DB Schenker has initiated its first trans-Atlantic air charter to Latin America with a Boeing 767 freighter operated by Latam Cargo, which last week added another aircraft to its fleet to expand service to Europe. The logistics arm of German national rail carrier Deutsche Bahn has an intercontinental air network enabled by leased freighters operating between Asia, Europe and North America. Schenker essentially functions as a quasi-airline, contracting with all-cargo operators to fly the aircraft but marketing the capacity and determining routes and schedules. The in-house fleet, until now, has consisted of Boeing 747 and 777 freighters now provided by Atlas Air, Cargolux, and Magma Aviation.
Air cargo volumes in Latin America have grown while other regions are in a downturn compared to last year, according to data from the International Air Transport Association. DB Schenker said strong demand motivated the company to set up a dedicated air link between Europe and South America. Initial bookings include a range of goods, such as automotive parts. Logistics companies in the past 18 months have increased use of long-term charters to guarantee reliable service and capacity to cargo owners in response to passenger airlines not flying at full strength and canceling flights because of airport congestion and labor shortfalls. Latam offers shippers direct connections from Sao Paulo to Buenos Aires and Santiago, Chile.