Record volumes for Saudia Cargo in Q1
17 / 05 / 2024
Saudia Cargo aircraft. Photo: Saudia Cargo - brandcode
Saudia Cargo had a record first quarter in terms of cargo volumes as shipments of fashion, e-commerce and express goods were on the rise.
The Jeddah-headquartered business reported an overall first-quarter volume increase of 20% year on year.
Volumes for its specialised products were up by a “significant” 19% compared with a year earlier, with fashion increasing 85%, express 9% and e-commerce 34%.
The cargo business said that the increase in fashion tonnages reflected its “adaptation to the evolving demands of the fashion industry”.
Saudia Cargo has also been focussing on the e-commerce business and earlier this year launched a new partnership with e-commerce logistics firm Cainiao and handler WFS in Liege and added flights to Shenzhen targeting the online retail sector.
Saudia Cargo chief executive Teddy Zebitz said: “We are thrilled to see the incredible strides we have made in Q1 2024. Our strategic partnerships with WFS and Cainiao Group have transformed cross-border e-commerce logistics, amplifying customer service and industry innovation.
“This launch of our collaboration at Cainiao’s Liege eHub in Belgium earlier this year underscores our dedication to global operational excellence, meeting the surging demand for top-tier organisation in cross-border e-commerce across the Middle East and European markets, while also facilitating seamless logistics solutions and solidifying our position as a vital bridge between East and West trade.”
He also highlighted a rise in cargo volumes on passenger aircraft operated by Saudia Airlines.
This increase is estimated at 38% compared with the same period last year.
Zebitz added: “Saudia Cargo continues to set new industry standards while empowering businesses to flourish worldwide. All of these initiatives led to achieving the highest monthly flow tonnages for the month of March 2024 since 2017”
“We have also bolstered operational capacity by welcoming new aircraft 747 to our fleet, ensuring enhanced efficiency and timely delivery of cargo worldwide. As we continue to navigate through dynamic market conditions, we remain focused on delivering exceptional value to our customers and driving growth in the global air cargo industry.”
Saudia Cargo, WFS and Cainiao launch collaboration at Liege Airport