Air Canada sets booking policy for cargo-only passenger aircraft

Air Canada has outlined the cargo-booking policy for its freight-only passenger aircraft flights to Europe, with other flights planned for Latin America, South America and domestic services to remote communities.

A spokesperson for the North American carrier said: “The first cargo-only flights departed from Toronto this past week for Frankfurt, London and Amsterdam, which are all both important business centres and connection points for onward cargo shipments.

“The flights were operated using Boeing 787 aircraft capable of carrying 35 tonnes of cargo. Shippers and freight forwarders using the service are charged a flat rate for both directions, and Air Canada Cargo is also introducing a fractional program, so shippers who do not require a whole aircraft can book space.

“The arrangements with the shippers and freight forwarders contain clear provisions to ensure that these essential goods are being sold at fair market rates and to authorized suppliers.”

The airline said that aircraft on these flights carry no passengers but move time-sensitive shipments, including medical supplies to combat Covid-19, and goods to support the global economy. 

Tim Strauss, vice president of cargo, at Air Canada, said: “Air Canada Cargo has long served as a vital link in global supply chains and with the disruption arising from the Covid-19 pandemic our capabilities are more important than ever.

“Although we have announced very significant temporary capacity reductions and our passenger flights are largely dedicated to bringing Canadians home, Air Canada’s aircraft and our expertise in handling cargo are valuable assets that we can use to move medical supplies and other essential goods to keep the world economy going. “

Strauss continued: “We have already begun flights to Europe, and we are planning to expand this program to Latin America and South America, as well as within Canada, including remote communities using Air Canada Express aircraft. In addition to providing a much-needed service, these cargo-only flights are also supporting jobs at Air Canada.”

Share this story

Related Topics

Latest americas news

FedEx profits improve as cost cutting takes effect

FedEx saw its profits improve in the third quarter of its fiscal year despite revenues coming under pressure due to…

Read More

Share this story

Big three US airlines again delay resumption of further China flights

The three largest US airlines are pushing back until at least late October the resumption of many flights to China…

Read More

Share this story

FarCargo gets ready to launch first transatlantic air cargo route

Faroe Islands-based carrier FarCargo will launch its first transatlantic air cargo route for salmon shipments on March 5. The planned…

Read More

Share this story

Air Cargo News

Air Cargo News
Established in 1983, Air Cargo News is the leading source of news, information, interviews, analyses and reports to the global airfreight industry. Our leading portfolio includes print, digital and events that give businesses in the airfreight industry the ability to connect with decision-makers in this sector.