Bangkok--Dec 28--PR&Associates
Air Hong Kong poised to be first carrier to operate new Airbus freighter variant
Air Hong Kong, the cargo carrier joint venture between DHL and Cathay Pacific Airways has taken delivery of its fourth new Airbus A300-600F General Freighter, freshly painted with the carrier's redesigned livery. Air Hong Kong was the first carrier in the world to deploy the A300-600F. Airbus will deliver two additional A300-600Fs to Air Hong Kong before the end of first quarter 2005. The expansion will increase its payload capacity for growing express service in Asia Pacific.
Air Hong Kong now operates two of the new freighter variants to Bangkok and Penang, adding to the status of the DHL Bangkok Hub as a centre for air cargo that can service greater traffic growth in the Indo-China sub-region.
The expansion of Air Hong Kong's fleet significantly strengthens DHL’s dedicated regional air network, which currently services 25 destinations in 16 countries with 40 dedicated cargo flights and over 800 commercial flights daily. DHL holds a 40 per cent stake in Air Hong Kong, while Cathay Pacific owns the remaining 60 per cent.
“As the only all-cargo carrier based in Hong Kong, Air Hong Kong is well-positioned to strengthen the status of Hong Kong as Asia’s leading cargo and logistics hub,” said John Mullen, Chief Executive Officer — Americas, Asia Pacific, and Emerging Markets (EMA), DHL Express. “Air Hong Kong will also complement DHL’s recently inaugurated BHT4,000 million (US$100 million) Central Asia Hub in Hong Kong and reinforce our regional air network’s payload capacity and geographical coverage.”
Herbert Vongpusanachai, Managing Director of DHL Express (Thailand) Ltd., added: “Delivery of the latest freighter operating between Bangkok and Penang is a significant step in our efforts to service the growing demand for express delivery in Thailand. The additional freighter will contribute to making Thailand an express and logistics hub for Asia and Indochina.
Air Hong Kong is also the launch customer for the A300-600GF, which differs from the A300-600F freighter aircraft currently being built for other carriers. Its unique features include a cargo loading system capable of handling almost every type of container and pallet, and a side door at the rear of the lower deck capable of handling large items of general freight. The new freighter is powered by two General Electric CF6-80C2 engines.
Air Hong Kong currently operates a fleet of leased freighters comprising one Boeing 747-200, one Airbus A300-600, two Airbus A300B4 and one Boeing B727. The route network includes Bangkok/Penang, Osaka, Tokyo, Taipei, Seoul and Singapore. As each new freighter enters service, it will replace one of the leased aircraft which will be returned to the lessors.
About DHL
With annual revenues of nearly ?22 billion in 2003, DHL is the global market leader of the international express and logistics industry, specialising in providing innovative and customised solutions from a single source. DHL offers expertise in express, air and ocean freight, overland transport and logistics solutions, combined with worldwide coverage and an in-depth understanding of local markets. DHL's international network links more than 220 countries and territories worldwide. Over 160,000 employees are dedicated to providing fast and reliable services that exceed customers' expectations.
DHL is 100% owned by Deutsche Post World Net.
DHL Thailand offers customers a comprehensive range of logistics solutions through three business units: DHL Express, DHL Danzas Air & Ocean and DHL Solutions. Customers can enjoy the convenience of one-stop-shop service, from shipping documents to containers, delivered by 1,100 DHL staff. With 25 locations around Thailand, DHL’s services cover 76 provinces in the country. For further information, please visit our website at http://www.dhl.co.th.
Press contact:
Ms. Piyalak or Ms. Bongkod
DHL Express (Thailand) Ltd.
Tel: 0-2345-5602 or 5608
Fax: 0-2285-5531
Email: [email protected]
[email protected]
Ms. Wanpen Lolertpiphop
PR&Associates Ltd.
Tel: 0-2651-8989 ext 332
Fax: 0-2651-9649-50
Email: [email protected] End.