Several factors in China and Hong Kong during the coming months may have an impact on air freight cost and capacity.

September traditionally sees increased market demand as we approach the last quarter and Golden week. This ‘peak’ has been fairly short over recent years due to the economy. Whilst growth is still not at full speed, other factors may have an influence this year:

Charter Restrictions – Peak demands are often eased through charter capacity in the market. However, effective 23rd August, the Civil Aviation Administration of China suspended approvals to operate additional or charter flights from Shanghai, Pudong, Hongqiao, Hangzhou and Nanjing. This will put pressure on existing capacity in Eastern China and surrounding areas like Zhengzhou.

New Traffic Control System – In October Hong Kong is implementing a new traffic control system. The Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department has asked regional carriers, such as Cathay Pacific, Dragon Air and Hong Kong Express, to reduce their flights scheduled in October and November to assist the introduction. At the same time the available slots for additional flights or charter applications will be severely restricted.

New Product Launches – New product launches are expected from Apple (iPhone7), Asus, Microsoft, Lenovo and others meaning the period leading up to and post Golden week (1st to 7th October) may be challenging from the region.

Uniserve’ s priority will be to support our customer base through this period and to minimise any impact on cost and transit times.

Please contact your local Uniserve representative for further information.

<< PLEASE SHARE THIS STORY ON SOCIAL MEDIA EASILY BY CLICKING THE ICONS TO THE LEFT.