Hangzhou, with close to seven million inhabitants, has developed into a major commercial and tourist centre in China, according to AF-KLM. “This fast-growing market offers interesting cargo opportunities,†the carrier said adding that Hangzhou’s economic activities focus on information technology and electronics, pharmaceuticals and chemicals, machinery, textiles and garments.
From 7 May AF-KLM Cargo also began scheduled services between Amsterdam and San Jose in Costa Rica with the weekly flights utilising an MD-11 Freighter operated by Martinair. San Jose is an important commercial area, as well as an interesting connection point to other destinations in Central America.
In the Middle East AF-KLM Cargo began services to Riyadh in Saudi Arabia from Amsterdam twice a week utilising a Boeing 747-400 Freighter also operated by Martinair. In addition to being the largest exporter of petroleum in the world, the Saudi economy is also leveraging new opportunities in power generation, telecommunications, natural gas exploration and petrochemical sectors.
From early May the group also began scheduled services between Paris and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Flights to Abu Dhabi will be operated with an A330-200 five times a week. Although the UAE is becoming less dependent on natural resources as a source of revenue, petroleum and natural gas exports still play an important role in the economy. A massive construction boom, an expanding manufacturing base, and a thriving services sector are allowing the UAE to diversify its economy.