SAA Cargo identifies areas of co-operation

Volumes into Angola have been steadily increasing with both line flights and freighters now operating maximum load factors weekly, says SAA Cargo’s Dixon Nkomo, executive manager, marketing & sales: Africa. While very little is being moved out of Angola by air at present, there is significant opportunity. “There is a huge potential in the movement of mining and gas equipment together with the importation of basic goods,” says Nkomo. “But there are challenges like the infrastructure at the airport, warehousing and the language barrier.” But he is bullish about growth, with both China and America investing massively. “Our intentions are to assist with skills transfer especially on the warehousing and IT side,” says Nkomo. SAA Cargo’s core business is to provide reliable air transportation for time-sensitive freight. Besides using the belly space of SAA’s passenger aircraft, SAAC also has two Boeing 737-300Fs and two Boeing 737-200Fs for the domestic and African markets. It leverages the passenger network, interlines, partnerships and its fleet of freighters in accessing key markets to provide its customers with wider reach and seamless connectivity worldwide. Having established itself as one of the most profitable divisions of SAA, SAA Cargo has over the years leveraged advanced IT systems to ensure safe and efficient shipment of cargo, says Nkomo. Recently a new internet-based i-Cargo system was introduced to further enhance operational efficiencies and service to its customers. Nkomo says cooperation is extremely important, not just for successful dealings in Angola but also between countries in southern Africa. “SAAC is in discussion with LAD authorities to identify areas of cooperation. Areas of discussion include, but are not limited to, IT systems, operating standards and knowledge sharing.”