Elbe Flugzeugwerke GmbH (EFW), center of excellence for Airbus Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) conversions has commenced operation at its new third-party freighter conversion site in Istanbul, Turkey, after its first A330P2F was inducted as scheduled in October.
This new Istanbul site is set up in collaboration with Turkish Technic, a leading MRO company certified around the world as Part 145 and Part 21 J&G organization. With the Istanbul site, EFW has a total of nine modifications sites carrying out its conversion programs across the globe.
“We are glad to get Turkish Technic on board, which has deep experience in maintaining Airbus aircraft,” says Jordi Boto, CEO of EFW. “By working with partners which have strong structural skills and operational excellence, we will ensure meeting our customer commitments in a robust manner.”
EFW’s A330P2F program is developed in collaboration with ST Engineering and Airbus, with EFW holding the Supplemental Type Certificate and leading in the overall program as well as marketing & sales efforts. To meet the strong demand for Airbus freighter conversions, ST Engineering and EFW have set up conversion sites in Asia, the U.S. and Europe to ramp up conversion capacity for all their Airbus P2F programs comprising the A330P2F, A321P2F and A320P2F.
The A330P2F program comes with two variants – the A330-200P2F and A330-300P2F – which are both equipped with advanced technology that offers airlines additional operational and economic benefits. The A330-200P2F can carry a gross payload of up to 61 tons of weight to over 7.700 km, while the larger A330-300P2F can carry a gross payload of up to 63 tons and a containerized volume of up to ~18.581ft3(~526m3).
CSX Corp. (NASDAQ: CSX) is announcing the ratification of a paid sick leave agreement covering approximately 200 employees represented by the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS) on the company’s L&N property.
The ratification follows another recent agreement with the BRS covering nearly 400 employees on the SCL property. Both agreements provide a sick leave package that ensures employees can take necessary time off from work to recover from illness without worrying about their financial stability.
CSX continues to build on a series of successful negotiations with various railroad unions to provide paid sick leave. This includes agreements reached earlier this year with the BMWED, BRC, SMART-TD, IAM, NCFO and IBEW unions, providing paid sick leave for thousands of railroad workers.
CSX President and CEO Joe Hinrichs said, “We greatly value our employees represented by the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen for their contributions to running a safe, reliable railroad. We’re committed to improving the employee experience at CSX, and paid sick leave is one way we’re continuing to create a work environment that prioritizes employee welfare.”
L&N General Chairman Andy Webb said, “We’re glad to see continued progress as more of our hard-working members obtain the paid sick leave benefits that BRS has pursued since the conclusion of national agreements in December 2022.”
The ratification of the L&N agreement reinforces CSX’s position as an employer of choice in the rail industry, as the company continues to collaborate with its union partners on initiatives that ensure CSX team members have the support they need.
Air Partner’s Global Cargo Division, the global full-service logistics provider, delivered humanitarian medical aid to Afghanistan following the powerful earthquakes which struck the country earlier this month.
The country experienced three earthquakes in short succession which has resulted in a death toll that now surpasses over 2,000 lives lost. The latest earthquake, which struck on the 15 October, registered a magnitude of 6.3 and has led to the collapse of thousands of houses and villages.
On 22 October, Air Partner delivered 82 tonnes of emergency relief from Copenhagen to Kabul within the same day.
The humanitarian aid was delivered using a Boeing B747F, an aircraft renowned for its unique capacity to handle heavy cargo loads, making it one of the few aircraft capable of executing such a large undertaking with precision and efficiency.
Air Partner’s experience in emergency global cargo brokering for humanitarian operations guarantees vigilant planning, logistics co-ordination and rapid mobilisation of aircraft and permits to ensure aid is delivered to areas impacted by catastrophic damage quickly and safely.
Pierre Van Der Stichele, VP of Global Charter at Air Partner, commented: “Humanitarian operations are of the upmost importance for our cargo division, epitomising our unwavering commitment to delivering critical aid swiftly and efficiently to those in devastating situations. With Air Partner’s global network of charter services, logistics experts and 24/7 support team, we remain on hand to support those in need.”
Messe München and World Trade Center Miami are pooling their expertise and will organize a joint conference with “carga logistica Americas Summit” for the transport and logistics industry in 2024.
The first edition or carga logistica Americas Summit will take place from October 15 to 16, 2024 in Panama City and will focus on the Latin American market.
The German trade show organizer and the American non-profit organization both have many years of experience in organizing innovative and leading events. Dr. Robert Schönberger, Global Industry Lead at Messe München, says, "With this partnership, transport logistic Americas and Air Cargo Americas will further strengthen their position in the American market." Ivan Barrios, President & CEO of World Trade Center Miami, adds, "With a focus on Latin America in 2024, the event serves one of the fastest growing markets in the world, which also plays a critical role in the global transportation and logistics landscape."
Menzies Agunsa Aviation has announced a significant contract win with South American airline, JetSMART to deliver full ground services at the carrier’s network of 16 airports across Chile.
The new five-year contract will see Menzies Agunsa Aviation deliver passenger, ramp and cabin cleaning services for the ultra low-cost carrier, handling more than 28,000 turns in the first year, with significant annual growth anticipated each year thereafter. The contract, in partnership with Menzies’ joint venture partner in Chile, Agencias Universales SA (AGUNSA), reaffirms the company’s commitment to growth in the Central and South American region, and represents a significant expansion on its operations within Chile.
Supporting JetSMART’s operations across Chile, Menzies Agunsa Aviation will deliver ground services at the airline’s primary base of operations at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL), the country’s busiest international airport. Menzies Agunsa Aviation will also oversee the airline’s secondary hub at Carriel Sur International Airport (CCP), along with Andrés Sabella Gálvez International Airport (ANF), El Loa Airport (CJC) and La Florida Airport (LSC), and the remaining eleven airports in the JetSMART network.
Founded in 2016, JetSMART Airlines is an ultra-low-cost airline with domestic operations in Chile, Argentina and Peru. It operates more than 70 routes throughout South America with services to Colombia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. In July 2023, it marked its 7th anniversary by announcing it had transported more than 20 million passengers in South America. It has ambitious plans for growth, with 100 million passengers and 100 aircraft by 2028.
This is the first contract for Menzies with JetSMART, building on its portfolio of Indigo Group airlines, which currently includes Frontier Airlines, Lynx Air, Volaris and Wizz Air.
Philipp Joeinig, CEO, Menzies Aviation, said: “We are delighted to welcome JetSMART to our portfolio of Latin American customers, and another major airline of the Indigo Partners Group. This latest win represents a significant milestone for Menzies and an important step in our strategic expansion in this vibrant region. We are excited to work with JetSMART in 16 new locations in Chile, providing safe, secure, and high-quality services for the carrier and its passengers, while helping to harness the untapped potential of the region’s aviation industry."
Estuardo Ortiz, CEO, JetSMART, said: “The experience and trajectory of Menzies in ground handling and passenger services, coupled with its technical prestige in different global markets, and the support of a local operator like Agunsa, enable us to generate significant operational cost efficiencies, to continue offering our passengers a safe, reliable, and affordable service; to support our ULCC model and ambitious growth plans”.
Fernando Rodriguez, CEO, Agencias Universales SA, said: “We are very excited about the Menzies Agunsa Aviation and JetSMART partnership, which reflects and reassures our commitment to providing the highest quality ground services in Chile's aviation sector and our commitment to the country connectivity. We appreciate JetSMART´s confidence in our company and look forward to enhancing the passenger experience and supporting their growth.”
Menzies’ growing operations in Chile complements its existing operations in six other countries in Central and South America including Mexico, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala and Panama.
The full list of airports served by Menzies Aviation for JetSMART in Chile includes: Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL), also known as Santiago International Airport
Carriel Sur International Airport (CCP); Andrés Sabella Gálvez International Airport (ANF); El Loa Airport (CJC); La Florida Airport (LSC); Chacalluta International Airport (ARI); Diego Aracena International Airport (IQQ); Desierto de Atacama Airport (CPO); La Araucanía International Airport (ZCO); Pichoy Airport (ZAL); El Tepual International Airport (PMC); Mocopulli Airport (MHC); Balmaceda Airport (BBA); Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport (PNT); Presidente Carlos Ibáñez International Airport (PUQ); Cañal Bajo Carlos Hott Siebert Airport (ZOS).
WestJet Cargo announces the expansion of its cargo services for the Winter schedule, introducing new destinations to its network: Puerto Plata, Bridgetown and Kingston.
WestJet Cargo’s service to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic will be officially re-launched on October 29th, 2023. Cargo services will be offered to and from Puerto Plata, on multiple weekly flights. Each flight will offer a reliable 2-tonne cargo capacity. The rotation for this route is Toronto – Puerto Plata - Toronto. In the Dominican Republic, WestJet Cargo currently provides cargo capacity on its passenger services to Punta Cana from Calgary and Toronto.
Additionally, services to Bridgetown, Barbados, will start on November 8th, 2023. Like Puerto Plata, cargo services will be re-launched since it stopped early 2020. WestJet Cargo will operate 4 weekly flights, offering a cargo capacity of 2 tonnes per flight. The route rotation for Bridgetown will be Toronto – Bridgetown - Toronto.
Lastly, Kingston, Jamaica will also be receiving cargo services, commencing on October 30th, 2023. The carrier will operate 3 weekly flights, each with a 2-tonne cargo capacity. The rotation for this route is Toronto – Kingston - Toronto. In Jamaica, we currently provide cargo capacity on its passenger services to Montego Bay from various Canadian cities.
The commodities transported on all three re-launched routes will mainly consist of perishables and general cargo.
The decision to expand to these destinations was based on the recognized potential of both WestJet’s passenger and cargo businesses and is not dependent on new aircraft.
Unilode Aviation Solutions, the market leader in outsourced unit load device (ULD) management, repair and digital services, is delighted to announce the appointment of Janis Balkens as Chief Operating Officer.
Janis Balkens has over 20 years’ experience in senior leadership, operational and commercial roles in the aviation industry. He has worked extensively with airports, airlines, ground handlers and logistics companies, and is a highly respected and talented member of the aviation community. Mr. Balkens most recently held the position of Regional Chief Executive Officer for New & Emerging Markets at dnata.
Ross Marino, Chief Executive Officer, Unilode, said: “I am delighted that Janis has joined Unilode’s Executive Leadership Team. He is extremely well placed to continue to deliver operational excellence at Unilode, and his operational and commercial expertise with a strong focus on quality and safety will strengthen Unilode’s market leader position in the ULD and galley cart sector. Janis will play a pivotal role in leading Unilode’s operations to new heights and contributing to the continued growth and success of our company. Janis is a highly valued addition to our team, and I am excited to work with him to continue to deliver optimal results for Unilode.”
Janis Balkens, Chief Operating Officer, Unilode, said: “I am thrilled to join Unilode and lead the company’s global operations. Unilode’s dedication to driving operational efficiencies aligns with my passion for delivering the highest level of performance to all our customers. I strongly believe that successful leadership of both local and global teams requires trust, empowerment, and respect, and I look forward to working with the talented Unilode team to build on the company’s successes and continue to elevate our services and partnerships globally. Together, we will provide our customers and partners with mutually beneficial solutions and drive our businesses forward.”
Singapore, known for its strategic location in Southeast Asia, has long been recognized as a pivotal hub for air cargo activities, serving as a natural gateway connecting the East and the West.
This global crossroads is integral to trade routes linking Europe, the Americas, and Asia, making it an indispensable transit point for the efficient movement of goods.
It's in this dynamic air cargo environment that Strike Aviation Group, one of the world's fastest-growing air cargo companies, is making its debut appearance at the upcoming Air Cargo Southeast Asia 2023 exhibition and conference. Julia Knecht Ostwaldt, COO Europe at Strike Aviation, emphasized the significance of this move, stating, "This marks our first foray into this region, where we're eager to explore the potential it holds for us and how it can contribute to expanding our global reach."
Singapore's connectivity to major cities worldwide is a key factor behind the company's interest in the region. With an extensive network of air routes ensuring seamless access to vital global markets, businesses can effectively reach their customers with speed and efficiency, making it an attractive prospect for companies like Strike Aviation.
The highlight of Strike's participation in the Singapore event is its innovative offering - the company currently operates its own virtual airline. This innovative approach could revolutionize shipments from Southeast Asia to Latin America, reducing transit times and costs. Julia Knecht Ostwaldt further emphasized Strike's commitment to innovation and international presence as a driving force for the company.
As a fast, flexible, and reliable Cargo General Sales and Service Agent (GSSA), Strike makes swift decisions and consistently offers niche products. According to Julia, the secret lies in their well-established IT systems, standardized operating procedures, and their affiliation with a strong international team - all of which are strengths that underpin their self-confidence in the air cargo industry.
Strike's team is optimistic about gaining valuable insights on integrating into the new region and building rapport with the local business community. They pride themselves on fostering quick, human interactions with partners, even when dealing with business matters.
Frank Ziesemer, CEO of Strike Aviation, commented on the company's active involvement in various air cargo shows globally. "We are proud to aim for greater heights in Asia and expand our presence," he said. "Our entire European team will be participating in Transport Logistic and Air Cargo Southeast Asia, where they will undoubtedly forge new connections and bolster partnerships in the Asian region."
Julia Knecht Ostwaldt concluded, "We are thrilled to see that our efforts at various air cargo shows are growing our reputation and enhancing brand recognition."
The Air Cargo Southeast Asia 2023 event will take place in Singapore from November 1, 2023, to November 3, 2023, and promises to be a significant platform for industry players to converge and explore opportunities in the air cargo sector.
Jean-Claude Delen former CEO BENELUX and France for DHL Global Forwarding and former President of FIATA has been chosen as the 2023 TIACA Hall of Fame Recipient.
Jean-Claude has been selected based on his long and distinguished career and his tireless energy and leadership in promoting the value of the freight forwarding community and for establishing a new era of collaborative relations between IATA and FIATA and for inspiring countless young people to follow in his inimitable footsteps into the world of logistics.
Jean-Claude joined Air Express International (AEI) in 1965 and following several takeovers he scaled the heights with the DHL leadership. A proud advocate for the forwarding community led Jean-Claude to head CLECAT, the EU-level representative body of freight forwarders. He also played a pivotal role within FIATA, with key position within the FIATA Air Freight Institute and IATA/FIATA Consultative Council. He also joined the FIATA leadership where he acted as Treasurer and ultimately as President.
Jean-Claude is a gentleman of this industry with a passion for life, a lover of fast cars and an amazing purveyor of great stories of the fledging logistics industry where he personally established high value supply chains within Africa.
Still active today, lending his wealth of knowledge and experience to those fortunate to receive his counsel.
“We are excited to induct Jean-Claude Delen into the Hall of Fame. Jean-Claude has distinguished himself as a leader in the industry and has been passionate in his efforts to establish solid relationships that allow for collaboration and partnership with the freight forwarding community and air cargo as well as to encourage the next generation to join our industry. We look forward to formally presenting his award during the Executive Summit in Brussels next month.” Sebastian Scholte, Chair, TIACA Chairman’s Council
Qatar Airways Group confirms after 27 years of remarkable service, Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive - His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker will be stepping down from his current position as Group Chief Executive Officer effective November 5th, 2023, and will be succeeded by Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer as Group Chief Executive for Qatar Airways.
Under H.E Mr. Akbar Al Baker leadership, Qatar Airways has grown to become one of the most recognisable and trusted brands globally, synonymous with customer service quality and the highest of standards. The National Carrier of the State of Qatar achieved an unprecedented seven-time winner of the “World Best Airline” award and its state-of-the-art Hamad International Airport, which is under its management and operation, has also been recognised as the World Best Airport.
The Qatar Airways Group’s contribution to helping deliver the best ever FIFA World Cup 2022 showcased to the world its capability, commitment to excellence and its passion for bringing the world together.
The first edition of transport logistic and air cargo Southeast Asia brings key industry players and decision-makers from around the world to Singapore.
It is poised to become the most influential meeting place for logistics, mobility, IT and supply chain management in Southeast Asia region.
Get the latest information on Messe München's transport logistic cluster as well as an outlook on the new trade fair. We cordially invite you to our press briefing in the Sands Expo Convention Centre in Singapore
Venue: Camellia Conference Room, Business Centre, Level 3. Date: Wednesday, 1 November 2023, 12.30 pm.
Brief overview: Michael Wilton, Managing Director & CEO, MMI Asia; Dr. Robert Schoenberger, Global Industry Lead, transport logistic exhibitions, Messe München GmbH.
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