ACS Hong Kong predicts strong peak season

Air Charter Service’s Hong Kong office had the busiest period in its history in the final quarter of last year, and signs are that it may be bettered this year.

“Last year October and November were extremely busy charter-wise with large freighters mainly to supplement scheduled capacity to Europe and the US,” said Stephen Fernandez, cargo manager of ACS Hong Kong.

“It came as a pleasant surprise after turbulent economic times worldwide and the lack of a peak season in 2008.

Fernandez said in early October there was a sudden lack of availability on scheduled service B747s, which caused many forwarders to look at chartered flights to secure additional capacity.

“This year we have already seen clients booking a large number of charters - generally running from the end of September - in preparation for the upcoming peak season.

“So far we have mainly contracted B747 freighters, and have pre-booked more than 4,000 tons of cargo. Judging by the number of forward bookings, a very busy peak season is expected.”
(Source:www.cargonewsasia.com)