At the 22nd International Air Cargo Forum and Exposition held in Bilbao, Spain recently, Emirates SkyCargo disclosed plans for further expansion, ensuring that it continues to play a trail-blazing role among the big leaguers.Two announcements it made during the show - the expansion of its freighter fleet by one more Boeing 747-400 and three new freighter routes, Johannesburg, Nairobi and Lahore - are set to benefit its customers world-wide.

After the keynote address by Ms. Loyola de Palacio, Vice President of the European Commission and Commissioner of Transport and Energy, at the conference, Ram Menen, Emirates’ Senior Vice President Cargo made a presentation on Tearing Down The Barriers to global trade arguing that “airfreight is a globalization-enabler…an airline is the best marketing agent that a country can engage to grow its economy and air cargo is the engine that drives economic activities and developments.”

He cited Dubai and Emirates as business models for liberalisation and open skies in his speech, which was extremely well received by the audience comprising of senior executives, industry experts and the media. His presentation complemented the study “Air Cargo: Engine for Economic Development” commissioned by TIACA and directed by Dr. John Kasarda, Professor of Management and Director of the Kenan Institute.

At the exhibition, Emirates SkyCargo distinguished itself with its double-storied stand that mimics an aircraft fuselage. ‘Manned’ by the airline’s cabin crew, the stand attracted immense interest in both Emirates and Dubai. Several trade partnerships were renewed and new ones forged during the show.

Prakash Nair, Emirates’ Manager Network Cargo Sales Development said: “Air Cargo Forum 2004 was akin to a Greek agora where delegates exchanged ideas and discussed issues and problems affecting the industry.

“We are delighted with our success at the forum. It provided a great opportunity for showcasing our new products and solutions; networking with our clients and stakeholders; and renewing our relationships within the industry.”

Both the conference and the trade exhibition were well attended, with over 75 per cent of the delegate turnout comprising of senior executives from various sectors of the industry including airlines; aircraft and cargo equipment manufacturers; airports; freight forwarders; cargo agents; shippers; international technology and financial services.
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