SAA widebody adds capacity on Windhoek route

South African Airways Cargo has put its money where its mouth is on the Namibia route and upgraded to a widebody aircraft, increasing capacity from 1.5 to almost 18 tons a flight. “Volumes to Windhoek remain consistent,” says regional manager cargo marketing & sales for Africa, Dixon Nkomo, who is upbeat about growth on the route. “With better capacity we’re able to offer the customer better options via air as no other widebody aircraft service the route bar small courier flights at night. “We believe this will put pressure on road competitors, but again the price difference is massive. Road still takes a very large part of SA-origin cargo”. In terms of cargo mix, Windhoek is largely classed as just another SA domestic destination with cargo ranging from clothing for chain stores to valuable cargo for the banks. “Courier material is a top commodity at this point,” he added. The airline offers a range of options – from courier to express to perishables. “Our rates are extremely competitive, especially with the rand trading at its current levels.” The Windhoek route forms part of SAA’s strategy to increase capacity within Africa, says Nkomo. “Nairobi is also online now with bigger aircraft and further upgrades and new freighter routes are in the pipeline. These will be communicated in the near future – who knows our 737F may also see the Namibian skies soon!”