Two strategic General Sales Agent (GSA) appointments have been made by Astral Aviation, based in Nairobi, Kenya, to bolster its global presence and service delivery. Network Aviation Group has been appointed as the Astral Aviation GSA for Europe and the United States, while HIT Cargo Asia will handle the airline’s operations for mainland China.

These appointments are aligned with Astral Aviation’s commitment to expanding its global footprint and enhancing its air cargo solutions.

The collaboration with Network Aviation Group and HIT Cargo Asia will enable Astral Aviation to strengthen its service offerings and better cater to the growing demand for air cargo services in these key international markets. This move positions Astral Aviation for sustained growth and increased market reach.

Network Aviation Group appointed as GSA

UK-based Network Aviation Group, with its extensive experience and established presence in Europe and the United States, will play a pivotal role in strengthening Astral Aviation’s cargo operations and customer engagement in these regions. Leveraging their network and expertise, Network Aviation Group will provide tailored cargo solutions and seamless access to Astral Aviation’s extensive African network.

Sanjeev Gadhia, CEO of Astral Aviation, stated: “We are delighted to partner with Network Aviation Group as our GSA for Europe and the USA. Their deep understanding of the air cargo industry and their commitment to excellence make them the ideal partner to represent our interests and serve our customers in these key markets.”

Andy King, group sales director for the Network Aviation Group added “We are very pleased to be working with East Africa’s leading all-cargo airline again, we have over 40 years of experience, in providing air freight solutions for clients in the East African region and look forward to growing this business together with Astral.”

HIT Cargo Asia appointed as mainland China GSA

Independent Dutch GSSA HIT Cargo Asia, a leading provider of cargo services in the Asia-Pacific region, will represent Astral Aviation in mainland China. This partnership will enhance the airline’s ability to serve one of the world’s most dynamic and rapidly growing cargo markets. HIT Cargo Asia’s comprehensive market knowledge and operational expertise will ensure efficient and reliable service delivery to customers in China.

Commenting on the appointment, Gadhia said: “Mainland China is a vital market for our global operations, and we are excited to work with HIT Cargo Asia. Their reputation for reliability and excellence aligns perfectly with our mission to provide world-class cargo solutions to our clients.”

Airfreight volumes

Airfreight volumes between Europe, North America, and Africa, as well as between mainland China and Africa, have shown notable growth in recent years so this could be a good time for Gadhia and his team to form such relationships. Based on available data, here’s an overview of these trade lanes, ordered by estimated volume.

1. Europe–Africa: Europe remains Africa’s primary airfreight partner. In the first half of 2024, air cargo volumes from Europe to Africa increased by 7% year-over-year. Significant trade occurs between European countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, the UK, and France, and African nations such as Kenya, Egypt, South Africa and Ethiopia. These build on strong historical ties and increasing trade volumes

2. China–Africa: Airfreight between China and Africa has experienced substantial growth, driven by E-commerce and initiatives like the Belt and Road’s “Air Silk Road.” Cargo volumes between the two regions have surged, expected to rise 46% over pre-pandemic levels.

3. North America–Africa: Airfreight volumes between North America and Africa are comparatively lower. In the first half of 2024, volumes from North America to Africa increased by 2% year-over-year.  Trade primarily involves the export of perishables and special cargo from Africa to North America, with a focus on regions like Southern Africa.

These rankings reflect the dynamic nature of global airfreight, with Europe maintaining strong ties to Africa, China rapidly expanding its presence, and North America showing steady, albeit smaller, growth in air cargo connections with the African continent.

Let’s parrrty

On October 31, 2024, Network Airline Services threw a fantastic launch party at the London Heathrow Marriott Hotel to celebrate their new partnership with SriLankan Airlines as their UK GSSA. The event was a big hit, bringing together SriLankan Airlines’ senior management team, who flew in from Colombo just for this occasion, along with over fifty special guests and customers from the Heathrow area.

The night was full of energy and fun, turning a regular Thursday evening into something unforgettable. There was a live band keeping the vibes high, traditional Sri Lankan dancers adding a cultural touch and a spread of delicious, authentic Sri Lankan food for everyone to enjoy.

John Gilfeather, Network’s VP for the UK, Ireland, and Malta, couldn’t have been happier with how the event turned out.

“It was a fantastic evening, and we were thrilled to welcome so many of our valued customers, partners, and friends to celebrate this new partnership with SriLankan in the UK and Ireland,” he said. “We’re excited about the future with SriLankan Cargo, and we’re looking forward to what’s ahead.”