Emirates SkyCargo transporting record levels of freight between South America and its global network

Emirates SkyCargo, the freight division of Emirates, one of the fastest growing international airlines, has transported more than 25,000 tonnes over the past year on the burgeoning trade lanes between South America and points across its global network.

Operating to more than 120 destinations, Emirates SkyCargo has been connecting businesses to more and more international trade opportunities after strengthening its commitment to the region with the launch of a new linked passenger flights from Buenos Aires-Rio de Janeiro to Dubai - the only non-stop service from Rio to the Middle East and fastest route to Asia - and increasing the frequency of its Sao Paulo freighter service.

Companies from Brazil and Argentina - as well as a significant number from Chile and Colombia through connecting interline flights - benefited from the addition in September of a third weekly freighter service from Viracopos-Campinas International Airport, increasing the weekly capacity on the route by 33% to 620 tonnes.

Emirates SkyCargo carried more than 20,000 tonnes over the last 12 months on Boeing 777Fs, the most modern, technologically advanced large freighter in operation, which offer customers enhanced levels of flexibility and reliability.

"Our expanded services in the region have not only boosted trade levels with the UAE, but also with South America's main Far East business partners, such as China, Hong Kong and Japan, and a multitude of European countries," said Ram Menen, Emirates' Divisional Senior Vice President Cargo, in Sao Paulo at Intermodal, an event for trade, logistics, transport and international cargo [http://www.skycargo.com ] handling businesses.

"Brazil is already recognised as an economic power and we hope to help it become even stronger by contributing to the growth of its import and exports industry. Currently, Emirates SkyCargo can connect South American businesses to 32 points in Europe, 19 in the Far East and Australasia and a further 22 in Africa, where there is also huge potential for economic growth.

"With five years' experience of operating in South America we also have a strong understanding of the marketplace and the requirements of our customers, who benefit from our ever-expanding network and a reliable fleet, which becomes stronger almost every month as we take delivery of the 230-plus aircraft we have on order," added Menen.

Since the daily Rio de Janeiro-Buenos Aires passenger service started on 3rd January, more than 1200 tonnes of cargo have been transported, with pharmaceuticals, machine parts and fresh fruits and fish being carried to Dubai and onward to European destinations such as France, Italy, Germany, Portugal and the UK, while in the Far East Hong Kong and China have been the key trading partners. Commodities going in the other direction include electronics, car parts and furniture.

In addition to the belly-hold capacity of the Rio de Janeiro-Buenos Aires flights operated by a Boeing 777-300ER, Emirates SkyCargo has been offering freight space since 2007 on a daily passenger service between Sao Paulo Guarulhos International Airport and Dubai, also operated by a Boeing 777-300ER. During the past 12 months more than 4000 tonnes have been transported.