Though FedEx operates approximately 680 of its own planes throughout the world, this is the first time any of its all-cargo aircraft have included a regularly scheduled flight landing in Africa.
“We are proud to be the first location to receive a regularly scheduled flight in Africa. We welcome this tangible indication of optimism and belief in the long-term potential of the South African and African markets,” said Bongiwe Pityi-Vokwana, general manager of OR Tambo International Airport.
“OR Tambo International Airport handled some 380,000 tons of cargo in the 2018/19 financial year. We believe that being a scheduled location will enable us to offer expanded services that will boost our cargo operations.
“We are also pleased to acknowledge the FedEx commitment to modernising its air fleet and reducing its environmental impact by using more efficient and lower emission aircraft. This commitment is very much aligned to our own airport’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions,” added Pityi-Vokwana.
OR Tambo International Airport was earlier this year upgraded to Level 2 (Reduction) status under in terms of the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme administered by Airports Council International (ACI). Airport Carbon Accreditation is the only institutionally endorsed, global carbon management certification programme for airports.
Pityi-Vokwana said the airport looked forward to developing its cargo operations in the next few years through development of its new midfield cargo terminal.
The new cargo precinct will cater for the cargo facilities and support services to enable the handling of 750,000 tons a year. Phase 2 of the cargo infrastructure plan will allow for growth and expansion to accommodate up to 2 million tons a year. The new facility will provide capacity for general cargo, specialised goods, as well as distribution and support services for the air cargo supply chain.
