ISLAMABAD – In a positive development, Pakistan International AirlinesRevenue from Cargo services register massive growth.
The cargo business is booming once again for the national airline, PIA. Themango season was a game-changer for the PIA cargo business, which increasedby 50%.
Recognizing the demand for carrying fresh produce, PIA has expanded itscommodity list and is now carrying fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, meat andother food items safely and timely.
The value of this service is being realized quickly by businesses and PIAis fast becoming the method of choice for transport of cargo. The increasein cargo through airlines is a global phenomenon. The value of goodscarried by airlines exceeds around $7 trillion in 2019, representing morethan 35% of global trade by value, according to the International AirTransport Association (IATA).
The reason for this turn around is the boom in the e-commerce industry.Similarly, there is a rising demand for high-value cargo, such aspharmaceuticals, live animals, components and auto parts etc.
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PIA revitalized its focus on of the biggest earners in the aviationindustry a few months ago when the load factors were dwindling, and it wasfast losing market share to more aggressive carriers. A simple logisticreorganization by the management had PIA offering cargo services atcompetitive rates and better-quality service, exploiting the advantage ofdirect flights, a critical concern for the exporters and freight forwardersof the country who want minimal handling of their shipments at transitpoints.
Record uplifts are being achieved regularly with PIA accommodating morethan 40 tons of cargo in the belly space of its Boeing 777 aircraft througheffective yield and space management. Focus on cargo has contributedheavily in the 41% increase in PIA’s overall revenue in the last sixmonths, which ultimately is improving PIA’s profitability.
The revival of our national airline is on the horizon. It is happeningfaster than expected. The new management, under the leadership of CEO &President AM Arshad Malik, is dedicated to improving the national flagcarrier. It is a difficult and challenging task but they are committed toregaining the past glory if not more!
