Guardforce sets up its own heliport

AS SECURITY issues continue to dominate the focus in airfreight circles, Guardforce International is responding with an extended range of valuable cargo services. The company, which still boasts a pilfer-free record at its high security, purpose-designed premises on the airside of Johannesburg International Airport, is in the process of setting up its own heliport and fixed wing aircraft facility. "It's for the sole use of Guardforce customers, but we have an agreement with Acsa (Airports Company of SA) that they can use it in an emergency," said director Fred Zenna. The facility, which will serve all inbound private aircraft, enables cargo to be brought into Guardforce vaults within two and a half minutes of the aircraft landing. "It was a concept we contemplated when we opened our facility because we believe it is the epitome of security," says Zenna. And Guardforce is equally determined to realise another of its original objectives - extending its network within Africa, he added. "But we're waiting for Zimbabwe, the DRC and Nigeria to stabilise before we make any moves in that direction." Zenna is upbeat about the volume of new business that the company has brought on board in recent months. He's also particularly enthused by recent initiatives by Acsa to beef up security at JIA. "The young and aggressive new team appointed to take charge of security is like a breath of fresh air. "Acsa and the minister are doing a fantastic job. It's now up to the stakeholders to support their efforts."