Cathay Pacific and Lufthansa Cargo have entered into a joint business agreement, which they say brings numerous benefits to customers from joint network between Hong Kong and Europe.
Both carriers explain it means more direct connections, greater flexibility and time savings combined with service enhancements, which are just some of the benefits customers will enjoy thanks to the co-operation between the two.
Cathay Pacific director of cargo, Simon Large and Lufthansa Cargo chairman of the executive board, Peter Gerber signed the agreement for an integrated bilateral co-operation in Frankfurt.
As part of the co-operation on routes between Hong Kong and Europe, both airlines will, in the future, work closely together on network planning, as well as sales, IT and ground handling.
Large says: “Our joint network will cover more than 140 direct flights per week between Hong Kong and 13. Cathay Pacific’s large number of direct connections to multiple European destinations fits perfectly with Lufthansa’s strength in Frankfurt, the most important European air freight hub, and in Europe through its dense feeder-network.”
Gerber explains: “By joining forces, customers gain access to unique flexibility with more flights to choose from and a combination of feeder and direct flights. In this way their cargo can reach its destination hours earlier.
“We will also have more options for shipments which have to be transported by freighter due to their size or properties.”
The co-operation will also focus on service enhancements. For example, customers will be able to access the entire joint network via the booking systems of both partners.
Joint handling, initially at the Hong Kong and Frankfurt hubs, will also make things easier for customers since there is just one point for export drop off and import delivery.
Both partners plan to transport the first shipments under the framework of the co-operation from early next year – initially from Hong Kong to Europe. The ability to also book eastbound shipments from Europe to Hong Kong will then follow in the course of the year.
The joint activities will be carried out in full compliance with all applicable laws, including the competition rules of the European Union and Hong Kong.
