Delta insources cargo handling in Atlanta

Delta Airlines announced last week it would take back control of cargo handling operations from a contractor at Atlanta-Hartsfield International Airport.

The move reflects Delta's increased emphasis on improving cargo operations the past nine months. Many airlines have outsourced cargo acceptance, delivery and gate operations in an effort to save money. Delta Cargo said it decided to take delivery, pack and load/unload planes itself to upgrade service reliability.

We have elected to make this move in order to ensure greater accountability and control over the movement of both freight and information through Atlanta, said Neel Shah, vice president of cargo, in a letter to customers.

Air Serv, a company that provides various services throughout the airport, has been handling cargo for Delta at Hartsfield since 2006, Delta spokesman Anthony Black said.

The Atlanta-based airline plans to install about 200 to 250 of its own employees to replace Air Serv personnel beginning on Sept. 15, he said. The transition is scheduled to be completed by mid-November.

Source: American Shipper