AirBridgeCargo Taps Aviapartner at Schiphol

AirBridgeCargo Airlines has signed a cargo handling contract with Aviapartner Cargo in Amsterdam Schiphol for the provision of full cargo and ramp handling services, effective January 1, 2009.

Aviapartner Cargo will provide a comprehensive range of services at the airport, including loading and unloading of aircraft, pushback and towing, headset, ground power, de-icing, crew transport, freight transfer, flight documentation and planning, crew briefing, weight and balance, load-plan and load-sheet. Cargo handling services will incorporate warehousing, ULD build-up and breakdown, inventory control, documentation for import and export, customs clearance, tracing, and dangerous goods handling. It will also support ABC’s specialist requirements for the handling of vulnerable products, live animals and perishables shipments.

Amsterdam Schiphol is key to AirBridgeCargo’s growth strategy, says the company. It operates Boeing 747 freighters from the airport to Russia and Asia, providing direct services to Moscow, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing almost daily and has plans to increase frequencies. AirBridgeCargo has positioned itself as a niche carrier to Russia and intends to attract more local and networked support to both Russia and Asia.

“This decision is in line with our growth strategy that will ensure our product matches our customers’ needs and it is part of the drive to support the next stage of the company’s development,” said Ludwig Hamburger, Regional Director Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) of AirBridgeCargo.

“This new contract also illustrates the longstanding and excellent relationship Aviapartner Cargo has with the Volga-Dnepr Group, ABC’s parent,” said Heath White, Chief Operating Officer of Aviapartner Cargo. “It also confirms our strong quality position in Amsterdam.”