Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) has joined customer IAG Cargo, through its brand British Airways World Cargo (BAWC), in celebrating the introduction of its brand new B747-8F freighters to its Hong Kong services. IAG Cargo and Hactl co-hosted a major reception for customers which included a tour of one of the new aircraft – the first freighter aircraft to bear the British Airways logo since 2000.
IAG Cargo now has three B747-8F’s, replacing its older B747-400F freighters. The third new aircraft was delivered to the airline at London Stansted Airport on 29 December 2011. IAG Cargo operates the B747-8F to Hong Kong 5 times per week.
The B747-8F is 5.6m longer than the B747-400F, carrying over 15% more capacity, and offers seven extra pallet positions. At the same time, it provides a longer range, reduced noise footprint, and burns 10% less fuel – so reducing carbon emissions significantly.
IAG Cargo‘s Regional Commercial Manager for APAC, John Cheetham and Area Commercial Manager for Greater China and the Philippines, Chris Chan, were on hand to address guests about the new fleet. Guests were shown a video of the B747-8F freighter in production, and received commemorative models in BAWC livery.
John Cheetham commented: “The IAG Cargo investment, through British Airways World Cargo, in the next generation fleet of aircraft is evidence of our commitment to the Hong Kong and China air cargo industry. The fleet will be an important component of the expanded IAG Cargo global network, providing additional capacity, as well as enhanced environmental performance.”
Hactl was appointed as IAG Cargo’s cargo ground handler providing physical cargo handling service for its freighters.
Lilian Chan, Executive Director of Hactl, said: “We are delighted to join our valued customer IAG Cargo in celebrating this new milestone, and we congratulate them on their decision to introduce these exciting new aircraft. The B747-8F’s much larger capacity is very obvious when we are building up each flight.
“IAG Cargo’s acquisition of these new aircraft echoes Hactl’s own continuing massive investment in its business. The B747-8F opens a new chapter in the story of this legendary aircraft type, and brings new efficiencies and environmental benefits that are vital to the future health and prosperity of our industry.”
