News / Air Logistics wins Brussels Airlines Cargo global tender as it eyes freight growth

© Khunaspix Dreamstime.

Brussels Airlines Cargo has appointed Air Logistics Group as its new global GSSA, in a bid to get closer to its customers, the airline said this morning.

As the carrier adds capacity, and the cargo division becomes an increasingly important revenue stream, it has appointed the global GSSA to represent it worldwide with effect from September 1.

The cargo arm of the carrier has always outsourced the majority of its commercial activities – which, until ALG won the tender –  was managed by European Cargo Services (ECS).

It will, however, retain its commercial capabilities in Africa, a key market where the carrier has much expertise, and where last year it saw revenues grow 8%.

The airline said that last year its cargo traffic grew 34% on north Atlantic routes, while it is forecasting a 6% growth in tonnage next year. Cargo traffic in May alone grew 8% year-on-year. It now has eight long haul aircraft and occasionally charters a freighter. Passenger numbers grew 15% as the carrier rolled out a new strategic plan.

In a statement, Brussels Airlines said: “With this new strategic cooperation, Brussels Airlines Cargo aims to get even closer to its customers and more specifically its freight forwarder clients. New products will be launched in the coming months, in order to serve new market segments. “

In the past five years the cargo division has seen double digit growth as it added capacity.

ALG’s chief operating officer Stephen Dawkins said: “We are very complementary, as we have extensive experience in the Asian and US markets, while Brussels Airlines is the Africa expert, with its unique and comprehensive network of destinations on the continent.

“We will work together very closely to meet their customers’ high expectations, so Brussels Airlines Cargo can build an even stronger market position.”

The airline is currently developing a pharmaceutical product in partnership with Brussels Airport.