Within the Americas airfreight market, shaped by fluctuating trade demands, evolving regulations, and customer-driven transformations, a regional approach can be a powerful strategy for success. 

Tailoring operational approaches to align with specific needs and leveraging innovation and efficiency can allow operators to rise to shifts in strategy or market conditions. 

“We currently serve the Americas through passenger flights, including double-daily operations to New York and other key destinations,” Rainer Krammer, Etihad Cargo’s Regional General Manager for Europe and the Americas, explained. 

“This reflects Etihad Cargo’s commitment to maintaining strong connectivity while ensuring that our operations align with market realities. 

“By focusing on optimising fleet utilisation, we’re balancing efficiency and service delivery, enabling us to continue meeting the demands of this vital market.” 

Similarly, Chapman Freeborn is focusing on bespoke services that meet urgent or specific needs:  “Our role is unique,” Jack Burt, Senior Vice President of Cargo for the Americas at Chapman Freeborn, said. 

“We focus on unique cargo requirements, whether it’s oversized shipments or critical goods. Our tailored approach serves industries like aerospace, automotive, humanitarian aid, and energy, addressing the specific demands of clients across North, Central, and South America. 

“For us, it’s about being that dependable partner when speed and precision are non-negotiable. This is what defines our presence in the Americas market.” 

Balancing trade lanes 

The efficient management of trade lanes has emerged as a key priority for both companies. For Etihad Cargo, the demand for temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals and e-commerce flows from Asia to the Americas continues to grow. 

“Pharma is a huge focus for us,” Caroline Pappas, Area Commercial Manager, Americas, at Etihad Cargo, added. 

“Our customers depend on us to provide reliable solutions for temperature-sensitive shipments via our IATA CEIV-certified PharmaLife product. The recent addition of cool dollies in Abu Dhabi has been a game-changer, addressing a critical gap and giving our clients the confidence that their goods will arrive intact and on time, no matter the conditions. 

“This focus allows us to support industries that truly depend on precision logistics.” 

Chapman Freeborn pointed to the importance of both the Trans-Pacific and Trans-Atlantic trade lanes, which remain vital to its operations. 

“The Trans-Pacific trade lane is one of the largest and most dynamic in the world,” Burt observed. 

“We handle significant demand for finished goods from Asia to the U.S., but we’re also seeing a rise in shipments moving from North America to South America. 

“The capacity reduction in South America has been a key factor, driving up costs and creating opportunities for innovative charter solutions. It’s about understanding these shifts and responding quickly to deliver value for our clients.” 

Digital transformation 

Digital transformation is reshaping the air cargo industry, and companies are keenly aware of its importance. Etihad Cargo has rolled out initiatives to promote online booking and dynamic pricing. 

“We’re actively driving digital adoption across the Americas,” Rainer noted. “However, we face challenges. Customer acceptance of digital tools is slower here compared to regions like Asia. 

“This is partly due to generational preferences—some clients still prefer traditional methods of communication. Our focus is on bridging this divide with targeted campaigns and user-friendly platforms to create a seamless digital experience.” 

Chapman Freeborn has leaned into digital advancements, introducing tracking tools that offer real-time shipment visibility. 

“Our clients rely on us for precision and transparency,” Burt explained. 

“We’ve introduced tracking tools that allow clients to monitor their shipments in real-time, providing peace of mind. For some of our most urgent cargo, we even employ third-party trackers, which clients can access directly via their smartphones. This isn’t just about technology—it’s about enhancing trust and reliability in every interaction.” 

Unique landscape 

Operating in the Americas presents individual challenges, from evolving regulations to infrastructure constraints. The US’s 100 percent cargo screening requirement, introduced in 2024, necessitated industry-wide adjustments. 

“The screening regulation was a significant change for the industry,” Burt commented. 

“It required us to adapt quickly and reconfigure our processes to ensure compliance while maintaining efficiency. Looking ahead, future customs regulations could bring additional challenges, but our focus remains on staying proactive and prepared.” 

Etihad Cargo has tackled these challenges by strengthening partnerships and implementing regional key account management strategies. 

“Our regional approach is all about being closer to our customers,” Caroline noted. 

“By having key account managers in place across Europe, the Americas, and other regions, we’re ensuring that Etihad Cargo can address customer needs more effectively. It’s this personalised attention that makes the difference in such a competitive market.” 

Outlook 

Looking ahead, there are reasons to be optimistic about growth. Etihad Cargo plans to expand its network in the Americas, with announcements of new destinations expected soon. 

“We’re eager to enhance our footprint in the region,” said Caroline. “Adding new destinations will expand our reach and also open doors to new markets and opportunities for collaboration.” 

Chapman Freeborn is exploring avenues for expansion through acquisitions and new verticals. “We’re constantly evaluating how we can innovate and grow,” Burt concluded. 

“Whether it’s through organic growth or mergers and acquisitions, our focus is on staying ahead of the curve and continuing to deliver exceptional service.”