newstodate.aero
May 13, 2020 (newstodate): With passenger flights offering belly cargo capacity almost at a standstill, air cargo capacity is in scarce supply, resulting in rising cargo rates.
-On average, the rates are indeed up from their normal levels. Depending on markets there is much variation, though. For some route pairs the directionality of the cargo demand has increased, and subsequently in some markets the rates can be normal or even slightly below normal on return flights, says Mikko Tainio, Finnair Cargo Managing Director since August 2019.
-We have also seen the advent of cargo charters, and are operating several COVID-19 related flights for mostly public entities in several European countries.
-Overall, some costs are down; for example the fuel price has decreased significantly, and all-cargo operations do not entail passenger-related costs.
-Given Helsinki's convenient location along the shortest great circle route between Europe and Asia, we are in a favorable position to utilize our normal global network at both ends to perform very efficient cargo operations.
-We have so far been operating our Airbus A350-1000 aircraft that provides a good platform for cargo-only operations lifting up to 40 tonnes, or 110 cb m, and have been utilizing cabin loading to add another 50 cb m when necessary.
-Additionally, we are now studying the use of our Airbus A330-300 aircraft lifting some 32 tonnes, or 85 cb m of shipments plus 50 cb m cabin load. Our studies now also comprise using the A340 for all-cargo operations with seats removed.
-On a weekly basis we are currently serving some 50+ one-way cargo flights, and have also found new customers in need of switching modes or venues of transport due to the earlier connectivity collapsing.
-This may transform into long- lasting future business relationships as well, says Mr Tainio.
-On average, the rates are indeed up from their normal levels. Depending on markets there is much variation, though. For some route pairs the directionality of the cargo demand has increased, and subsequently in some markets the rates can be normal or even slightly below normal on return flights, says Mikko Tainio, Finnair Cargo Managing Director since August 2019.
-We have also seen the advent of cargo charters, and are operating several COVID-19 related flights for mostly public entities in several European countries.
-Overall, some costs are down; for example the fuel price has decreased significantly, and all-cargo operations do not entail passenger-related costs.
-Given Helsinki's convenient location along the shortest great circle route between Europe and Asia, we are in a favorable position to utilize our normal global network at both ends to perform very efficient cargo operations.
-We have so far been operating our Airbus A350-1000 aircraft that provides a good platform for cargo-only operations lifting up to 40 tonnes, or 110 cb m, and have been utilizing cabin loading to add another 50 cb m when necessary.
-Additionally, we are now studying the use of our Airbus A330-300 aircraft lifting some 32 tonnes, or 85 cb m of shipments plus 50 cb m cabin load. Our studies now also comprise using the A340 for all-cargo operations with seats removed.
-On a weekly basis we are currently serving some 50+ one-way cargo flights, and have also found new customers in need of switching modes or venues of transport due to the earlier connectivity collapsing.
-This may transform into long- lasting future business relationships as well, says Mr Tainio.