Maximus Air Cargo eyes Africa for perishables

 MAXIMUS Air Cargo, the Middle East's largest freight operator, has promoted its heavy lift capacity at Africa's first biennial Air Cargo Africa Expo 2011 to gain a foothold in a market with particular focus on the potential in the perishables and in aid flights.


With air traffic volumes into Africa expected to grow 10 per cent, according to IATA, and with long reserves of resources and untapped investment opportunities, local markets in Africa hold strong profit potential," said Maximus president and CEO Fathi Hilal Buhazza, following acquisition of three new A300-600RFs.


The UAE itself imports over 160 tonnes of perishables every week which is an indication of regional demand, said Mr Buhazza, with Ethopia, Kenya and Nairobi exporters of horticulture produce including cut flowers meeting weekly demand to Europe. Nairobi exports 2,000 tons of perishables by air per week with Kenya exporting 82 per cent of its horticultural exports to EU countries.


Africa also has humanitarian relief flights, including outsize charters like helicopters, armoured vehicles, generators and water tanks. There is high demand too for oil well and mining equipment cargo on board.


"Although, players in this market include major international airlines which fly into Europe via the Middle East, there remains a need for capacity into Europe," he added, noting the company's outsize cargo and ACMI leasing fleet capacity for perishables.


"Charters are possible for outsize cargo but necessary with connections from Africa back to the Middle East or Europe," said Maximus marketing manager Joanne McConachy. "We have the flexibility to move time-sensitive goods in the most efficient methods because of our regular North African operations."


Maximus also bagged the runners-up award for the inaugural 'International All Cargo Carrier of the Year in Africa' which is a testament of the company's commitment of growth to broaden their global expansion plans.


Abu Dhabi-based Maximus Air Cargo has seen an increase to 6,000 hours flown, up 23 per cent compared to year previous. Its turnover in 2010 was up 16 per cent to AED430 million (US$117.1 million).
(Source:http://www.schednet.com)