Cathay Cargo Strengthens Its Role in Hong Kong's International Air Cargo Hub

Cathay Cargo, a prominent player in the air cargo industry and part of the Cathay Pacific Group, has recently celebrated a significant achievement. For the 14th consecutive year, Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has been recognized by the Airports Council International (ACI) as the world's leading airport in terms of cargo throughput. This honor reflects Cathay Cargo's pivotal role in the global air freight landscape and highlights the operational prowess of HKIA as a crucial air cargo hub.

In the latest edition of the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) 2023 World Air Cargo Statistics, Cathay Cargo ranks among the top 10 air cargo carriers globally based on cargo ton-kilometers (CTK). Additionally, it holds the fifth position among combination carriers that operate both passenger and cargo flights. This demonstrates Cathay Cargo's comprehensive capabilities as an essential service provider in the air cargo sector.

Adding to its roster of innovations, Cathay Cargo has successfully completed an end-to-end trial operation utilizing Autonomous Electric Tow Tractors (AET). This pioneering initiative involves automatically pulling cargo from the Cathay Cargo Terminal to the West Cargo Apron (WCA) at HKIA, where cargo is seamlessly loaded onto aircraft. This state-of-the-art trial showcased the efficiency and effectiveness of autonomous operations in the airport's logistics framework.

One of the significant achievements during the trial was the successful transport of four container dollies pulled by AETs, which navigated autonomously through designated paths, demonstrating their ability to operate without human intervention. The ability to automatically transport cargo not only streamlines processes but also prepares the cargo for immediate loading onto Cathay Cargo flights, further enhancing the operational efficiency at HKIA.

Looking ahead, Cathay Cargo is poised for considerable growth. For 2024, it projects a total cargo transport volume of approximately 1.5 million tons, marking an 11% increase compared to the previous year. This impressive growth represents about 31% of the overall cargo throughput at HKIA. Additionally, Cathay Cargo operates scheduled cargo flights to over 40 destinations worldwide, leveraging the extensive global network established by Cathay Group's passenger aircraft to maximize cargo capacity in the belly holds.

Deeply rooted in Hong Kong, Cathay is dedicated to contributing to the ongoing development of the city as an international air and logistics hub. Significant investments exceeding HK$100 billion are being made in conjunction with the opening of the third runway at HKIA. This investment includes the recent order of over 100 next-generation passenger and cargo aircraft, with deliveries already underway. Among these additions are six Airbus A350 Freighters, with options for up to 20 more, further strengthening Cathay Cargo's transport capabilities.

Last month, Cathay Cargo was also awarded 'Cargo Operator of the Year' by Air Transport World (ATW), reaffirming Hong Kong's status as a leader in the air cargo industry.

Tom Owen, Director of Cathay Cargo, expressed pride in the company's achievements:
"Winning the top cargo airport recognition for 14 consecutive years is a remarkable accomplishment. It underscores the collaborative spirit, innovative capacity, and world-class infrastructure of HKIA. As the largest cargo operator at HKIA, we are invested in continuous improvements without resting on our laurels. Our investments in equipment, networks, facilities, and digital capabilities reflect our commitment to ensuring Hong Kong remains a key player in global airfreight. We will continue collaborating with the Transport and Logistics Bureau, the Civil Aviation Department, and the Airport Authority, focusing on innovation to maintain HKIA's status as the world’s best and busiest air cargo hub."

The AET Trial at Cathay Cargo Terminal

The AET trial at Cathay Cargo Terminal is a joint initiative between Cathay, the Hong Kong Airport Authority, and UISEE, a leading Chinese autonomous driving company. This groundbreaking project not only aims to enhance the efficiency of cargo handling but also improves the safety and sustainability of operations at HKIA.

The use of AETs has been complemented by advancing security features, allowing them to navigate in and out of terminals digitally without compromising safety. Alongside this, Cathay Cargo Terminal is also exploring the introduction of Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil (HVO) for non-electric cargo tractors. HVO is a renewable fuel aimed at replacing fossil fuel-based diesel, with data indicating it can reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by around 80-90%.

Mark Watts, Chief Operating Officer of Cathay Cargo Terminal, shared insights on the AET initiative:
"The successful trial of the automated tractor represents a significant proof of concept. It demonstrates that we can accomplish higher operational workflows while eliminating manual processes. Moreover, these advanced systems enhance the overall efficiency of cargo flow at the world's leading cargo airport and reduce CO2 emissions associated with traditional ground support equipment. Our ultimate vision is to advance electrification, significantly reducing carbon emissions and enhancing our leadership in digital and sustainable practices."

This milestone emphasizes HKIA's commitment to smart logistics and sustainable aviation development. The successful integration of AETs in cargo operations reflects ongoing efforts within the Hong Kong airport community to adopt innovative technologies, further solidifying the airport's status as a global aviation hub.

For more information on Cathay Cargo Terminal, please visit: www.cathaycargoterminal.com
For additional details about Cathay Cargo services, check: www.cathaycargo.com

About Cathay Cargo

Cathay Cargo is the air cargo division of Cathay Pacific Group, one of the world’s foremost air cargo operators. Based in Hong Kong, it services over 94 cargo destinations worldwide. With 14 Boeing 747-8F and six Boeing 747-400ERF dedicated freighters in its fleet, as well as utilizing cargo space in Cathay Pacific's passenger aircraft, Cathay Cargo plays a pivotal role in the global logistics network. Notably, it operates in partnership with DHL through Air Hong Kong, an express cargo carrier, and oversees operations at the Cathay Cargo Terminal at HKIA. Cathay is part of the Swire Group and is publicly listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKSE).

Visit the official Cathay Cargo website at: www.cathaycargo.com
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