American Airlines Cargo set for perishables boost through Athens flights

American Airlines Cargo is looking to benefit from perishables demand from Greece following the re-introduction of flights from Athens.

American Airlines will launch two new seasonal flights to the Greek capital city starting on June 7; a Boeing 787-8 flight from Athens international Airport (ATH) to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), as well as a Boeing 777-200 service from ATH to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).

Perishables form a key part of the traffic from Greece to the US with fish, figs, cheese and olives being carried on the first flights.

“Greece also provides an entry point to the American network for customers in neighboring countries, and the new services are already supporting freight forwarders from Turkey shipping textiles to the US,” the airline said.

The carrier’s trucking network will connect the ATH flights with neighboring countries. The airline previously served the city two years ago, but with smaller equipment.

American’s Cargo GSA in Greece is its long-standing partner Goldair.

“There are long-standing freight customers in Greece who have been eager to see the recommencing of services,” said Tim Isik, managing director cargo sales – Europe, Africa, Middle East and Asia for American Airlines Cargo. “We are delighted to be able to meet their needs with morning and afternoon flights, which will provide great connectivity for onward freight.”

During the month of June, American plans to operate more than 5,700 widebody flights around the world.