Shortage of aircraft challenges industry

Airfreight volumes into Africa are steadily increasing which bodes well for the industry’s future, says Bennie Greyling, sales and operations manager for Airline Cargo Resources (ACR). Having recently expanded its services in the region, ACR now has offices in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Windhoek. “One can definitely see the improvement in airfreight volumes into Africa especially into parts of West Africa. The mining community plays an important role on the continent and there are usually good volumes in areas where this sector is strong,” he says. Growth in 2011 in the airfreight industry is expected to steadily increase compared to 2010, which will be remembered as the year of recovery. “Overall predictions should be an increase of 5-7% this year compared to 2010,” says Greyling. He believes opportunities in Africa are endless as long as the service is good. “Price and service play a big role and it is extremely important that a business gets the balance right. Doing continuous cross checks is just as necessary.” One of the major challenges, however, remains the shortage of the correct type of aircraft. But, says Greyling, despite this there are many opportunities to offer a good service. “We are in the process of launching a brand new airline shortly into the central part of Africa, proving that there is demand.”