AG Cargo opens Dublin - Denver route

IAG Cargo has announced a new route between Dublin and Denver for the first time in its history.  From 17th May 2024, IAG Cargo customers will have the opportunity to transport goods directly between Dublin and Denver with a frequency of four times per week, utilising an Airbus 330-200 aircraft.

Additionally, services between Dublin and Toronto will also see a boost in capacity due to a wide body Airbus 330-200 now being used four times a week on the service.

This new service and additional capacity further support IAG Cargo’s Dublin hub as a gateway to North America, boasting over 80 weekly wide-body rotations - the additional services are essential to facilitating the movement of pharmaceutical products. This is incredibly important for Ireland as the Central Statistics Office revealed that medical and pharmaceutical items are the largest export for the country and have increased by €2,908 million (+48%) to €8,993 million in January 2024 compared with January 2023.[1]

Camilo Garcia Cervera, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at the cargo division of International Airlines Group said: “We are really pleased to be introducing additional direct routes for our customers, connecting Ireland and the US. Ireland’s strategic location and business friendly environment have established it as a key hub for the pharmaceutical industry. The additional capacity adds to our strong network offering in North America, giving local businesses a vital connection to global markets.”

. Special discount for a limited time! Save up to 30% now. 
 

IAG Cargo invests 1.5 million Euros in perishables facility at Madrid hub

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), has recently invested €1.5 million into the expansion of its temperature-controlled perishables facility in Madrid. This forms part of a total €12 million invested in the business’ Spanish hub over the last 6 years.

As the first point of entry into the EU for perishables, IAG Cargo boasts an extensive network of connections from Latin America, with Madrid serving as a vital centre for distribution of produce across the region. This investment will increase the total capacity of the facility by 45% and will home 1,340 square metres of dedicated temperature-controlled space for perishable goods, offering customers the largest cooling chambers at Madrid airport. These chambers bring improved reliability and efficiency to IAG Cargo’s cold chain operations in Europe and are monitored 24/7 to ensure temperature sensitive goods are held in the correct conditions.

This forms part of IAG Cargo’s wider 12 million Euro investment into its Madrid hub over the last 6 years to enhance services for customers

The expansion of the facility will provide more capacity for the transportation of fruit, vegetables, meat, and fish between Latin America and Europe

The new facility features state-of-the-art cooling chambers to maintain the integrity of perishable goods

Fernando Terol Armas, Director of Spanish Hub and Operations at IAG Cargo said: “We are thrilled to announce this latest investment in our Madrid facility, which further demonstrates our commitment to providing the highest quality service to our customers.

With the expansion of our temperature-controlled space and state-of-the-art cooling chambers, we can now offer even greater capacity for perishable goods, ensuring their integrity is maintained throughout the supply chain. This investment will enable us to continue to serve as a vital link between Latin America and Europe, and we look forward to supporting our customers' growth in this region.”

Ramon Rey, International Director of Eurobanan that houses tropical fruit brand Isla Bonita added, “We are delighted by the additional capacity IAG Cargo has created at their perishables facility in Madrid. This development will allow us to continue delivering premium quality fruits and vegetables to consumers across Spain year-round. With enhanced logistics, IAG Cargo enables us to ensure that freshness is never compromised.”

The expansion of this facility will benefit customers importing fruit and vegetables, including asparagus from Peru and Los Angeles, papayas from Brazil, and mangos from Dominican Republic, as well as meat from Argentina and Uruguay, and fish, such as hake and salmon, from Chile.

.

UK Government release aviation SAF plan to support growth of British aviation sector........

SAF industry estimated to boost the economy by £1.8 billion and create more than 10,000 jobs across the UK by 2030

The UK Department for Transport government's new Sustainable Aviation Fuel Mandate sets new targets to ensure that 10% of all jet fuel in aircraft taking off from the UK comes from sustainable sources by 2030. 

The UK’s SAF mandate will come into force in January 2025 and be one of the first in the world to be put into law, subject to approval by parliament. The move follows the world’s first commercial 100% SAF transatlantic flight taking off from Heathrow in November – backed by up to £1 million in government investment.

The government has committed to ambitious but achievable targets that will see around 1.2 million tonnes of SAF supplied to the UK airline industry each year – enough to circle the globe 3,000 times.  The plans are good for aviation, the environment and for the UK overall with the SAF industry estimated to add over £1.8 billion to the economy and create over 10,000 jobs across the country. 

£135 million of funding was recently allocated through the Advanced Fuels Fund, with the aim of supporting the growth of 13 groundbreaking SAF projects across the UK. 

It is recognised that SAF is likely to be more expensive than traditional jet fuel, at least in the immediate term, the plan ensures decarbonisation doesn’t come at the expense of consumers as the rationing of flights through ‘demand management’ is ruled out in the plan. 

The plan includes a review mechanism to help manage prices and minimise the impact on ticket fares for passengers. The government also has the power to change key limits within the mandate to block higher price rises in the case of SAF shortages – keeping the impact on consumers to a minimum. 

Providing sufficient SAF is available, any increases in air fares as a result of SAF will fall well within the range of usual fluctuations in prices we see every year and the government have plans in place to prevent any major hikes.

Transport Secretary Mark Harper said:      "Sustainable aviation fuel protects the future of UK aviation, the thousands of British jobs that depend on it, and the holidays and business travel flights that we all rely on.

 As part of our plan to grow the economy, the measures announced today will give both UK aviation and the UK SAF industry the certainty they need to keep creating skilled British jobs while giving passengers the freedom to continue travelling by air in a way that’s fit for the future."

SAF produces up to 70% less carbon emissions than the traditional fossil fuels used in most commercial flights. It is made from waste materials or by-products – like household waste, industrial gases or used cooking oil.

Green credentials on show....IAG Cargo transitions 160-truck fleet at London Heathrow to run on hydrotreated vegetable oil

IAG Cargo is putting green credentials on show by transitioning from Diesel to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil for its 160-strong ground vehicle fleet at London Heathrow.  HVO is a drop-in replacement for White Diesel, made from plant waste and fully renewable materials, meaning that it has a significant impact on net carbon emissions.

For IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group says the transition to HVO will reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90% and significantly reduces nitrogen oxide (NOx) and particulate matter (PM). These reductions will reduce IAG Cargo’s overall Scope 1 emissions by approximately 50%, contributing to the company’s sustainability targets.

David Rose, Director of London Operations at IAG Cargo said: “Transitioning our fleet of ground vehicles from diesel to HVO showcases our commitment to sustainable operations. This move to HVO for our large fleet at London Heathrow is just one of the actions we are taking to reach our goal of net-zero by 2050 and will pave the way for a more sustainable future at IAG Cargo.” 

In addition to transitioning to HVO, IAG Cargo is looking for further ways to reduce the carbon impact of its global fleet. This includes measures such as additional electric vehicles (EVs), and a concerted effort to streamline the total vehicles in operation, with its fleet at its Dublin hub already powered by electric or HVO vehicles. 

The fleet consists of a range of vehicles from small vans to large tugs which can tow trailers holding several tonnes of cargo. The transition to HVO was completed in March 2024. Since then, the benefits have been continuously measured, which will continue into the coming months.

.

  

IAG Cargo restarts services between London and Abu Dhabi as part of its 2024 summer schedule

IAG Cargo kicks off the start of its summer schedule which will see an increase in services between its core hubs in London, Madrid, Barcelona and Dublin to key destinations across the world.

The cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG) advises that as part of the new schedule, services between London Heathrow (LHR) and Abu Dhabi (AUH) will return on the 20th of April following a four-year hiatus. This route will benefit from the use of a Boeing 787-9 widebody aircraft and forms part of a 19% increase in weekly rotations to Africa and the Middle East. 

IAG Cargo restarts services between London and Abu Dhabi for the first time in four years

 

IAG Cargo increases services to the Middle East and Latin America as part of the new summer schedule

Key transatlantic routes will also see a boost in capacity, with a 9% increase in services to Latin America and the Caribbean. This includes an additional three services per week to Buenos Aires (EZE) and up to four services per week to Sao Paulo (GRU) out of Madrid. Furthermore, there will be a doubling of weekly services between London Heathrow and San Diego (SAN), and an extra seven flights per week to Chicago (ORD). IAG Cargo has also launched a new service between Barcelona and Miami (MIA). 

Camilo Garcia Cervera, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at IAG Cargo, said: “The new summer schedule will offer enhanced capacity and greater flexibility for our customers. We are particularly pleased to expand our offering in Africa and the Middle East, including the resumption of operations in Abu Dhabi after a four-year absence from our schedule. Abu Dhabi International Airport is emerging as an increasingly important regional logistics hub with state-of-the-art facilities and we are excited to contribute towards its further growth.” 

Out of London, IAG Cargo offers capacity to six continents with over 600 weekly wide-body services. Additionally, Dublin serves as a gateway to North America, boasting over 80 weekly wide-body rotations. The business now offers over 240 weekly wide-body services connecting Madrid and Barcelona with destinations across North America, Latin America and the Caribbean.

Your travel planning isn’t complete without learning the language—or at least some essential phrases. Fully immerse yourself in the language, or use Phrasebook to learn travel essentials—the choice is yours!

IAG Cargo looks to double its IT and digital team

IAG Cargo will expand its IT and digital team with more than 60 roles

The team will focus on enhancing systems and improving customer access to IAG Cargo’s extensive global network

 

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), is growing its IT and digital team with more than 60 roles, more than doubling the size of its global team. People can find out more information on available roles at www.iagcargo.com/en/careers, where applications are now open.

This expansion is part of IAG Cargo’s commitment to be an agile, innovative and customer-centric business, increasing efficiency and embracing new technologies that will enable the company to adapt in an ever-changing landscape. 

IAG Cargo already utilises various digital technologies and tools to streamline operations. For example, its new cargo handling facility at London Heathrow saw bespoke IT system upgrades and integrations that optimise how freight is moved and allocated within the facility, this state-of-the-art technology helps make IAG Cargo smarter and faster, enabling the company to provide the best customer service. 

IAG Cargo launches new service between Barcelona and Miami

IAG Cargo announces a new service between Barcelona and Miami with flights operating up to three times a week from 31st March

Miami is IAG Cargo’s fifth connection between Barcelona and the U.S. 

IAG Cargo also restarts services between Barcelona and San Francisco from 31st March

 

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), has announced a new service between Barcelona and Miami. The route will run three times a week to Miami International Airport from 31st March 2024, increasing to four services from June to September. 

Barcelona is one of IAG Cargo’s four hubs, alongside London Heathrow, Madrid, and Dublin, and is home to two of the IAG Group’s airlines, LEVEL and Vueling. Miami will mark IAG Cargo’s fifth direct connection to the United States from Barcelona, which already encompasses Boston, Los Angeles, New York’s JFK and San Francisco. This new route adds to almost 200 weekly connections between Spain and the United States. Barcelona is well positioned to connect the United States and the rest of Europe, with an extensive trucking network into nearby countries. 

Miami is the world’s largest gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean and offers two-way cargo traffic, linking the Americas with Europe. It is renowned as a hub for the distribution of perishable products, hi-tech commodities, telecommunications equipment, textiles, pharmaceuticals and industrial machinery. The introduction of this service is being made possible by adding a sixth aircraft to LEVEL’s fleet. 

Camilo Garcia Cervera, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at IAG Cargo said: “The transatlantic corridor is an important part of our network and supports so many of our customers. Miami is a thriving logistics hub, strategic for air freight. With our already well-established network connecting major cities in the United States with Europe, this new route will enhance our connectivity even more.” 

IAG Cargo also restarts services between Barcelona and San Francisco from 31st March, with four weekly frequencies. In 2023 IAG Cargo had a commercial revenue of €1,156 million. It has a combined workforce of more than 2,250 people. Its parent company, International Airlines Group, is one of the world's largest airline groups with 582 aircraft at 31st December 2023.

 

Your travel planning isn’t complete without learning the language—or at least some essential phrases. Fully immerse yourself in the language, or use Phrasebook to learn travel essentials—the choice is yours!

Reimagining Loyalty to Forge Deeper Connections in a World of Choice Overload

Loyalty strategies are undergoing a period of transformation in today’s rapidly evolving marketplace as brands vie for the attention of consumers amid an ever-increasing number of loyalty programmes. 

Loyalty market projected to quadruple in growth by 2030, as programmes in travel and retail sectors show high levels of ancillary income and maintaining of customer loyalty.

IAG Loyalty report ‘Reimagining Loyalty to Engage Today’s Consumers’ looks at how brands can build emotional connections, simplify reward experience and extend value across customer journey.

Expert insights from senior figures at Sainsbury’s, Finnair and IHG One Rewards confirm a “golden age of loyalty”.

With a shift away from programmes that solely focus on consumers earning points through purchase, to ones that integrate into the life and routine of consumer spending, the global loyalty management market is set to grow from $6.47 billion in 2023 to $28.65 billion by 2030. 

IAG Loyalty’s ‘Reimagining Loyalty to Engage Today’s Consumers’ looks at how brands can win this war for attention and provide a loyalty programme experience that harnesses future-proofing techniques and strategies to not just attract customers, but create a deeper, more meaningful connection with them. 

IAG Cargo named as one of UK’s Top Employers

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), has been recognised as a Top Employer in the UK. Reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to the development and wellbeing of its people, through a progressive, ‘people-first’ approach.

Top Employers Institute has named IAG Cargo as a Top Employer for 2024

 

The Top Employer Institute is the global authority on recognising excellence in people practices.

 

The Top Employers Institute programme certified IAG Cargo based on its excellent HR policies and people practices

The Top Employers Institute conducts a rigorous process exploring a company’s policies and practices in regard to 20 topics including People Strategy, Work Environment, Talent Acquisition, Learning, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and Wellbeing among others. 

IAG Cargo’s commitment to its people and robust programmes enabled it to be selected among other significant organisations. One initiative is a new learning and development series the business introduced, “Leading the Way”, that is designed to energise all employees across the business on IAG Cargo’s vision, mission, values and customer essentials; over 500 employees from 13 countries attended the programme in person in 2023. The business also introduced initiatives such as ‘Power hours’, inviting employees from various departments to share knowledge bites, contributing to the upskilling of their colleagues across the business. 

In the last year, IAG Cargo has devoted resources to learning and development, including opening a new learning hub at its London HQ, introducing a global digital training platform, alongside a programme called CoLAB designed to hear and capture the ideas of employees in an open forum, creating a sense of belonging within the business. 

Caroline Andrews, Chief People Officer, IAG Cargo, said: “We are incredibly proud to be named as a Top Employer 2024 as a business dedicated to supporting our employees and fostering a purpose-driven business. A company’s culture greatly influences its employees’ work experiences and is a crucial component of empowering employees to be inspired and bring their curious minds and determined attitudes to work. 

As a global business that operates 24/7 throughout the year, we could not be successful without a remarkable group of employees.” 

In addition to the programmes and learning initiatives implemented at IAG Cargo, the business introduced a complimentary 24-hour gym at its London Heathrow campus, established a mental health first aider programme and opened a brand-new canteen that provides delicious and nutritious meals –working to create an office environment that is supportive and motivating.

IAG Cargo to open applications for 2024 graduate scheme at London Heathrow

IAG Cargo is taking applications for its 2024 Graduate Scheme

The programme has been running for 11 years and specially selects the top 1.1% of applicants to launch their careers in global logistics

 

Successful candidates will gain experience across a range of head office functions and have great opportunities for fast progression within the business.

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), is looking for eleven budding logistics professionals to join its two-year graduate programme commencing in September 2024 based at London Heathrow. Having first launched in 2012, the programme has produced numerous senior business leaders and provides valuable experience across different areas of the business from operations, revenue management, human resources to sales.

IAG Cargo supports many industries to transport goods across the globe, helping to keep the world’s economy turning. By utilising the belly-holds of passenger flights across the Group’s five airlines - British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, Vueling and LEVEL – IAG Cargo moves everything you can think of whether it’s to keep the automobile production line on schedule, stock supermarket shelves, or to deliver life-saving medicines. 

New intakes will benefit from IAG Cargo’s brand-new learning hub to ensure a comprehensive induction into the business. Graduates from the 2023 cohort also had the opportunity to travel to IAG Cargo’s hubs in Madrid and Dublin to provide an insight into the business’ global operations.

Caroline Andrew, Chief People Officer at IAG Cargo said: “Our graduate programme is a key initiative for the business in supporting and developing early-career talent. Working within high-performing teams across the organisation, our graduates are provided with nurturing support in a collaborative setting, fostering their true potential and paving the way for their journey as future leaders.

"Alongside our enticing accelerated development opportunities such as our Leadership Programme Leading the Way, recently revamped fitness facilities, and travel opportunities, we are establishing an environment conducive for everyone to excel in their careers. We’re looking forward to welcoming the upcoming wave of talented individuals and bringing their unique perspectives, and I send my best wishes to all applicants.”

Jack Mulholland Kinsella, Logistics Graduate at IAG Cargo commented: “Participating in this graduate programme has been an enriching experience. From the onset, I've assumed significant responsibilities, collaborating with professionals from diverse sectors and drawing inspiration from leaders in the business. Each day presents unique problem-solving opportunities which provides an engaging work environment that continuously challenges and motivates me.”        

The programme is based at IAG Cargo’s head office at London Heathrow and offers a competitive salary, in addition to several employee benefits, flexible work arrangements, including discounted flights.

Applications close at the end of January and applicants will hear whether they have been successful in April.

/

Find out more about the IAG Cargo Graduate Programme and how to apply here: https://www.iagcargo.com/en/careers/

Sabre and IAG expand partnership with multi-year distribution agreement including NDC content

Sabre Corporation, a leading software and technology provider to the global travel industry, has entered into a multi-year distribution agreement with International Airlines Group (IAG) that will expand their existing partnership and further promote modern travel retailing practices.

The agreement will allow Sabre-connected travel buyers and agencies to sell traditional EDIFACT content as well as having competitive access to NDC offers from British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus and Vueling – including Additional Price Points and ancillaries – through the Sabre travel marketplace globally. This enhanced content will provide travel agencies with a wider range of options to compare and shop for, while travelers will benefit from an improved experience with more choice and transparency. Sabre and IAG's airlines are working closely together and will communicate as NDC content is rolled out to Sabre-connected travel agencies on a carrier-by-carrier basis.

The agreement between Sabre and IAG underscores the industry's shift towards modern travel retailing, where airlines can differentiate their offerings and provide more personalized experiences to travelers. Both Sabre and IAG are committed to advancing the NDC standard as a key component in the industry's evolution towards modern airline retailing enabled by offers and orders.

IAG Cargo hosts roundtable in India to discuss growth in the region

The cargo division of International Airlines Group  - IAG Cargo, hosted a roundtable at the JW Marriott Hotel in New Delhi to discuss key air cargo trends and business updates. Speakers included David Shepherd, Chief Executive Officer at IAG Cargo, Kapil Madhok, Regional Manager, Air Services, India Sub-Continent Region at Expeditors, Camilo Garcia Cervera, Chief Sales and Marketing Office at IAG Cargo, and Yashpal Sharma, President of Air Cargo Forum India (ACFI), moderated by Ankush Chawla, South Asia Commercial Manager for IAG Cargo. 

IAG Cargo has 56 flights per week from India across 5 routes and has seen a 31% increase in tonnage versus last year – with notable growth in Constant Climate, Fresh and Courier

As the world adapts to the new normal post-pandemic, India has emerged as a global powerhouse for the production and exportation of key goods such as pharmaceuticals, high-tech e-commerce such as mobile phones, and fresh produce. 

This growth is reflected in data from IAG Cargo: operating 56 flights per week from India across 5 routes, the company has seen a 31% increase in tonnage versus last year – with a notable increase in Constant Climate, Fresh and Courier services. 

David Shepherd, Chief Executive Officer, of IAG Cargo said: “This is my first trip to India since re-joining the business and I am delighted to be back. India is an exceptionally important part of our global network. Every day we connect customers through five gateways in India to the UK and onto our expansive network. Next week, we will increase our capacity going into – and out of – Delhi through up-gauging services from the current 787s with A350s. With incredibly strong pharmaceutical, high-tech and fresh produce industries, we are always looking for ways to support this growth.”

IAG Cargo announces new 2023-2024 winter schedule

IAG Cargo increases frequency on routes including to Miami, Dubai and Cape Town from London Gatwick and London Heathrow

IAG Cargo launches new route to Ghana, and restarts Costa Rica from London Gatwick

IAG Cargo customers to benefit from new schedule at the end of October through to March 2024

IAG cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), is announcing increased services as part of the new winter schedule connecting its hubs in London, Madrid and Dublin to key destinations across the world. Customers will benefit from this additional capacity, starting at the end of October through March 2024. 

There will be increased capacity on several key routes. These routes include London to Cape Town (CPT), Accra (ACC), Doha (DOH), and Miami (MIA), offering 14 flights a week to both Miami and Doha, and 17 flights a week to Cape Town. Out of Madrid, IAG Cargo will offer additional capacity on routes to Bogota, Colombia (BOG), Santiago, Chile (SCL), Quito, Ecuador (UIO) and Santa Domingo, Dominican Republic (SDQ). 

The winter schedule includes restarting services between London Gatwick to Cape Town and Costa Rica utilising Boeing 777-200s. An extra daily service to Doha (DOH) has been introduced from London Heathrow, while services to Miami have resumed from Dublin. Capacity will also be available between Rio De Janeiro, Brazil (GIG) and Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE). 

JR Technologies and IAG Loyalty partner to provide a multi-product retailing solution to the airline industry

The industry-first B2C solution incorporates modern airline retailing concepts, creating a better transaction experience and boosting revenue

JR Technologies, a pioneer in airline retailing, has partnered with IAG Loyalty (IAGL), a leader in loyalty who own and manage Avios, the global loyalty currency of the Aer Lingus AerClub, the British Airways Executive Club and other international airlines, to offer a comprehensive, simplified loyalty booking solution, including one of the airline industry's first multi-product shopping carts with loyalty currency + cash settlement capability.

IAGL uses JR Technologies' Aerostream platform, specifically its Order Management solution, to create a streamlined multi-product shopping flow, resulting in a seamless and fast checkout experience for the traveller.

The technology enables travellers and members to earn and redeem Avios on each product in their cart, including flights, hotels, and ancillary products, all within the same transaction. Additionally, travellers and members have the option to pay for individual products with cash, the Avios currency or a combination of both. IAGL also uses the Aerostream Offer Management platform for its hotel and car rental products.

Aerostream, JR Technologies' latest travel technology solution, is a highly configurable retailing platform developed for airlines and the travel industry. Built on NDC and ONE Order concepts, Aerostream's Offer and Order Management solutions provide the foundation for an effortless travel booking and post-booking experience incorporating e-commerce best practices that have upgraded online retailing in other industries.

IAG Cargo launches Constant Climate in Cincinnati

IAG Cargo has expanded its Constant Climate global network that serves the pharmaceutical, bioscience and healthcare industry adding Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport as an approved station.

IAG Cargo has over 100 approved stations across six continents 

Cincinnati’s strategic location serves as an ideal station, facilitating freight forwarders throughout the United States in transporting an array of healthcare items from vaccines to clinical trial medicines.

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), has announced this week Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky International Airport as its latest station in the United States to be approved to transport time and temperature-sensitive healthcare products. Bringing the total number of approved Constant Climate stations in the United States to 21. 

This newly established station will facilitate the movement of pharmaceuticals that require precise time and temperature management between Cincinnati and London Heathrow. It will leverage IAG Cargo’s extensive network which links six continents to transport critical cargo such as vaccines, medicinal drugs and clinical trial medication around the world. This service will be of special interest to pharmaceutical customers located in Ireland and India whose life-saving medicines frequently transit through London Heathrow to the United States.

Jordan Kohlbeck, Head of Pharmaceutical at IAG Cargo, added: “We are very excited about the opening of a new Constant Climate station at Cincinnati airport. The opening of Cincinnati will allow us to support more customers globally and provide another route by which they can utilise our cold chain solution to transport their key pharmaceuticals. We look forward to working with our partners and customers to increase our pharmaceutical offerings with this new addition.” 

IAG Cargo’s Constant Climate product is a state-of-the-art cold chain solution that caters specifically to the transportation of pharmaceuticals, such as vaccines, biotech products, diagnostics samples, or any other temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical material. During the first half of 2023, Constant Climate, IAG Cargo’s cold chain product for transporting pharmaceutical products, experienced a 45 per cent increase in the volume of pharmaceuticals transported across its network compared to the previous year. 

IAG Cargo’s new 10,000m2 facility New Premia at London Heathrow, launched in May 2023, features a cutting-edge Constant Climate Quality Centre (CCQC) for pharmaceuticals, with 27 dedicated cool cells and temperature facilities available from +2°C to +8°C (COL), +15°C to +25°C (CRT) and -20°C (FRO) ensuring sensitive shipments are held in a temperature-controlled environment at all times.

IAG Cargo appoints new Sustainability Manager

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), has added to its transformation team, appointing Saleem Saeed as its new Sustainability Manager that will see IAG Cargo advance its sustainability journey.

Saleem steps into the role having previously worked within the construction sector and will use his experience and expertise to lead the sustainability strategy across the business. Saleem looks to enhance the current ‘Fit for Future’ strategy that will further infuse sustainability into IAG Cargo's core whilst encouraging partners and customers to join the business on this journey. 

“What truly energises me about joining IAG Cargo is the prospect of contributing to a global company in a dynamic setting," said Saleem. "Environmental and social responsibility are really important, ensuring everybody’s needs are addressed without compromising future generations’ requirements. This role will allow me to actively steer IAG Cargo's sustainability strategy  and empower our people to create a better future. I’m looking forward to building on the fantastic initiatives already in place." 

Saleem will drive forward new efficient ways of working to ensure IAG Cargo minimizes its carbon footprint across the organization – for example, the business has recently been trialling an electric terminal tractor and is actively exploring an expanded electric fleet. The vision is clear: for IAG Cargo to lead the charge in sustainable aviation cargo operations. 

Jenny Critchley, Chief Transformation Officer at IAG Cargo, commented: “Saleem’s appointment as our Sustainability Manager reinforces our dedication to pioneering eco-conscious practices within the air cargo sector. Saleem has a passion for sustainability, so I have no doubt that he will make this role his own, leading IAG Cargo into a new era of responsible operations. His passion for innovation and transformative change aligns seamlessly with our vision to be ‘Fit for Future’.”

Finnair to move its loyalty programme to Avios in 2024.

The former legacy airline of Finland,  the Helsinki-based Finnair is joining forces with IAG Loyalty to fully renew and update its Finnair Plus loyalty programme by introducing Avios as its new loyalty currency in early 2024. 

Partnering with IAG Loyalty to adopt Avios will bring new opportunities for existing and new Finnair Plus members to collect and use the programme’s new loyalty currency.  The airline has also announced that its programme will also move to a new spend-based platform as it seeks to outsource almost all functions of administration.  

The partnership is the next step in the expansion of the Avios currency worldwide, ensuring the 40 million+ members can enjoy Avios on even more routes and on even more rewarding experiences. 

It follows last year’s ground-breaking partnership between IAG Loyalty and Qatar Airways that saw the airline join British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus and Vueling as adopters of Avios. 

IAG Loyalty CEO, Adam Daniels, said: “Finnair’s adoption of Avios is recognition of the global significance of our currency, the incredible value and the wide range of benefits it has for members. We are delighted to be able to play a central role in a new era for Finnair’s loyalty programme, as we continue to grow the Avios currency globally and extend our leadership in loyalty.” 

Finnair says that as an extra incentive to join Finnair Plus its members will now also receive complimentary internet access for messaging on its short-haul European flights operated on the carrier's Airbus aircraft - regardless of their tier status.  

The Finnair Plus programme was launched in 1992 and the airline says has over four million members, although it is unknown how many are active travellers or the exact liability amount of their accounts.  

Finnair SVP Customer Engagement, Rogier Van Enk said: “2024 marks the start of an exciting era for our loyalty program, with new benefits and improved options for our members to use Avios - both within Finnair and within IAG Loyalty’s partner network. We look forward to a great and long-lasting partnership for many years to come.” 

As part of the changes, Finnair will also increase the number of award seats available on its flights, in many cases, double as the airline will guarantee at least 4 award seats on Finnair flights within Europe and 8 on Finnair long-haul flights. 

Finnair Plus award points will be converted to Avios with a 3:2 ratio, and the purchasing power of the current points remains unchanged – Avios prices are also updated with the same 3:2 ratio.  

The new loyalty currency, Avios, will be collected, and members will be able to move from one tier to another based on the money spent on Finnair’s flights and travel extras. Tier limits will be revised to reflect the switch to Avios and the new spend-based earn of tier points. Collecting tier points and loyalty currency on partner-marketed or operated flights will continue to be based on the travel class, booking class, and distance flown. The new programme will work on miles rather than kilometres, flown.

Finnair Plus members will be able to earn Avios when they shop online with thousands of leading brands via shopping.ba.com and with IAG Loyalty’s growing list of partners around the world that range from BP, Nectar, and Uber in the UK, Areas airport retail, and Cabify in Spain and Bilt in the US.  

IAG Loyalty currently partners with over 125 leading global brands such as American Express, Nectar, Uber and Marriott.

IAG Cargo reports half year revenues of €603million, up 8.5% on the same time in 2019

IAG Cargo recently unveiled its semi-automated Premium handling facility, with a cutting-edge temperature-controlled storage facility.

The implementation of targeted investments across the business has led to enhanced performance in comparison to pre-pandemic. 

The cargo division of International Airlines Group - IAG Cargo has reported its financial results for H1 2023 recently, which showed commercial revenues of €603 million for the period from January 1 to June 30 2023. That's up some 8.5% on the same period before the pandemic in 2019, although a decrease of 28.5% on last year's amount. 

IAG Cargo opened  New Premia, its new flagship handling facility at its London hub, in the first part of the year. The investment in excess of €100m is part of a revamp to its cargo facilities at London's Heathrow Airport. The state-of-the-art 10,000m2 semi-automated warehouse more than doubles IAG Cargo's handling capacity for premium shipments.  The facility features a Constant Climate Quality Centre (CCQC) specialising in pharmaceutical, life-science, and biotech product shipping. IAG Cargo continues to invest in its pharmaceutical product reinforcing its commitment to supporting a key industry.

David Shepherd, Chief Executive Officer of IAG Cargo, said: “While the operating environment has changed significantly in recent months, and the air cargo industry normalises following the pandemic, our primary efforts in the first half of the year have been dedicated to implementing essential transformation. This has included investing in our facilities, operations, and senior leadership team to ensure that we are in a strong position to adapt to the changing market. As well as opening our New Premia operation at Heathrow, we have focused on improving operational processes to make better use of our capacity.” 

IAG Cargo continued to reintroduce network coverage resuming services between London Beijing and Shanghai as well as increasing frequency to Hong Kong and Japan. H1 2023 saw substantial growth across North America, approaching pre-pandemic levels as IAG Cargo launched a new route between London and Cincinnati increasing its North American network to 28 destinations. 

David Shepherd continues: “We’ve been focused on how we can increase efficiency as a business whilst better serving both our customers and colleagues. We are already benefitting from the actions we are taking, all with the goal of cultivating a great place to work and building long-term customer loyalty. As a business we remain well positioned to serve the industry that keeps the world’s economy moving.”

International Airlines Group announces significant investment into Nova Pangaea Technologies in global race to secure Sustainable Aviation Fuel

 International Airlines Group invests in Nova Pangaea Technologies in global race to secure Sustainable Aviation Fuel

 

 

International Airlines Group (IAG), the parent company of Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, Vueling and LEVEL —has announced an investment into Nova Pangaea Technologies (NPT), an innovative UK-based cleantech company whose technology is a crucial pathway to the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

NPT's innovative technology converts agricultural waste and wood residue feedstocks into second-generation bioethanol, which can then be processed into SAF.

Investment into Nova Pangaea Technologies (NPT) announced by International Airlines Group (IAG) is in addition to a $865 million commitment to SAF

NPT, a UK-based cleantech company developing advanced biofuels from non-food agricultural waste and wood residues, now eyes expansion in Europe

Investment will also support delivery of the first commercial plant of its kind in the UK as global race to secure SAF intensifies

IAG's investment will progress the development of 'NOVAONE', NPT's first waste-to-fuel commercial-scale production facility, and the UK's first of its kind. The project is in addition to IAG's investment programme in SAF, which at the end of 2022 amounted to $865 million in firm commitments on SAF purchases and investments.

A recent report from cCarbon calculates that Europe will produce a third of the world's SAF by 2030, with the SAF global market value reaching $29.7 billion, up from $1.1 billion last year. NPT is eyeing expansion in Europe as the region will play an important role in delivering global supplies of SAF.

Luis Gallego, CEO, IAG said:  "Sustainable Aviation Fuel is the only realistic option for long haul airlines to decarbonise, which is why investment in this area is so critical.

At IAG, we have set a goal to use 10% SAF by 2030.  And we are not just buying SAF, we are willing to invest in developing the industry, but we need governments in the UK and Europe to act now to encourage further investment."

IAG Cargo partners with Kuehne+Nagel to advance Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

 

Kuehne+Nagel is reducing its Scope 3* carbon footprint by part-funding IAG's purchase of six million litres of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

The SAF is scheduled to be delivered during 2023 as part of IAG Cargo and Kuehne+Nagel’s commitments to decarbonising air cargo

The SAF will be produced from used cooking oil and food waste, and reduces CO2 emissions by at least 80 per cent compared to conventional jet fuel

 

IAG Cargo, the cargo division of International Airlines Group (IAG), will reduce cargo customers’ supply chain Scope 3* emissions by partnering with Kuehne+Nagel, who will part-fund IAG's purchase of six million litres of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in 2023. The SAF, which will be certified by ISCC (International Sustainability & Carbon Certification) and produced from used cooking oil and food waste, will have at least 80% lower lifecycle emissions than conventional jet fuel and will reduce over 15,000 tonnes of CO2 on a lifecycle basis. 

IAG was the first European airline group to make a commitment that 10 per cent of its fuel needs would be fulfilled by SAF by 2030, and this purchase supports IAG’s acceleration towards this goal. IAG has committed $865m in future SAF investments and purchases to date, with agreements in place with a number of suppliers in the UK, US and Spain. 

David Shepherd, Chief Executive Officer at IAG Cargo said: “We are delighted to be partnering with Kuehne+Nagel once again to address Scope 3 CO2 emissions for their supply chain. We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and contributing to the wider sustainability goals of the aviation industry. This purchase is a key step in achieving these objectives and is a great example of how IAG can help its customers decarbonise.” 

IAG Cargo first partnered with Kuehne+Nagel in 2021 to power a charter chain of 16 flights from Stuttgart to Atlanta, and this latest deal builds on the long-standing partnership between Kuehne+Nagel and IAG Cargo.

Yngve Ruud, Member of the Management Board of Kuehne+Nagel, responsible for Air Logistics, commented: “To achieve genuine decarbonisation in our industry, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is currently the most effective solution, and we are dedicated to increasing its supply as part of our ambitious climate targets. Working closely with our suppliers and promoting the deployment of these fuels with reliable partners such as IAG Cargo is crucial to accomplishing our goals and enabling our like-minded customers to transport their products in a more sustainable manner.”