Lufthansa Cargo Expands Freight Capacity: A Strategic Move at Air Cargo Europe
In a bold announcement during the Air Cargo Europe trade fair in Munich this week, Lufthansa Cargo unveiled plans to enhance its market presence by managing the cargo capacity of Italy’s ITA Airways. This move signals a significant expansion in Lufthansa Cargo’s offerings, aimed at bolstering its position in the global freight market.
Strategic Partnership with ITA Airways
Beginning June 16, Lufthansa Cargo will commence flights from São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Buenos Aires to Rome. This marks the initial step in gradually taking over the entire continental and intercontinental freight network of ITA Airways, pending regulatory approvals.
Why This Matters
This collaboration is set to boost Lufthansa Cargo’s global belly capacity by nearly 20%—equivalent to adding three freighters to its fleet. As Chief Executive Ashwin Bhat emphasized, “This partnership enables us to offer our customers even more flexible and reliable connections to and from Europe.”
Enhancing Customer Experience
The integration of ITA Airways’ capacity is a game-changer for Lufthansa Cargo customers. It not only expands service options but also strengthens the company’s ability to support global trade with shorter transit times and increased reach.
A Comprehensive Growth Strategy
This collaboration is part of a broader growth strategy, complementing recent additions to Lufthansa Cargo’s network. Here are some noteworthy expansions:
- New Direct Service: A Boeing 777 freighter line from Brussels to Chicago, primarily serving the pharmaceutical industry.
- Munich Integration: The integration of Munich into the A321 cargo network.
- Transpacific Service: A newly launched route connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Los Angeles.
Looking ahead, on July 3, Lufthansa Cargo will introduce a weekly service from Beirut Airport, further enhancing its short- and medium-haul A321F network. This new route will enable connections to over 50 destinations across the Middle East and Africa, including six freighter stations.
A Unique Value Offering
By mid-June, Lufthansa Cargo will operate five airfreight hubs, adding Rome to its existing locations at Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna, and Brussels. The company will leverage not just its cargo aircraft fleet but also the belly capacities from its partners, including Lufthansa Airlines, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Discover Airlines, SunExpress, and soon, ITA Airways.
The Competitive Edge
Bhat concluded, “Our strength as part of the Lufthansa Group, Europe’s largest airline group, combined with our quality service, reliability, and expertise in transporting all types of cargo—whether it’s aircraft engines, insulin, or microchips—creates a unique value offering for our customers."
Conclusion
The partnership with ITA Airways is a pivotal step for Lufthansa Cargo as it seeks to elevate its global freight operations. With expanded routes, increased capacity, and enhanced customer service, this move not only signifies growth but showcases Lufthansa Cargo’s commitment to supporting global trade dynamics.
For more insights on the evolving cargo landscape, check out resources like Air Cargo World and IATA.
