Mexico is of significant importance to cargo operations, in terms of revenue and strategic positioning. Despite these challenges, there are notable shifts in the region’s economic landscape, with Mexico emerging as a key manufacturing hub for North America and Europe. This resurgence is particularly evident in Monterrey and Guadalajara, where industries are reactivating and expanding production, leading to increased demand for cargo transportation.
Additionally, unforeseen challenges, such as weather disruptions impacting harvest seasons, highlight the need for flexibility and diversification in our cargo portfolio. While agricultural products remain a significant focus, there are also opportunities for transporting high-tech goods, automotive parts, and pharmaceuticals, reflecting Mexico’s diverse industrial landscape.
By maintaining a diverse product portfolio and adapting to market trends, cargo carriers can position themselves to capitalise on the country’s economic potential while mitigating risks associated with market volatility.
Dual hubs
For over 30 years, Air France KLM Martinair Cargo (AFKLMP Cargo) has been moving freight to and from Mexico, utilising both passenger bellies and freighters. Having served Mexico City (MEX) through both means throughout that time, AFKLMP Cargo moved its freighter operations in the country to the newly established Felipe Angeles International Airport (NLU) in July last year, following new regulations from the Mexican government.
45 kilometres northeast of MEX, NLU was brought back into operational service in 2022, having been previously used as a military airfield, to allow the region to cope with congestion challenges at the country’s main hub.
With freighter operations running twice weekly from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) to NLU, AFKLMP Cargo has retained its daily transportation of goods via belly cargo to and from MEX through its 21 weekly flights.
“In February 2023, a decree was issued to relocate all cargo activities from MEX. This decision came abruptly, leaving little time for adaptation. While the move appeared politically motivated, it also aimed to alleviate congestion at the heavily trafficked airport, which primarily served passengers,” Mathilde de Rocquigny,” AFKLMP Cargo’s Mexico manager, explained.
“The transition posed a few challenges. Finding handlers and adjusting to new procedures proved difficult, as service providers were accustomed to operations at MEX. Customs agents were unprepared and lacked the necessary authorisations for exports.
“However, since last October 2023, the situation drastically improved and reached a level of normal activity.
“Negotiations successfully reduced handling costs, easing concerns for customers, and, overall, the transition, while challenging, has been navigated successfully, with operations now running smoothly at the new facility.”
Bolstered offering
This dual opportunity, in both NLU and MEX, reflects the carrier’s longstanding presence in the market, which is by continuous growth and adaption.
Operating from the new airport presents an opportunity for increased cargo volumes. This increase in payload allows for better profitability as the carrier maximises the capacity of its aircraft.
“Mexico, as a country, has a powerful industry,” de Rocquigny highlighted. “This strategic adjustment optimises our operational efficiency and enhances our service offerings to our customers.”
“It’s a promising market. Having multiple frequencies increases customer confidence, encourages more deliveries and delivers greater flexibility in scheduling shipments, enhancing our overall impact on the market.
“We boast extensive expertise in each station, including our locations in Mexico. We’ve tailored our operations for efficiency and seamless connectivity.
“Our warehouse facilities have been equipped with cold rooms and temperature-controlled processes at our regional operational base for over 15 years.
“Through this transition and adaptation, our focus remains on maintaining the high standards we’ve set. We thoroughly assessed the facilities available at NLU, ensuring they met our requirements, including working with handlers who have extensive cold storage facilities and ensuring the effective handling of perishable goods.
“Although initially, there were some challenges with certifications for certain shipments, we worked closely with our provider to ensure all necessary standards were met.
“This ensures that our services remain reliable and consistent, both in Mexico City and at NLU.”
