AF KLM Cargo Resumes Service to Hong Kong as Airlines Expand Freighter Capacity in Asia
Air France KLM Martinair Cargo (AFKLMP) has officially reintroduced freighter flights to Hong Kong, marking its return after a nine-year absence. This move comes as several airlines expand their capacity in the Asia-Pacific market to meet robust cargo demand.
The inaugural flight, operated by Martinair on behalf of KLM, utilized a Boeing 747-400 freighter with a capacity of 110 tonnes, flying from Schiphol to Hong Kong. Initially scheduled for three weekly flights, the service is set to increase to four flights per week starting October 27, coinciding with the winter season.
In a LinkedIn post, AFKLMP celebrated this milestone, stating, “This arrival marks our return to HKG for freighter operation after nine years.” A ceremony attended by customers, airport authorities, ground handling representatives, and employees commemorated the occasion.
The decision to resume services to Hong Kong follows AFKLMP’s announcement in July, highlighting the growing e-commerce market in East Asia. However, the new flights will lead to the suspension of some freighter services to Latin America.
AFKLMP is not alone in this trend; Qatar Cargo, Lufthansa Cargo, and CMA CGM have also ramped up capacity to the Asia region. Data from consultant Rotate shows a 12% year-on-year increase in freighter capacity from Asia to North America in August, alongside a 5% increase to Europe and a notable 28% rise to the Middle East.
Conversely, capacity on transatlantic routes has been declining, with a 16% drop from South America to Europe and a 9% decrease in the opposite direction. In North America to Europe routes, freighter capacity has fallen by 7%, and from Europe to North America, there is a 14% decline.
As part of its strategic adjustments, Qatar Cargo announced it would suspend its 777 freighter services to Santiago and Viracopos, effective September, although it will maintain support for these stations through partnerships. Freighter flights to Bogotá, Quito, and Guarulhos will continue as planned, while frequencies to India, China, Vietnam, and Europe are set to increase.
Cargolux is also reportedly boosting its capacity in the Asia region, although it declined to comment on the specifics. Additionally, Lufthansa Cargo announced plans to launch its first direct service from Asia to the U.S., reflecting the increasing demand from the region.
