Airasia logistics venture Teleport is bolstering its position as a regional player in cargo and logistics with the launch of a dedicated 737-800 freighter sporting unique livery design.
Stationed in Bangkok and to be operated by K-Mile Asia, the aircraft will service key markets including Hong Kong, Shanghai, Chennai, Mumbai and other destinations from Thailand, connecting long-haul markets to Southeast Asia through containerised capacity.
Teleport’s operations chief Adrian Loretz said cargo service growth in emerging markets, along with the increase in air cargo revenue due to e-commerce and technological developments has spearheaded the company’s focus.
“We are certain that the addition of the freighter under our belt will reinforce our stand in the industry – with more to come in the coming year. It not only demonstrates our confidence in our growth potential but also aids in scaling our operation to meet the air cargo market’s needs which include palletised loads over loose loading and demand a solid base frequency, reliable schedule and specific departure/arrival times,” Loretz noted.
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The addition of the dedicated freighter, which will be operated by K-Mile Asia, brings Teleport’s current fleet to a total of 252 planes, including AirAsia’s passenger aircraft.
The new freighter, with containerised main deck and capacity of 21 tonnes, can also accommodate dangerous goods items as per IATA regulations, including lithium batteries, the company noted.
Teleport chief Pete Chareonwongsak said the new addition will allow the company to shift from a pure air freight logistics provider to a complete multi-modal operator.
“We’ve always been on a fast track growth route to continuously propel Teleport’s air cargo business forward by spotlighting our commitment towards moving anything across Southeast Asia,” he noted.
Teleport’s 737-800 freighter was acquired through a multiyear agreement with Thai cargo carrier K-Mile Asia. The company noted it will be adding more key cities into the freighter’s route in the coming months.