South African Airways Cargo (SAA Cargo), the airfreight division of South African Airways, has partnered with the STAT Trade Times publication for the Air Cargo Africa (ACA) 2017 conference and exhibition which will take place in February 2017 in Johannesburg.
SAA Cargo accounts for more than 50% of all air freight movements into and within South Africa and moved 115000 tons of freight to key markets across the globe in the financial year which ended in March 2016. The flagship carrier and leading international airline is all set to welcome the global airfreight community to one of the most vibrant economies of Africa.
SAA Cargo has been chosen as the ‘Airfreight and Airline Partner’ extending its warm support to all prospective participants in the event. The number of participants has increased over the years, which confirms the event’s significance and relevance to the African airfreight industry. It will be the third time this international event is held in South Africa. SAA Cargo participated as a sponsor in 2013 and 2015. As a ‘Diamond Sponsor’ for 2017, SAA Cargo will be paving the way for further expansion of the airfreight industry on the African continent.
Commenting on the decision of the cargo division of the award-winning airline, General Manager of SAA Cargo, Tleli Makhetha says, “We are excited to once again enter into a partnership with STAT Trade Times after the success of the previous conferences and exhibitions. We look forward to making a contribution to a discussion focusing on Africa’s economic growth prospects.”
ACA 2017 brings together air cargo industry leaders, general sales agents, ground handlers, shippers, traders, and the media from all over the world. It provides a platform for lively debates and unlimited networking and business opportunities. The forum will explore and assess the enormous potential of airfreight on the continent.
“We are elated that SAA Cargo has seized an opportunity to take the African airfreight community to greater heights at the International Biennial Air Cargo event, AIR CARGO AFRICA 2017 organised by STAT Trade Times which will take place in Johannesburg from 21-23 February 2017. That this will be the fourth conference and exhibition speaks volumes about the opportunities that the event has been able to provide to the various air cargo and logistics players in the industry,” says Priyo Patra, Director of events, STAT Trade Times Media Group.
Air freight plays a critical role in revenue generation for airlines and is estimated to be worth about USD 6.8 trillion globally. SAA Cargo contributes substantially to SAA’s group revenue. Overall air freight accounts for 35 % by value of goods traded globally, which includes high-value commodities, perishables and time-sensitive shipments. Airfreight industry is the significant contributor to economic growth and it continues to evolve taking advantage of the growing markets like Africa. Air freight transported by African carriers have seen a steady increase in recent times signifying the strides that Africa is making in its shift towards economic growth.
