Air Belgium has appointed Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals (Hactl) to handle cargo for its twice-weekly service between Brussels and Hong Kong.

The airline started twice-weekly services on 4 June using an Airbus A340-300 with approximately 14 tonnes of cargo capacity per flight.

It has chosen Brussels South Charleroi Airport as its hub as the airport does not suffer from congestion.

Air Belgium cargo manager, John Cooper says: “Cargo will play an important role in generating revenue on this new route, and we are delighted to be working with Hactl, whose impressive handling resources, and complementary road feeder capabilities, will enable us to maximise our market opportunities.”

Hactl executive director, Vivien Lau says: “We welcome Air Belgium to the Hactl carrier family. Their innovative business model provides an interesting new option for cargo moving into Europe’s logistics heartland from Hong Kong and China. We look forward to supporting this new venture with premium quality handling and ancillary services.”

Hactl is providing the airline with full terminal handling and documentation services in Hong Kong, and Air Belgium has also established its cargo sales office within Hactl’s South Office Block.