 are ideal for cargo airlines based in Eastern Europe and Western Asia. The geographic location of Tbilisi is an excellent mid-point for goods flowing out of China and ultimately destined for Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East."

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IBS Software and Singapore Airlines Co-Develop Shipment Record Solution

 Singapore Airlines, a world-leading global carrier, is collaborating with IBS Software to co-develop a shipment record solution. This will make substantial strides in digitally transforming air cargo operations and advancing towards IATA's ONE Record standards through the digitisation of shipment records and usage of technology.

The two companies, in conjunction with Cargo Community Network (CCN), have successfully completed the first phase of this plan that involves the creation and sharing of shipment records across airlines, cargo community system providers and ground handling agents on the ONE Record platform. CCN's open data collaboration platform, CUBEforall, enhances data exchange and transparency, while seamlessly integrating legacy systems with ONE Record standards. This milestone was presented during the IATA ONE Record roadshow in Singapore on July 23, 2024.

Shipment records are one of the most frequently used documents in air cargo, forming the basis for all key processes in sales, planning and execution for organisations. Today, a single shipment results in multiple copies of shipment records across individual stakeholders, and the process of handling physical paper-based documents can be inefficient. Tapping on this new technology can help enhance overall operational efficiencies.  

The digitisation of shipment records through ONE Record will enable Singapore Airlines to maintain a single source of truth, allowing the data to be utilised beyond the physical life cycle of shipments. This streamlined data exchange will facilitate transparency and visibility across reporting, revenue accounting and future planning for all stakeholders. From airline to shipper, IBS Software will increase the accessibility of shipment data for all partners in the air cargo supply chain.

Digital shipment records are fundamental for the future of digital cargo, providing a solution to address incompatible legacy systems, data duplication, and reduced data integrity. The successful implementation of the shipment record based on ONE Record lays the foundation for Singapore Airlines to implement more innovative use cases, to help enhance efficiencies.

Ashok Rajan, Head of Cargo and Logistics Solutions at IBS Software, added, "Partnering with Singapore Airlines, a globally recognised leader in aviation innovation, to drive the digital future of air cargo is a significant objective for IBS Software. In today's cargo industry, data accessibility and transparency are paramount. Data and digitalisation are key enablers for the development of solutions that allow cargo carriers to grow and meet their customers' evolving needs. We are proud to have the support of an industry pioneer like Singapore Airlines in enhancing accessibility and excellence in the digitalisation of air cargo."

Marvin Tan, Senior Vice President Cargo at Singapore Airlines, said, "At Singapore Airlines, we continuously invest and innovate in all aspects of the business. By co-developing a digital shipment record solution with IBS Software, we remain committed to meeting IATA's ONE Record's goal for enhanced data visibility for all our stakeholders. This collaboration positions both organisations at the forefront of cargo digitalisation, as we unlock new efficiencies and business opportunities and respond to the evolving needs of the industry."

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June air cargo demand surges 14.1%, boosting strong first half performance

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for June 2024 global air cargo markets showing continuing strong annual growth in demand. This contributed to an exceptional first half-year performance for air cargo, with volumes exceeding 2023, 2022, and even the record-breaking 2021 levels.

•    Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs*), rose by 14.1% compared to June 2023 levels (15.6% for international operations). This is the seventh consecutive month of double-digit year-on-year growth. 

•    Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTKs), increased by 8.8% compared to June 2023 (10.8% for international operations). 

•    Total half-year (H1) demand increased by 13.4% compared to H1 2023, by 4.3% compared to H1 2022, and by 0.02% compared to H1 2021.

"Air cargo demand surged in June. Strong growth across all regions and major trade lanes combined for a record-breaking first-half performance in terms of CTKs. Maritime shipping constraints and a booming e-commerce sector are among the strongest growth drivers. Meanwhile, the sector has remained largely impervious to ongoing political and economic challenges, and the US customs crackdown on e-commerce deliveries from China. Air cargo looks to be on solid ground to continue its strong performance into the second half of 2024," said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Several factors in the operating environment should be noted:

•    In June the Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) for global manufacturing output indicated expansion (52.3) while the new export orders PMI registered a small contraction, falling below the critical 50-point benchmark to 49.3.

•    Global cross-border trade expanded 0.1% month-on-month in May while industrial production stayed level compared to the previous month. 

•    Inflation was a mixed picture in June. In the EU and Japan, inflation rates stayed roughly constant compared to the previous month at 2.6% and 2.8% respectively, while dropping in the US to 3.0%. In contrast, China’s inflation rate remained near zero (0.3%) reflecting weak domestic demand amid high unemployment, slow income growth, and a crisis in the real estate sector, a trend that has persisted since 2023.

National Airlines to order four Boeing 777 Freighters

Boeing and National Airlines announced this week the global carrier has committed to placing its first order for four 777 Freighters. Currently the longest-range twin-engine freighter with unrivalled payload capacity, the 777 Freighter will help maximize the airline's commercial cargo service and boost market share across its global operations.

"We are elated by this remarkable order of four Boeing 777 Freighters. This demonstrates our commitment to offering efficient, resourceful, and modern air freight services to support our global customers' increasing transportation demands," said Christopher Alf, chairman of National Airlines. "The order affirms our fleet growth plan as we enter into the next chapter of National. We sincerely appreciate the support by Boeing and all its associated teams in this journey ahead."

Once finalized, if an agreement can be reached on price and delivery date,  National Airlines' first direct purchase of Boeing aeroplanes will be posted to Boeing's Orders & Deliveries website.

Royal Air Maroc Cargo kick-starts its first digital bookings with cargo . one

Royal Air Maroc Cargo partners with cargo . one as the industry leader for equipping carriers with fully digital distribution

With cargo.one's first North African carrier, customers gain seamless and joyful digital access to Royal Air Maroc Cargo’s growing capacity around the clock

Royal Air Maroc Cargo and cargo.one unveiled a global partnership that brings the Moroccan national carrier’s cargo capacity to the leading platform for digital air cargo bookings. Providing its first digital sales channel, cargo.one now delivers its user-friendly and efficient booking platform for Royal Air Maroc Cargo offers. The airline partnered with cargo.one based on its ability to deliver a world-class digital booking experience and visibility across cargo.one’s vast global footprint of customer markets.

Freight forwarders using cargo.one now have instant digital access to valuable connectivity from Royal Air Maroc Cargo. Offering both belly and dedicated freighter capacity, Royal Air Maroc Cargo is developing fast. With a flexible fleet and its main hub in Casablanca, the carrier benefits from a geostrategic location at the crossroads of international air cargo lanes linking the Americas, Europe, Africa and the Middle-East. Royal Air Maroc Cargo offers a broad range of cargo services catering to many industries and sectors. 

cargo.one delivers forwarders the go-to choice for instantly scanning the global market and quoting and booking confirmed shipments at speed. The launch of Royal Air Maroc Cargo services further enriches cargo.one’s acclaimed diversity of global supply options. Subject to route availability, Royal Air Maroc Cargo customers can now book digitally for General Cargo shipments up to 1000kg (wide body) and 500kg (narrow body), and perishable shipments in the coming weeks, with all bookings benefiting from cargo.one standards for usability, control and competitive rates.