Hactl helps Cargolux pass its latest milestone
Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) has welcomed the world’s very first B747-8F scheduled commercial flight into Hong Kong, with the arrival of Cargolux flight number CV8923 on 16 October 2011.
The 134-tonne capacity aircraft flew from its home base in Luxembourg with the westbound routing Hong Kong – Baku – Budapest – Luxembourg. Cargolux will now operate the new aircraft to Hong Kong four times a week.
Cargolux is the launch customer for the new freighter; its first B747-8F (registration LX-VCB) was immediately followed by a second aircraft with registration LX-VCD. Cargolux has firmed orders for a further 11 of the same aircraft type.
The B747-8F is 5.6m longer than the B747-400F. As a result, it has 16% more cargo volume, and offers seven extra pallet positions. The B747-8F has a longer range and a reduced noise footprint, enjoys reduced fuel burn, creates lower carbon emissions.
Cargolux and Hactl have a 35-year history of collaboration: the airline was one of Hactl’s first customers when it opened its doors in 1976. Hactl provides a one-stop-shop cargo handling service for Cargolux freighters including physical cargo handling, air cargo documentation, ramp handling, crew bus services and road feedering into and out of the neighbouring Pearl River Delta region.
Says Matthew Ma, Vice President, Head of Asia & Pacific, Cargolux Airlines International S.A.: “We are delighted to be the launch carrier of the new aircraft type demonstrating Cargolux’ dedication in fleet investment for our customers. We are very happy to share this latest milestone in our history with our long time friends and partners at Hactl. The B747-8F landed in Hong Kong was the first commercial stop, after Luxembourg in the entire Cargolux network. This signified Cargolux’ long term commitment to the Hong Kong cargo industry. The B747-8F is going to enhance efficiency of the Cargolux network and flight operations, representing crucial sustainability in challenging markets.”
Adds Lilian Chan, Executive Director of Hactl: “It’s a great honour to be the first handling agent outside Cargolux’s Luxembourg base to turn round this exciting new aircraft. Its extra capacity is very noticeable for us as handlers. We congratulate Cargolux on yet another first in their distinguished history, and wish them every success with the launch of their enhanced services to and from Hong Kong.”
