Cargo management specialist TCE (The Cargo Experts), part of the aviation services group Aerion, has signed a strategic Total Cargo Management (TCM) agreement with SkyUp Airlines, establishing an integrated cargo platform supported by the global commercial networks of ECS Group and Global GSA Group.
The agreement, which came into effect on 5 January 2026, places SkyUp Airlines’ cargo operations under a flexible TCM framework designed to optimise network performance, strengthen market responsiveness and support the airline’s renewed cargo expansion strategy.
Integrated Cargo Platform
Under the partnership, TCE will oversee a comprehensive Total Cargo Management model that integrates strategic planning, revenue optimisation and sales execution across SkyUp Airlines’ cargo network.
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The arrangement leverages the complementary capabilities of ECS Group and Global GSA Group, which have been appointed as subcontracted sales partners responsible for commercial representation in multiple international markets.
By combining these capabilities within a unified management structure, the partnership aims to create a performance-driven cargo ecosystem that links centralised strategic planning with local sales expertise.
Chișinău Hub Anchors Network Strategy
The airline’s cargo activities will be centred at Chișinău International Airport (RMO) in Moldova, which will serve as the operational hub for freight movements across Europe and neighbouring regions.
The TCM model prioritises dynamic demand capture rather than relying on fixed capacity commitments, allowing SkyUp Airlines to adjust cargo capacity according to changing market conditions and optimise yields across its network.
While TCE and its partners will coordinate the commercial and strategic aspects of cargo operations, SkyUp Airlines will retain operational control of cargo handling and logistics at the Chișinău hub.
Wide Range of Cargo Products
The TCM framework supports a broad cargo product portfolio designed to address both high-yield and time-sensitive market segments.
The airline will offer specialised handling for multiple cargo categories, including:
- General Cargo
- Dangerous Goods (DGR)
- Perishables (PER)
- Live Animals (AVI)
- E-commerce shipments
This diversified product mix allows SkyUp Airlines to target a variety of freight markets while improving revenue opportunities across its network.
Commercial Coordination Across Multiple Markets
Operational coordination for the programme will be led by Globe Air Cargo Ukraine on behalf of ECS Group, with technical and operational support provided by TCE Germany.
Commercial sales representation will be delivered through the regional subsidiaries of ECS Group and Global GSA Group, ensuring consistent market coverage supported by a unified commercial strategy.
SkyUp Airlines’ cargo network currently spans several key markets across Europe and the Mediterranean, including Spain, Greece, Cyprus, Turkey, Israel, France, Poland, Montenegro, Albania and Moldova.
Multimodal Logistics Expansion
The agreement also incorporates multimodal logistics capabilities within the TCM framework developed by TCE.
By integrating air cargo distribution with broader logistics networks, the partnership aims to expand SkyUp Airlines’ cargo reach beyond traditional airline sales channels and improve connectivity between regional freight markets.
Industry observers note that such integrated cargo management models are becoming increasingly common as airlines seek to optimise revenue streams while reducing operational complexity.
Leadership Perspectives
Sarah Scheibe, Managing Director of TCE, said the partnership reflects the evolving role of Total Cargo Management within modern air cargo operations.
According to Scheibe, effective cargo management today involves coordinating network performance, commercial strategy and operational execution across multiple markets rather than managing isolated business units.
At SkyUp Airlines, Daria Alieksieienko, Director of Regular Operations, said the agreement supports the airline’s long-term strategy to diversify its business and strengthen its cargo operations.
SkyUp first began developing its cargo segment in 2020, and the new partnership with TCE, ECS Group and Global GSA Group is intended to accelerate the airline’s re-entry into international cargo markets.
Jean Ceccaldi, CEO of ECS Group, emphasised the importance of combining global sales networks with local expertise to ensure consistent commercial execution across different markets.
Meanwhile, Aytekin Saray, CEO of Global GSA Group, highlighted the role of coordinated GSA operations in positioning the airline’s cargo products competitively across its expanding network.
Building a Scalable Cargo Ecosystem
The new partnership reflects a growing industry trend toward integrated cargo management models that combine strategic oversight, technology platforms and global sales representation within a single operational framework.
For SkyUp Airlines, the TCM agreement is expected to support the sustainable expansion of its cargo business while providing greater flexibility to respond to changing demand patterns in international freight markets.
