Project cargo pumps up demand for air charter capacity

Charter company Chapman Freeborn has seen an increase in demand from the oil and gas and mining industries and is positive of a return to growth in airfreight demand for 2014. “As industry sectors such as construction, mining and energy grow, the need for air chartering grows. Factors such as timesensitive cargo and poor roads and road infrastructure also increase the demand for air freight,” says Alfie Arrowsmith, acting country manager: Africa. He points out that in some cases, mines can only be accessed via air as there are no viable roads. Arrowsmith acknowledges that air freight also has its challenges, especially flying into remote areas. “Traditionally, Africa has been known to be difficult to operate in owing to the various regulations specific to each country and the slow turnaround time in some cases when it comes to landing permits.” He says Chapman Freeborn has overcome this by working with, or employing, recognised agents or representatives. “The company also feels that building strong collaborative partnerships across business, communities and governments will provide a strong framework for supporting mutually beneficial expansion,” he said. “Chapman Freeborn feels strongly that Africa’s growth is real and sustainable.” He believes the major challenges to the airfreight industry in general include sky-rocketing fuel prices, revised inventory management policies, competition from other transport modes and industry consolidation. “It is important to note that when dealing with the volatile nature of resources, the commodity prices are very unstable and this can give rise to scepticism, often tainted by the belief that Africa is politically unstable and conflict-ridden,” he said. INSERT & CAPTION As industry sectors such as construction, mining and energy grow, the need for air chartering grows. – Alfie Arrowsmith