The cargo-only route began on December 2 and will be operated once weekly.
The new route comes in response to Panalpina’s interest to cut down cargo travel time from South America to North America and LATAM Cargo’s commitment to meet the needs of its customers. LATAM Group then assessed the feasibility of this new destination, bypassing transit through Miami.
“The sustainability of LATAM Cargo’s relationship with its customers is founded on trust and collaborative work. We are continuously supporting them with their projects by offering the best alternatives possible,” said Andrés Bianchi, CEO of LATAM Cargo Group. “This allows us to fulfil our desire to be perceived as strategic partners and to expand their business together.”
Panalpina’s gateway in Huntsville, part of the Charter Network, was recently expanded to accommodate perishables. Of the new 1,626 square metres, 1,022 square metres comprise cold storage dedicated to perishables with variable temperature ranges. The coolers are located less than 100 metres from the apron where aircraft park.
With the new service, Panalpina will reach Huntsville in approximately four and a half hours, minimising distribution time and simplifying the logistics process. The freighter aircraft will have the capacity to transport some 50 tonnes of cargo per flight.
"The new route marks an important milestone as we continuously expand our Charter Network and the Perishables Network," says Roberto Schiavone, Panalpina's regional head of Air Freight Americas.