Cargo Shots by The STAT Trade Times presented by HACTL

Introduction

Weekly Roundup of the Latest Air Freight and Logistics News

In a major update for the air cargo sector, several key developments have arisen this week that highlight advancements and changes within the industry. Here’s a roundup of the latest news.

Challenge Group Secures IATA Lithium Battery Certification

Challenge Group has achieved the IATA Civil Aviation Lithium Battery Certification, adding to its existing CEIV Pharma and Live Animal Certifications. This certification, which follows six months of rigorous preparation and auditing, is essential as approximately 1.3 million lithium battery shipments are transported by air annually, accounting for around 5% of the air cargo market. David Canavan, COO of Challenge Group, highlighted that 70% of global e-commerce air shipments contain lithium batteries, making this certification pivotal for e-commerce logistics and safety.

UPS to Acquire Frot Trans for Enhanced Healthcare Logistics

UPS has announced its intent to acquire Frot Trans and its sister company BPPL, both of which are leading healthcare logistics providers in Germany. This acquisition aims to bolster UPS's capabilities in managing temperature-sensitive and time-critical logistics. Frot Trans operates an extensive network, including temperature-controlled warehousing and pan-European cold chain transportation. The deal is expected to finalize in the first quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals.

SK Mile Asia Inducts Its First Boeing 767-300 Freighter

SK Mile Asia, a Thai Express Cargo Airline, has welcomed the induction of its inaugural Boeing 767-300 freighter into its fleet. This wide-body freighter is significant for both the airline and Thailand, arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport on September 6, 2024, and set to commence operations in October. It will connect Thailand with Southeast Asia, China, and India, enhancing cargo capacity significantly.

LATAM Cargo to Triple Flights to Brussels

Starting October 27, 2024, LATAM Cargo will triple its weekly flights to Brussels Airport from 4 to 12. The newly expanded service will utilize Boeing 767 freighters, primarily focusing on transporting perishables, such as flowers from Ecuador, as well as pharmaceuticals and automotive parts back to South America. The airline aims to align its operations with Brussels Airport's sustainability initiatives by maximizing the use of sustainable aviation fuel.

Kenyan Court Blocks Adani's Lease Proposal for JKIA

In a significant legal development, the Kenyan High Court has temporarily blocked a proposed 30-year lease by India's Adani Group for the upgrade of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. The Law Society of Kenya and the Kenya Human Rights Commission argued that the country could independently finance the necessary upgrades, asserting that the deal could lead to job losses and fiscal instability. Protests and demands for investment transparency have resulted in widespread disruptions at Nairobi's main airport.

Frankfurt Cargo Hub Set for Major Transformation

Lufthansa Cargo is investing approximately €600 million to modernize its cargo hub at Frankfurt Airport, slated for completion by 2030. This upgrade will transform the facility into the most modern air freight center in Europe, covering 330,000 square meters. Renovations include enhancements to cargo handling facilities and storage systems. Furthermore, Lufthansa Cargo is expanding its global network, introducing a new transpacific flight connecting Frankfurt to Los Angeles via Ho Chi Minh City.

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Keywords

Challenge Group
IATA Lithium Battery Certification
UPS
Frot Trans
Healthcare Logistics
SK Mile Asia
Boeing 767-300 Freighter
LATAM Cargo
Brussels Airport
Sustainable Aviation Fuel
Adani Group
Jomo Kenyatta International Airport
Lufthansa Cargo
Frankfurt Airport

FAQ

1. What is the significance of the IATA Lithium Battery Certification?
The certification is crucial for the safe air transport of lithium batteries, which constitute a significant portion of global e-commerce air shipments.

2. Why is UPS acquiring Frot Trans?
The acquisition aims to enhance UPS's European capabilities in managing temperature-sensitive and time-critical healthcare logistics.

3. What new freighter has SK Mile Asia inducted into its fleet?
SK Mile Asia has inducted its first Boeing 767-300 freighter to enhance cargo capacity and connectivity.

4. When will LATAM Cargo expand its flights to Brussels?
LATAM Cargo will triple its flights to Brussels starting October 27, 2024.

5. What recent legal action was taken regarding JKIA?
The Kenyan High Court temporarily blocked Adani Group's lease proposal for upgrading Jomo Kenyatta International Airport due to concerns over costs and potential job losses.

6. How much is Lufthansa Cargo investing in its Frankfurt hub modernization?
Lufthansa Cargo is investing around €600 million to modernize its facility at Frankfurt Airport by 2030.