Despite growing signs that the sharp decline in global air cargo volumes over the last year is beginning to level off, major international carriers are continuing to reduce their freighter operations.

Japan Airlines (JAL) has announced cutbacks in its all-cargo service schedule between Japan and Europe. Asia’s largest carrier stated that effective 25 October three weekly freighter services currently operated between Tokyo (Narita) and London via Amsterdam would be discontinued. At the same time, a present Tokyo (Narita)-Frankfurt route served by three freighter flights per week would operate via Amsterdam.

“While freighter flights to Amsterdam and Frankfurt will be maintained, JAL will effectively utilise belly space available on two daily B777 passenger flights operating between Tokyo (Narita) and London, to continue catering to the needs of cargo services on that route,” said JAL.

“JAL is conducting ongoing review of its passenger and cargo network and is prepared to respond with further amendments to routes, fleet and flight frequencies in efforts to maximize profitability while maintaining high standards of service to our customers,” the carrier added.