AF KLM Cargo returns to Hong Kong as carriers add Asia freighter capacity
23 / 09 / 2024
Source: Theodorie/ Shutterstock.com
Air France KLM Martinair Cargo (AFKLMP) last week launched a new freighter flight to Hong Kong after an absence of nine years as a number of carriers have moved capacity to the Asia Pacific market to capitalise on strong cargo demand.
The flight was operated by Martinair on behalf of KLM between Schiphol and Hong Kong utilising a 110 tonne capacity Boeing 747-400 freighter.
The service will initially operate three times per week before increasing to four weekly flights at the start of the winter season on October 27.
“This arrival marks our return to HKG for freighter operation after nine years, representing a significant milestone in our operations,” the company said in a LinkedIn post.
“The occasion was commemorated with a ceremony attended by a diverse delegation, including customers, airport authorities, ground handling agent representatives, and colleagues, who all gathered to celebrate this momentous event.”
AFKLMP announced its return to Hong Kong in July, with the company noting a steadily growing e-commerce market out of east Asia.
As a result of the new Hong Kong flights, some of its freighter services to Latin America will be suspended.
The airline is not the only carrier to be ramping up capacity to the Asia market with Qatar Cargo, Lufthansa Cargo and CMA CGM all adding capacity.
Statistics from data provider and consultant Rotate show that in August freighter capacity from Asia to North America was up 12% year on year. From Asia to Europe freighter capacity is up 5% on last year and to the Middle East there is a 28% increase.
In contrast, freighter capacity on the transatlantic has been trending downwards. From South America to Europe there is a 16% year on year decrease and in the opposite direction a 9% fall.
From North America to Europe freighter capacity is down 7% year on year and from Europe to North America there has been a 14% fall.
Source: Rotate
When Qatar Cargo announced plans to add capacity in Asia, it said would reduce its capacity to South America.
Qatar Cargo told Air Cargo News it would suspend its 777 freighter services to Santiago and Viracopos starting in September.
The two stations will continue to be supported through its partnerships and alliances with other carriers, it said.
Freighter flights to Bogotá, Quito, and Guarulhos will continue as planned.
Meanwhile, freighter frequencies to India, China, Vietnam and Europe will be increased.
Cargolux has also reportedly added capacity to the Asia region, although it declined to comment when approached by Air Cargo News.
And earlier this month Lufthansa Cargo said it would launch its first direct service from Asia to the US as market demand from the region continues to surge.
Air France KLM Martinair pulls cargo capacity from Latam to focus on Asia
