Road transport fills domestic air freight capacity gap

MOVEMENT OF airfreight shipments by road from aircraft to eventual destination is gaining popularity in both Europe and the United States, and has recently taken on a greater significance in the South African market. Reduced cargo capacity on domestic airlines as a result of the more passenger-orientated focus has accelerated acceptance of road transportation as an extension of airline services in this country, says Cargo Service Center's Linda Longmore. "Having recognised the state of the industry, CSC took pro-active steps to set up a nationwide trucking service that currently operates regular services between our dedicated air freight facilities in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town and Port Elizabeth airports. Additional destinations may be added to meet future client requirements," she says. "By observing total 'neutrality' in the market, our trucking provides airlines and other air-freight stakeholders with an excellent alternative to the limited capacity on the domestic carriers. This development enhances the entire logistic chain as it allows CSC the total control to airport of final destination or, in the case of exports, to the airport of departure. "This type of trucking service adds value to the total handling package for the airlines the company handles, as well as providing other airlines and agents with capacity to all destinations."