Cherry on the cake for LATAM Cargo

LATAM Cargo saw its cherry volumes increase by more than 30%  for the cherry peak season as it added dedicated flights to cater for the demand for the fruit.

In total, the carrier saw its cherry volumes out of Chile increase 32% year on year to 7,546 tons in 2023, despite heavy rains affecting cherry production.

The carrier said that it prepared for the cherry season by incorporating 19 weekly frequencies from Santiago dedicated to cherries. 

It also temporarily added an extra cargo aircraft to its fleet to provide more capacity for cherries and the upcoming high season for flowers, bringing the total number of aircraft to 20.

The majority of cherries, around 90%, are destined for Asia for Chinese New Year celebrations, while a smaller proportion is directed to other markets such as the US and Brazil.

Claudio Torres Faini, commercial senior vice president in South America at LATAM Cargo, said: “In response to a challenging season, we have implemented flexible measures, adjusting both flight frequencies and destinations.

“This has not only allowed us to offer our customers a greater variety of alternatives but has also generated growth opportunities, especially in the US market.”

The carrier added that it has around a 30% market share of cherry volumes transported by air out of Chile.

“Air transportation becomes an essential alternative for cherry exporters, especially at the beginning of the season, thanks to the expedited transit time, where in only 45 hours, cherries departing from Santiago, Chile, can arrive in China,” the airline said.

Latin America: Yields under pressure as capacity outstrips demand