Jarryd Niescior, General Manager: Operations Southern Africa recently represented Team Aero Africa at the three-day Sabie Xperience Mountain bike race that took place on the 29^th April 2023, 30^th April 2023 and 1 May 2023.

An epic three-day stage race, an adventure you will never forget and an adventure to test your MTB Skills, the Sabie Xperience is about experiencing the outdoors on your mountain bike, but no matter what you’re into or what your goals are, you’ll have an action-packed three days of riding with people who share your passion.

Jarryd took part in the Sabie Xperience as it has been on his bucket list for a few years, and as an advanced and skilled mountain biker, he seized the opportunity to represent Aero Africa doing what he loves.

The race is set in the wild and remote mountain area of Sabie, Mpumalanga, South Africa, challenging riders both mentally and physically. Completing this stage race is a real achievement for riders who participate.

What started off with great warm and sunny weather on day 1, soon turned traitorous rainy conditions late afternoon on day 2, and on day 3, Jarryd had to race in wet, muddy, and cold weather, making the challenge harder than it already was, however, Jarryd pushed through this and completed the challenge and completing the race.

“It was an experience of a lifetime! Great climbs, thrilling tracks and technical enough to challenge you. It is one of the best races I have experienced to date. Congratulations to my teammate and everyone who participated in this race.” –  Jarryd Niescior

Aero Africa group expands its operations in China and the U.A.E by launching a new sea-air combined transport product from Asia to 70 African destinations via Dubai.
The new SAS product (Sea Air Solution) provides specific benefits to regional economies, airlines, airports, seaports, shipping companies, forwarders, importers, and exporters, while its Dubai hub is highly strategic in terms of time, transport, infrastructure facilities and storage costs.

“SAS is responsive to the client’s needs for a solution to service their logistical dilemma between Asia & Africa. Sea/Air multimodal Transport is quite demanding in terms of the links in the chain, and it is refreshing to see Aero Africa dedicating their team in Asia, ME and africa all focused to deliver an integrated multimodal solution to the satisfaction of their clients. “ said Chair Prof. Issa Baluch, a pioneer in Sea-Air multimodal transport and Advisory Board Member .

Jay Cameron, Corporate Product Director, said: “SAS is faster than sea freight and more economical than airfreight and it reduces CO2 emissions up to 50 %.The documentation is overseen by a CTD, a single non-negotiable cohesive document which combines AWB and Bill of Lading and is governed by Standard Conditions (1997) of the FIATA multimodal Transport Waybill “

“Freight forwarders and their clients can now avoid congested shipping lanes with long transit time (particularly to land-locked African countries and West Africa) and manage efficiently complex supply chain lead times and utilize strong pre-booked cargo capacity and BSAs ex Dubai to Africa. SAS estimated transit times from Asia to Africa range from 17-25 days depending on the origin and destination, while we only offer direct ocean carrier FCL services to Jebel Ali with weekly departures, and we maintain full control of cargo and capacity with our own service centers in China, UAE, and Africa.” Added Mrs Joey Xu, Director Airfreight China.

Aero Africa, the air cargo management group has appointed Absolom Ngari as its Director Strategy, GSSA & Airline Partnerships for the group, effective April 1, 2023.

Prior to this, Absolom served as Aero Africa’s General Manager for East Africa since July 1, 2022. He has overseen the setting up of Aero Africa’s East Africa control tower office in Kenya, as well as managing all operations, commercial activities, and business administration in Kenya and the East Africa, which he will continue to do alongside his new role.

In his new role as Aero Africa’s Director Strategy, GSSA & Airline Partnership, Absolom will be responsible for spearheading the Aero Africa Aviation, the group’s cargo GSSA business, managing its commercial activities, product development, strategic leadership, contract management, managing airlines partnerships across the African continent. He will also be instrumental in the development and implementation of the Aero Africa group’s global strategic initiatives, as well as other business development responsibilities, while working closely with Aero Africa’s top leadership team.

Absolom has a proven track record of working with leading global cargo airlines, aviation companies, and cargo GSSAs in Africa for the past 17 years. He is an accomplished air cargo management professional with a strong background in Africa Air Cargo Market, Strategic Leadership, Global Cargo Sales, Commercial Management, Contract Management, Customer Service, Product and Business Development and Administration, Negotiation, and Operations Management.

Absolom has previously held senior positions at Global Focus Logistics Ltd (a former Kenya GSSA partner of ECS Group), Turkish Airlines Africa Cargo’s Africa Directorate, TAL Aviation Cargo (an Israeli GSSA company), Africa Direct Ltd (a GSSA for Ethiopian Airlines Cargo), Africa Potential Consulting, and Swissport Cargo Services.

Absolom has extensive knowledge in the aviation cargo industry and fundamental airfreight skills, which have earned him a reputable image within the aviation industry. Absolom has a Bachelor of Management and Leadership degree and is currently pursuing an MBA in Strategic Management. He also has several academic diplomas, aviation training, and air freight industry certifications.

“AB has proved his expertise and experience in the airline/GSSA field over the last months and I’m sure this will take us from strength to strength and add value to goals. I am confident that he will be a valuable asset to our company in his new role as Director Strategy, GSSA and Airline Partnerships.”

Aero Africa CEO – Africa, Jade Da Costa.

Beginning 30 March 2023, Aero Africa has been the appointed Cargo General Sales & Services Agent (GSSA) for Salam Air in Kenya.

Salam Air freighter service from Nairobi (NBO) to Oman (MCT) is set to start from the April 9, 2023, with a once-weekly Airbus A321 passenger to freighter (P2F) conversion aircraft. (A321-200P2F Cargo Freighter). The frequency will be increased to twice weekly soon due to increased demand for perishable air freight capacity from Kenya to Oman.

Aero Africa is an air cargo management group dedicated to providing African logistic solutions and neutral value-added services to the global logistics and aviation community.

Salam Air is an Oman-based low-cost carrier that serves as the Sultanate of Oman’s second national carrier.

For Booking & Reservations:
Aero Africa Mashariki Cargo Solutions Ltd
Airport Trade Centre, 2nd Floor, JKIA, Nairobi. Kenya
Contact Person: Absolom Ngari
Director Strategy, GSSA & Airline Partnership
Cell: (+254) 729 733731
Email: absolom@aero-africa.com

Aero Africa was proudly represented by Hamza Benzina, our North Africa Solutions Manager, at the Hispano-Moroccan Business Meeting in Morocco.

 The IX Edition of the Hispano-Moroccan Business Meeting was organized by The Official Chamber of Commerce of Spain in Tangier on the 23rd and 24th of November 2022 at the Hotel Farah Tangier, under the auspices of the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Tourism of Spain, the Economic and Commercial Office of the Embassy of Spain in Rabat, and with the support of Moroccan institutions and official bodies, under the theme “The Maritime Sector, Transport, and Logistics: A Lever Of Development And Competitiveness.”

 The main representatives were from Spanish ports and transport and logistics companies based in Spain and Morocco. Their objective was to develop innovative transport solutions between Morocco and Europe and to continue to reinforce their presence in the Maghreb market.

Hamza seized the opportunity to be the only participant presenting airfreight solutions during a meeting that was mostly centered on ocean/road freight. Since the members already provide services from Europe to Morocco, Hamza proposed a cooperation in which Aero Africa would assist in airfreight operations from China/Asia to Europe, while the members would continue to provide the proceeding services from Europe to Morocco, thereby creating a combined “Air/Road services” product.

 Although the primary focus of the event was not airfreight, Hamza had productive discussions with Morocco-based Spanish companies and was able to showcase the unique airfreight solutions that Aero Africa can offer to Moroccan members and to continue building relationships with the Spanish companies operating in North Africa.

Aero Africa attended the just concluded fourth edition of the ‘Flowers & Perishable Logistics Africa’ event organized by Logistics Update Africa, a STAT Media Group publication held at Radisson Blu Hotel in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 23 – 24, 2022.

The conference aimed at addressing the latest trends in temp-controlled logistics & tackling pressing issues related to trade. The event emphasized the importance of perishable supply chain of Africa focusing on its natural strengths and advantages.

Aero Africa was well represented by Absolom Ngari, General Manager – East Africa and Leo Barbaroussis, Commercial Manager for East Africa.

Aero Africa Sub Saharan Africa (Pty) Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of Dane Yelverton as Coastal Operations Manager.

Dane started off his career as a ground handler at Swissport and worked his way into the clearing and forwarding industry before finding himself working for a wholesaler. He has a vast amount of experience in the industry with 10 years spent in Johannesburg and another 4 years as the branch manager in Durban for a groupage company.

He has worked with a particular focus on airfreight imports but also has experience in airfreight exports, sea freight and sales.

In his new position Dane will be based in Durban and will be responsible for the growth of the coastal operations for Aero Africa with a specific emphasis on Durban.

Leo’s professional journey started as an intern in investment banking while studying at the National Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA).

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics (major in Economic policy and Development) and a minor in Finance.

While working for the investment banking department of Alpha Bank, a major commercial bank in his home country, Greece, Leo was first introduced to financial modeling and was offered an analyst position at the Real Estate Investment & Public-Private Partnership subdivision. After successfully creating a portfolio valuation and risk analysis model that was later developed as a general appraisal model, it offered valuable information to management for investment decisions.

Leo’s experience working in investment banking was crucial for developing his skill set and obtaining a better grasp with experience of the practical side of business and helping him build an analytical mindset and framework.

Leo was then appointed by a well known eyewear manufacturing and distribution company where he developed proprietary tools for efficient reporting, order processing and inventory management thus enhancing his operational management skills. Becoming more involved with clients and through identifying their problems, wants and needs, Leo was able to help deliver better services through superior customer experience and communication.

The next step in his career was in Account Management and Sales for a large food processing equipment and consumables company, being responsible for further developing the business in Greece and negotiating new contracts with clients abroad, getting him valuable experience in exports.

Over the past 2 years, Leo has found and managed a private consulting office that mainly advises in export strategy and assists export development in the Greek food manufacturing industry, analyzing key markets and identifying new clients, developing go-to-market strategies, conceptualizing new product lines and market-specific offers, creating new competitive concept proposals and negotiating contracts.

During this time, he was appointed by a pastry manufacturing company as General Manager, successfully applying operational efficiency and lean management principles.

The adversities that a new business has to overcome and the lack of resources has helped Leo develop resilience, resourcefulness, and an optimistic attitude. Having to create his own website, build web applications for client needs and develop tools to analyze business data, has allowed him to overcome limitations beyond the confines of his studies and his previous work experience.

Working with market leaders in their respective industries, Leo has collaborated with experienced cross-functional teams, including marketing, sales, product development, and manufacturing. Working with people from different markets on various projects aligns with his personality and interests and has helped him acquire specific problem-solving skills regarding business while further enhancing his business development, communication, and collaboration skills.

Kenya office bolsters East Africa presence

Ongoing investment in infrastructure development to support economic growth and global trade, along with growing regional cooperation between African countries to promote common trade policies, will bolster demand for reliable and seamless logistics solutions from the world into Africa.

According to Jade Da Costa, Africa CEO of Aero Africa, an overall increase in demand is already evident.

With this in mind, the company has invested heavily in its new regional office in Nairobi, Kenya, which is strategically located at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.

“It positions us to serve our customer better – with neutral airfreight import consolidations from the world to East Africa,” says Absolom Ngari, general manager for East Africa. “ This office looks after the group’s interests in the region, operating as a control tower and centralised service centre in East Africa for our overseas partners and clients. It also focuses on promoting our digital airfreight portal, developing blocked space agreements (BSA) scheduled consolidations from the USA, Asia and Europe to East Africa.

According to Da Costa, Africa offers the highest return on investment of any emerging market at present. “This is due to several reasons: competition is less fierce, there are few foreign companies present, and consumer demand is strong.”

He says with the African continent’s accelerated economic growth, and the corresponding increase in logistics activities from direct trade with the Far East and the rest of the world, it has become critical to provide the logistics and aviation sectors with a tailor-made, simplified neutral air cargo solution, supported by a secure financial transacting platform through which to conduct air cargo business with Africa.

“Companies are looking for high visibility of their supply chains – and the reduction of parties not only gives them control over the process, but increases the visibility of the procurement process all the way to delivery. It is about end-to-end solutions,” he explains.

According to Ngari, there are several positive developments on the continent – including the modernisation of airports, seaports and airlines among others.

Airline investments a top priority

“African airline investments are a top priority, with Ethiopian Airlines and Astral Aviation topping the list. We are also seeing regional integration efforts, and harmonisation/reduction of cross-border tariffs and barriers, resulting in predictable trade environments.”

Da Costa agrees, saying market liberalisation efforts and initiatives to reduce trade imbalances between countries have to be commended.

“In this environment, relationships are crucial. The focus is on people rather than the actual transaction on the table. Having a good network of the right partners is an asset to any business, especially in the supply chain.”

The airfreight sector, however, is not without challenges. “Global supply chain constraints and interruptions, for example, the loss of capacity due to the war in Ukraine, continue to impact local operations,” says Da Costa.

“Economic uncertainties have a substantial impact on demand for air cargo, and foreign exchange is still problematic.”

Despite the ongoing investment in infrastructure, it still does pose some challenges in several African countries, resulting in increased costs.

Fluctuating fuel prices a concern

“Cross-border limitations due to tariffs and other political factors or diplomatic differences can also play a role,” says Ngari. “Of course, global fuel price fluctuations, which impact on operating profits of the operation and market airfreight rates continue to be a concern.” Despite the challenges, Africa’s airfreight and logistics market is in expansion mode as it emerges from the pandemic, and it is attracting significant investment.

According to the 2021 Airbus Global Market Forecast (GMF), the projected growth in the continent’s economy will push up air traffic to achieve a full recovery to 2019 levels between late 2023 and early 2025. The strong recovery is attributed to “the fundamental drivers of traffic demand remaining unchanged: economic growth faster than the world average, young and growing population, urbanisation, and middle-class development”.

Aero Africa – ACOC Golf Day

Aero Africa – Sub Saharan Africa was proud to host and sponsor two four-balls, and a T-box at the Air Cargo Operators Committee (ACOC) Golf Day that took place on the 4^th November 2022, at the Benoni Country Club, Johannesburg, South Africa.

The golf day had a rough start due to the weather we had, after the initial date had to be postponed due to the rainy weather however, a week later we were all ready for the long-awaited day of golf.

The Air Cargo Committee is committed to advancing the industry’s understanding and knowledge of air cargo economics and practices. Its focus is to assist airport operators in the management of existing air cargo resources, maximization of potential air cargo opportunities and the enhancement of air cargo revenues, in addition to providing a forum to discuss cargo-related security issues and developing concerns in the air cargo industry.

This year, the ACOC golf day managed to raise over a whopping R40 000.00 for the nominated charity:

All Hearts Foundation https://www.allheartsfoundation.co.za/.

Aero Africa is so thrilled to have contributed towards this wonderful charity.

Representing Aero Africa on the golf course was Gay Tobias: Director – Operations Southern Africa and Jarryd Niescior: Regional Operations Manager, and our stand was managed and represented by Raj Reddy: Manager – Charter Operations, Vicky Papageorgiou: Client Relations & Marketing Manager and Samantha Pyper: Operations Administrator.

Aero Africa Mashariki Cargo Solutions Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of Lucy Njoki as Admin & Operations Manager, Kenya. Lucy will be responsible for the assisting the GM in running of the operations, finance, compliance, and other administrative activities in Kenya, for the East Africa Control Tower for Aero Africa.

Lucy started her career in logistics in 2012. She is a skilled air cargo management professional with core experience in commercial management, operations management and coordination, business administration, client service management, pricing, and finance management.

Before her appointment, Lucy worked with Polygon Logistics Ltd, growing from an intern in the accounting department, to an account assistant, a supply executive and to an export manager, a position she held from 2016 up to September 2022.

Lucy holds an MBA, Finance from The University of Nairobi and a bachelors’ degree in Business Management, finance, and banking option, from Moi University. She also holds various training and certifications in the air freight industry.

Lucy is very passionate about customer service; she’s delighted to see a satisfied and happy customer coming.

EX WORKS EUROPE OR FCA AMS – NAIROBI, KENIA

Aero Africa Sub Saharan Africa (Pty) Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of Absolom Ngari as General Manager for East Africa. Absolom will be responsible for the running of all the operations and commercial activities as well as business administration in Kenya and the East Africa Control Tower for Aero Africa.

Absolom started his career in Aviation in 2006. He is a skilled air cargo management professional with core experience in Africa Market Air Cargo Strategy Development, Global Cargo Sales, Commercial Management, Business Development and Administration, Negotiation, Leadership and Operations Management in various sectors including logistics, airline cargo and GSSAs.

Absolom has a demonstrated career history of working in the airlines/aviation industry for the last 16 years. Until recently, Absolom worked for Africa Potential Consulting Ltd, an Aviation and Logistics Consulting Company based in Kenya as Commercial & Operations Manager.

Before that, Absolom worked with Turkish Airlines Cargo, TAL Aviation Cargo, Africa Direct Ltd (GSSA for Ethiopian Airlines Cargo), Global Focus Logistics Ltd (GSSA partner for ECS Group) and Swissport Cargo Services.

Absolom has built up extensive knowledge in the Aviation Logistics industry and possess’ fundamental Airfreight skills that has provided him with a reputable image within the aviation industry.

Absolom holds a bachelor’s degree in Management and Leadership and currently pursuing an MBA in Strategic Management from The Management University of Africa. He also holds various training and certifications in the air freight industry.

Aero Africa has finally had its launch, initially delayed more than two years because of Covid-19, but certainly worth the wait.

200 professionals from the South African Logistics community and partners from around the world attended the- worth the wait – event at the Ivy Garden roof-top bar, in Bedfordview Johannesburg

Started just before the coronavirus outbreak, the neutral airfreight consolidator had a birth of fire of sorts. Thankfully, with Jade da Costa and the new team running the new outfit’s African commercial operations, it was assured of success from the start. Aero Africa and its team enjoyed a sumptuous evening with the who’s who of the airfreight fraternity

Now that the launch has finally happened, hard work lies ahead in a supply-chain environment that requires deft navigation.

Our West Africa team have successfully carried and handled a 27T KATO crane ex Indonesia to DDP Bangui C.A.R for the United Nations under military escort. This kind of cargo needs special care, and it is crucial to meet the exact schedule and to arrive safely to destination. Special thanks to Nina Carcat and her team, and to our valuable customers and reliable partners for their assistance.

Following our successful BSA neutral scheduled consolidation services from EU, China, and the UK , we are pleased to announce the launch of our new air import services ex India.

Aero Africa will now provide our forwarding agents with additional weekly scheduled services from 5 air cargo gateways in India on premium carriers, and full services for special cargoes including dangerous goods, pharma, and perishables. In partnership with SA Group, the leading neutral airfreight wholesaler & consolidator in the Indian market, we are very confident to provide our clients with innovative air cargo solutions from a very important trade-lane.

We accept cargoes at our drop-off stations in BOB,DEL,BLR,MAA,CCU and we can provide simplified D2A EXW competitive rates nationwide. Please do not hesitate to contact us and learn more about our new service, and receive special rates for weekly base loads, high density, and volume cargoes.

Aero Africa has launched another service to Johannesburg, says regional operations manager Gary Tobias. The company has been on a drive to scale up its service offering for some time as part of its longer-term growth strategy.“The new service constitutes a level 1 blocked space agreement (BSA) out of Heathrow to Johannesburg on British Airways,” said Tobias. “The airfreight rates are unrivalled, and this kind of service cannot be found anywhere else in the market, currently. “One of our key advantages is being able to build our own build-up (BUP) with our partner at Heathrow.”

Tobias said this allowed the company great flexibility in terms of airfreight rates and space offerings to its clients. “We’ve structured our rates in such a way that our service encourages co-loads, so we can attract not only charges-collect traffic but also the prepaid traffic.”He told Freight News that clients were increasingly demanding this kind of flexibility from their service providers. “They are also looking for more reliable services and affordable rates which existed pre-Covid-19. Although we are not over the pandemic yet, we understand the need for this and we’re striving to implement more products like our Heathrow to Johannesburg service to give them the options and alleviate some of the economic pressures currently experienced in the supply chain.”Tobias said the biggest challenge in the airfreight sector was still extremely high rates. “In South Africa, we are also facing serious space constraints into Johannesburg, particularly from the Far East.”He said that, ironically, this was currently where the most opportunity was being identified.“With the Chinese New Year having recently passed, we expect this market to open up.”The ongoing trials and tribulations experienced in the ocean freight sector continued to boost airfreight operations, added Tobias. “Seaport congestion and rising sea freight costs across the globe continue to entice greater airfreight movement. We have an extremely positive outlook at present, not only for the local airfreight sector, but also for airfreight at large.

Now that the new airfreight season is coming, we are proud to announce that we are hosting our South Africa office launch Party in JNB on 13th April, and we invite our loyal customers, friends, and partners to join the celebration.

We are pleased to announce that we have signed a new level 1 BSA agreement ex LHR to JNB on British Airways, the most premium BSA scheduled consol service available with our current market conditions. Our team can provide you with :

• Neutral scheduled consolidations
• Competitive rates
• Guaranteed uplift and arrival
• FCA / EXW Charges available on request
• Special rates for high dense cargo
• No local handover charges for prepaid co-loads in JNB
• Clearing and drawing from Swissport

You can download our service flyer HERE
For more information, please contact the undersigned or email us at jnb@aero-africa.com

We are proud to present another milestone in companies’ product portfolio, with the launch of our new Hand Carry & On-Board Courier express service for door-to-door and time-critical shipments.

As a neutral solutions provider, the new OBC service will focus on providing reliable transportation solutions to our freight clients to meet the demands of time-sensitive industries such as the Automotive, Aerospace, Aviation, Energy, Health Care, Pharma and Maritime. The service is in partnership with TCS Time Critical Solutions BV, a leading neutral carrier of global OBC solutions which we proudly represent as GSA in the African Continent.

Our couriers are located around the globe, well-prepared and ready for take-off. All our couriers are qualified, screened and have correct travel documents (passport and visa). In principle we accept carry-on baggage, checked-in and excess baggage, including DGR and temperature-controlled complying with airlines’ guidelines and IATA regulations.

Transport via our onboard courier service ensures a more secure, seamless, and faster delivery of your time-critical consignment. Customs declaration and clearance are done via the passenger channels which speeds up the entire process. It can make a difference of minutes and hours rather than the 24 to 72 hours waiting times for normal airfreight. Our couriers maintain full custody of the items they carry throughout the entire transport, from pick-up to final delivery.

Each onboard courier solution is unique. Every part of the transport, from pick-up to delivery has been created individually to meet your demand, time frame and budget. Our 24/7 OPS Desk team is fully dedicated to deliver high priority consignments in the fastest and safest way. Any OBC request will be quoted within 15 to max 30 minutes, at the same time we already have one of our qualified and screened onboard couriers on stand-by. Minutes after confirmation our courier is already on the way to the pick-up address

For more information do not hesitate to contact us or email us at obc@aero-africa.com

Aero Africa Sub Saharan Africa (Pty) Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of Mary Pillay as a Sales Consultant. Mary will be responsible for Sales in South Africa growing existing business and acquiring new business.

Mary started her career in Aviation in 1996, working for Sun Air Sales and thereafter SAA Cargo Sales up to 2020. She brings a wealth of experience from passenger retail and 21 years cargo experience.

Trained in IATA Cargo courses, Dangerous Goods as well as negotiation and selling skills, has equipped her to close the deal.  Mary has a strong relationship with the cargo market in Durban especially the airfreight sector.

Aero Africa – Sub Saharan Africa was proud to host and sponsor for the first time, a four-ball, as well as to set up our very own stand at the Air Cargo Operators Committee (ACOC) Golf Day that took place on the 28^{th of} October 2021, at the Benoni Country Club, Johannesburg, South Africa.

The Air Cargo Committee is committed to advancing the industry’s understanding and knowledge of air cargo economics and practices. Its focus is to assist airport operators in the management of existing air cargo resources, maximization of potential air cargo opportunities and the enhancement of air cargo revenues, in addition to providing a forum to discuss cargo-related security issues and developing concerns in the air cargo industry.

Our very own Jade Da Cost – CCO and Jarryd Niescior -Regional Operations Manager represented us on the golf course and our stand was managed and represented by Jay Cameron – Director – Product Development, Raj Reddy – Operation Manager and Vicky Papageorgiou – Client Relations Manager.

Aero Africa Sub Saharan (Pty) Ltd South Africa, branch of Aero Africa air cargo management group, have been appointed as Cargo General Sales Agent (GSA) by FitsAir. FitsAir Cargo has been a pioneer in the air cargo industry since 1997, connecting cargo to and from every corner of the globe and serving the world for over 2 decades with our extended outreach. Having progressed and made advancements over the years, FitsAir Cargo now caters a wide range of air freight solutions to choose from.

FitsAir has a vast interline network supported by special prorate agreements with over 150 partner carriers including prime carriers and Road Feeder Services, utilizing its 319 prefix.
FitsAir is a member of the IATA Clearing house & the Multilateral interline Traffic agreement (MITA). FitsAir’s AWB is registered with customs in most parts of the world including almost all airports in India and in the USA, FitsAir has also satisfied the advanced commercial information requirements of the Canada Border Services Agency. FitsAir product is also supported by its own mixed fleet and contracted cargo charter flights for its exclusive use.

“We are extremely pleased to announce this appointment. This newly struck partnership further strengthens our neutral wholesale and airline brokerage products, and widens our reaching coverage to and from the South East Asia, India sub-continent and beyond. FitsAir’s interline partnership with over hundred leading airlines, will enable us to offer our clients uplift solutions with reliability to and from hard to reach airports and complex destinations. Our professional and experienced team will work continuously to position Africa as an important point of sales for the airline’s international network” says Jade Da Costa CCO Aero Africa.

“We are very pleased to be working with such an energetic partner like Aero Africa and are looking forward to closely collaborating” says Musaab Kassim Director FitsAir.

Aero Africa Sub Saharan Africa (Pty) Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of Vicky Papageorgiou as Client Relations Manager.

Vicky will be responsible for all client relations, solutions, and business administration in South Africa, and for growing our social media content, further enhancing Aero-Africa’s presence on the African continent.

Vicky started her career in Aviation in 2007. She is an experienced Air Charter Specialist with a demonstrated history of working in the airlines/aviation industry, skilled in Aviation, Customer Services, Negotiation, Business Strategy, Management, Coordination, Marketing, New Business Development and Business Administration. Vicky has spent 13 years in various charter companies including operators and ground handlers and has developed a strong background in the charters’ industry as well as in customer services. Working for a large regional corporate freight company has enhanced her airfreight capabilities on both local and regional sectors.  Vicky has built up extensive knowledge in the Airfreight sector and possesses fundamental Airfreight skills that have provided her with a reputable image within the industry.

Aero Africa Southern Africa is pleased to announce the appointment of Kati Mackay as Regional Financial Manager. Kati will be responsible for the Financial Resources at Aero Africa, supporting the Executive Management team and offering insights and financial advice. Kati will be based in our Regional head-office in Durban South Africa.

She has more than 10 years’ experience in the Finance field and began her career abroad in London working for Royal Bank of Scotland before moving back to South Africa and taking on a Financial Management role in the Clearing and Forwarding industry.

Kati earned a bachelor’s degree in Financial Management Cum Laude and holds a CIMA Dip MA accreditation.

Aero Africa Sub Saharan Africa (Pty) Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of Jarryd Niescior as Regional Operations Manager.
Jarryd will be responsible for Regional Operations in South Africa as well as growing our Final Mile Solutions product across the Rest of Africa, further enhancing Aero Africa’s presence on the African continent.

Jarryd started his career in Logistics in 2012 and spent 5 years at Neutral Wholesaler CFR Freight SA (Pty) Ltd. Jarryd has also done consulting work for many of the larger corporates further enhancing his airfreight capabilities on both imports and exports.
Jarryd has built up extensive knowledge in the Airfreight industry and possess’ fundamental Airfreight skills and training that has provided him with a reputable image within the airfreight industry.

Jarryd will also be very instrumental in rolling out the Aero Africa digital platform in Africa.

Aero Africa – The Hong kong based air cargo management group, catering to the freight forwarding and aviation community, begins to gain momentum and significant air cargo market share within the African logistics industry,  explains Jade Da Costa CCO .

Aero Africa Southern Africa is pleased to announce the appointment of Gary Tobias as Regional Operations Manager. Gary will be responsible for the regional airfreight import and crossborder operations of Aero Africa.

Gary started fresh in the wholesale industry working at CFR Freight SA (Pty) with airfreight exports and airfreight imports. He was soon moved into a Key Accounts role at CFR where he oversaw several of the most important clients. Thereafter he moved into a route development role to develop products from Europe and Asia.

Subsequently, he was offered an opportunity to run the Cape Town airfreight operations as the operations supervisor in August 2019. Gary has since relocated from Cape Town to Johannesburg where he is now based to assist the regional development of Aero Africa. Gary Tobias has obtained a post graduate degree in B.Com Honours Logistics Management and joins Aero Africa after more than 7 years of experience within the Airfreight Wholesale Industry.

Aero Africa Asia’s team is excited to welcome Joey Xu, in the newly-created position of Director Airfreight Asia. Joey will be responsible for the overall airfreight development of the group in Asia with focus on procurement with carriers and optimizing our neutral scheduled airfreight consolidations from Asia to Africa. She will also assist our business development team to promote our African solutions to the Asean freight forwarding and aviation community.

Joey is well accustomed with procedures and has extensive knowledge in the China airfreight market. She has been working with airlines’ key persons for many years and has built excellent relationships. Before joining Aero Africa she worked as regional air freight manager & head of air freight for M&M, On Time Express, and Shipco Transport.

Aero Africa is an air cargo management group dedicated to providing neutral African logistic solutions and value-added services to the international logistics and aviation community.

With an African network in over 84 airports covering all 54 countries, and with selected trusted air cargo professionals in each, we offer bespoke, cost-effective solutions, to and from the African continent. Our services include airfreight wholesale & brokerage, neutral consolidations, GSSA and CSA activities, time critical, charter & project operations, as well as first & final mile solutions including services to remote and hard to reach destinations in Africa

The on-going challenge that we will face over the next few weeks & months would be storing and transporting the Covid-19 vaccines, often at temperatures lower that -70 degrees C. We have highlighted our strategic hubs in Johannesburg & Nairobi as the best suited airports to handle a smooth transfer for the vaccines for our regional network rollout into Southern & East Africa.

Aero Africa operates regional B737F feeder freighter services via JNB to/from Southern Africa and Indian ocean islands, and we are very excited to partner with leading regional cargo carriers in East and West Africa. We have carefully selected our  ground handling partners in Johannesburg & Nairobi that we have worked with for many years, and we have also moved into a strategic partnership with Tower Cold Chain Solutions to utilise their equipment for all our shipments from origin to final deliveries in our region. We will also have the possibility to monitor the temperature control using the same equipment for perishable of dry shipments the entire journey. With our platform in Africa we will ensure the stock is moving at all times.

We have set up a vaccine team in both Johannesburg & Nairobi to monitor all the shipments on 24 hour basis and have engaged with specialist cool chain transport partners to upgrade tracking and GPS capabilities. Some delivery supply for government would be in rural and remote sites and possibly only found by GPS co-ordinates and all vehicles will be following a strict protocol.

It comes without saying that we would be very active over the next few days on confirmation from carriers and local governments on their documentation requirements and regulations into moving the vaccines. We would need to avoid all delays and risk in terms of the transit stations.

All parties need to work together and support each other for the roll out to happen smoothly. Aero-Africa is committed to stay in touch with the customer demands throughout the process of vaccine supply and will remain agile at all times and can work through the challenges that lie ahead.

Aero Africa was founded by a group of logistics entrepreneurs with vast experience and extensive knowledge of the African market and the air cargo industry. Due to the accelerated economic growth on the African continent and the increase in logistics activities and the direct trade with Far East and the World, it had become critical to providing the logistics and aviation sector with a tailor-made and simplified air cargo solution, as well with a secure transacting platform with Africa. Aero Africa operates through four regional service desks in Africa, Europe and China, and under one centralized accounting center, servicing exclusively the global freight and aviation community .

As a neutral airfreight broker & solutions provider, we offer scheduled cargo services including transit and final mile solutions, to and from : ABJ,ABV, ACC, ADD, ALG, APL, ASM, BEN, BGF, BJL, BJM, BKO, BLZ, BUQ, BZV, CAI, CKY, CMN, COO, CPT, DAR, DLA, DSS, DUR, DZA, EBB, NEU, FBM, FIH, FKI, FNA, GBE, GOM, HGA, HME, HRE, JIB, JNB, JRO, JUB, KAN, KGL, KRT, LAD, LBV, LFW, LLW, LOS, LUN, MBA, MGQ, MPM, MRU, MSU, MWZ, NBO, NDB, NDJ, NIM, NKC, NLA, NOS, NSI, OLA, ORN, OUA, OXB, PHC, PNR, POG, POL, RAI, RBA, ROB, RUN, SEZ, SHO, SSG, TNR , TUN, WDH, WVB, ZNZ and more.

Please visit our website www.aero-africa.com for more info, and do not hesitate to contact us for any assistance you need in the African continent .

Jade Da Costa CCO
management@aero-africa.com

We are delighted to welcome Cecile into our air cargo logistics family. 

Cécile is a lawyer of French nationality, with an extensive international experience in shipping and transportation law throughout her career. Based at the Athens EMEA regional office, she will be responsible of all legal matters related to the running of the group, its African offices, and network of partners.

Following the successful launch of our neutral airfreight import product from China to RSA and East Africa earlier this year, we are pleased to announce the kick-off of our new BSA airfreight consolidation programme Ex works Europe or FCA AMS .

In partnership with our consolidation partner N.F.S Airfreight, one of the leading and most recognized neutral airfreight wholesalers and consolidators in EU, we offer MD and LD services on premium airlines, and at competitive rates through our BSA contracts with the carriers. In addition, we offer an innovative EXW Door 2 Airport product from over 15 European countries, under one centralized service center, and a simplified per kilo Europe EXW Tarrif.

 For more information please contact spotrates@aero-africa.com

Service from JNB to MRU and MRU to JNB .

Aero Africa launched its inaugural cargo flight on its new weekly scheduled freighter service JNB/MRU/JNB on the 10th OCT.

The 737F 300 aircraft flew from JNB to MRU with 18 highly pedigreed race horses for the Mauritius Turf Club on a very challenging but very successful night operation, fully compliant with the Air Transport Association (IATA) Live Animal Regulations, with primary objective to ensure the safety of the horses, and returned full with commercial cargo.

We wish to thank our Aero Africa JNB operations team, our partner Star Air Cargo, and our MRU GSA CEL Aviation for their commitment and support on this new service.

Aero Africa join forces with Cosmo Airfreight Consolidators, Korean’s largest air cargo consolidator, aiming to provide neutral air cargo solutions and scheduled consolidation services to the African and South Korean logistics community.

By this initiative, both Cosmo and Aero Africa, are adding valuable services respecting the rising trade and investment links between Africa and Asia. With the prospect of rapid growth in the African Air Freight market, this strategic partnership will allow both sides to provide competitive access to the African and Korean market and will add another milestone in the Aero Africa Gateway concept.

About Aero Africa

Aero Africa is a Hong Kong based air cargo management group committed to delivering neutral African logistic air cargo solutions to the global freight forwarding and aviation community. 

info@aero-africa.com

About Cosmo Airfreight Consolidators

Cosmo Airfreight Consolidators Ltd. established in 1989, is based in Mapo area in Seoul. Strategically located in the heart and birthplace of Korean air cargo industry.

Since then, more than 28 years saw the rapid growth of CAC becoming the largest air cargo consolidator expanding worldwide together with more than 500 customer agents.

cosmo@cosmoair.com

Aero Africa, the Hong Kong based air cargo management group, is proud to announce the appointment of James Cameron as Director Product Development, Southern Africa.

South Africa born Jay Cameron comes with more than 10 years of International Experience in the Airfreight Wholesale Industry. He joins Aero Africa after spending more than 10 years with Neutral Wholesaler CFR Freight SA (Pty) Ltd. He was instrumental in assisting CFR Airfreight Division to become a top 10 IATA Cargo Agent working with various Freight Forwarders and Clearing Agents.

In his new position as Aero Africa’s Director Product Development Southern Africa, Jay will be based in Johannesburg and responsible for developing the airfreight consolidation products and scheduled cargo service into the region, as well as monitoring and overseeing all shipments to and from Southern Africa.

Jay has a valued image and reputation in the marketplace, both within the Freight Forwarding, Wholesale and Airline marketplace, with extensive knowledge and expertise of the industry.

“We would formally like to welcome Jay to the Aero Africa team, I have had the privilege of being Jay’s client over the last few years and his service level to his clients us unbelievable. Jay, we know will fit into the Aero Africa mould as he has set the bar extremely high to continue in his journey as our Director of product development in Africa. Jay has a wealth of experience that he brings to our business and we really look forward to the opportunity of working together.” says Jade Da Costa, CCO Africa

Juergen Anwander, Germany based General Manager adds: “We as Aero Africa are proud that, despite of the difficult times we all face, an experienced and well reputed person like Jay is strengthening our management team in Southern Africa. With his experience and knowledge, he will definitely help us to move Aero Africa to the next level.”

Aero Africa is a Hong Kong based air cargo management group, dedicated to providing African logistics solutions and neutral value-added services to the International Logistics and Aviation community .

African continent has been forgotten by carriers and cargo agents during the C-19 crisis, as most of the air cargo capacity is planned for Europe and the Americas . During the recent crisis, neutral air cargo solutions provider Aero Africa, assisted various freight and clearing agents from all Africa to move over 200 tons of time critical PPE goods ex China .

Aero Africa teamed up with NAP members and managed full and part charter loads into Southern and East Africa ,and moved time critical shipments into North & West Africa in-transit via EU .

Jade Da Costa, CCO Africa says  :

“In partnership with leading carriers ,GSAs and neutral air cargo brokers globally, we offer logistics companies exclusive scheduled cargo services and main deck solutions from our gateways in China , EU and Middle East , to more than 60 hard to reach destinations in Africa. Our main focus is on cargo from Asia and the Americas, as these markets have lack of space during C-19 crisis and limited main deck capacity directly into Africa .

During C-19 crisis, we extended our airline brokerage and charter solutions to include new carriers and transit gateways from those already available.

With selected trusted air cargo professionals in each African airport, we offer bespoke cost-effective solutions in 84 airports. This includes freight collect, A2D, DDP, neutral break-bulk, time critical, project air cargo, as well as final mile solutions, including services to remote difficult to reach destinations, all through Aero Africa’s single point of contact, control, and management.“

Aero Africa is a Hong Kong based air cargo management group, dedicated to providing African logistics solutions and neutral value-added services to the international logistics and aviation community. www.aero-africa.com – info@aero-africa.com

South Africa born Jade Da Costa comes with more than 30 years of international experience in the freight forwarding and aviation industry and extensive knowledge of the African markets and cultures. He joins Aero Africa from Intraspeed Group where he most recently held the position of Group Director from 2000 to 2020. He was pioneering in setting up African offices in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Rwanda, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, South Africa and heavily involved in various joint ventures throughout the African continent.

In his new position as Aero Africa’s CCO, Jade will be based in Johannesburg and responsible for group’s commercial activities and product development within the African continent .“ Jade is a great personality with an extensive skill set. He brings his experience and a strong track record in achieving substantial growth to the table,” commented Christos Spyrou CEO and founder .“ I am extremely excited with this opportunity in driving these innovative air cargo products into the African continent . I feel with this new venture the sky is the limit “ added Jade Da Costa .

About Aero Africa

Aero Africa is a Hong Kong based air cargo management group, dedicated to providing digital African logistics solutions and neutral value-added services to the international logistics and aviation community. www.aero-africa.com – info@aero-africa.com

Aero Africa welcomes Nina Carcat as the company’s new African network solutions officer and business development for EMEA . Nina comes with 15 years’ experience in international logistics in France, Asia and the West Africa . She will be based at the Athens EMEA office and will be supporting our African operations .

Aero Africa operating a network at over 84 airports, covering all 54 countries, now has now opened a new office in Shanghai, managed by Eric Dong who has extensive experience in the Chinese airfreight market.

Juergen Anwander Director Business Development and Compliance, explains.

“In partnership with 20 carriers, we offer logistics companies exclusive scheduled cargo services and main deck solutions from our gateways in EU, UAE, JNB, NBO, to more than 60 difficult to reach destinations in Africa. Our main focus is on transit cargo from Asia and the Americas, as these markets historically have lack of space on 1st sector, limited main deck capacity directly into Africa and much higher end to end rates as a direct through MAWB to Africa.

“In addition, during 2019 we are deploying our exclusive sea air solutions ex Asia for Africa via Jebel Ali, Mombasa, and Durban, as well as express and time-critical solutions tailored exclusively for the African marketplace. We are also extending our airline brokerage solutions to include new carriers and new scheduled consolidation origins from those already available.

Jamie Anderson, Director African solutions adds :

“With selected trusted air cargo professionals in each African airport, we offer bespoke cost-effective solutions for Africa. This includes freight collect, A2D, DDP, neutral break-bulk, time critical, project air cargo, as well as final mile solutions, including services to remote difficult to reach destinations, all through Aero Africa’s single point of contact, control, and management.

“We have also developed a customized e-platform destination profile note for each country/airport in Africa which also includes hard to reach remote destinations in Africa and is exclusively available to our freight forwarding, consolidators, and airline clients alike.

Aero Africa is an air cargo management group dedicated to providing African logistic solutions and neutral value-added services to the international logistics and aviation community.

For more info please contact

Contact
Juergen Anwander
info@aero-africa.com
www.aero-africa.com

Recently launched Aero Africa is a neutral air cargo and aviation solution provider that is dedicated to the freight forwarding community.

It provides wholesale African logistic solutions and value-added services to the global industry, including freighter operators, wide-bodied scheduled and charter operators. African Solutions Director, Jamie Anderson, explains the company’s unique advantages.

“With our network of partners covering 84 airports throughout Africa, and working exclusively with freight forwarders, Aero Africa provides a comprehensive range of destination services including DAP/DDU/DAP, remote final mile and cross border movements, all through a seamless single point of management.

“The Aero Africa gateway programme delivers an end-to-end air cargo solution from key markets, via strategic gateways to more than 70 hard to reach destinations across Africa. Our global reach and product deployment have been expedited through to our membership of the Neutral Air Partner. Thanks to this membership we have connected with CSAs, GSAs and neutral consolidators worldwide, each one of these representing and promoting the Aero Africa product portfolio in their local markets.During 2019 we will introduce further initiatives, including an all-inclusive per kilo DAP/DDU destination tariff, CEIV accredited delivery programme and Africa port based sea-air solutions”.

Aero Africa is an air cargo management group committed to delivering neutral African logistic air cargo solutions to the global freight forwarding community.

Christos Spyrou Founder & C.E.O presented Aero Africa’s solutions and its innovative products recently at the Neutral Air Partner’s global meeting in Asia . Aero Africa aims to cover 84 airports throughout Africa with own offices and specialized partners covering and working exclusively with freight forwarders . Aero Africa provides a comprehensive range of destination services including DAP/DDU/DAP, remote final mile and cross border movements, all through a seamless single point of management.

“The company targets to open regional centralized service centers in Africa , Europe , Asia and Middle East with in 2019 and by 2020 will launch it’s digital airfreight rate portal offering instant and competitive rates from major global gateways to over 70 hard to reach destinations in Africa . It also aims to set up joint ventures in East , Central and West Africa and launch neutral import wholesale services to the forwarding community “ stated Spyrou .

Juergen Anwander is appointed as General Manager

German born Juergen Anwander with an extensive 30 years’ experience in aviation and freight forwarding in Germany and in Asia, has been appointed as the General Manager of Aero Africa based in Munich . Anwander will be responsible for the overall management , the air freight consolidation products into Africa, as well as the digital rate portal implementation.