BRITANNIA AIRWAYS, the world's largest holiday-passenger charter airline, is attempting to boost its revenues with an aggressive entry into the cargo business, taking advantage of the belly-hold capacity of its Boeing 767 and 757 fleet.
The airline believes that there is a vast unexplored market from the Mediterranean Basin, for fresh fish, fruit and vegetables in particular, offering shippers the opportunity to serve ten regional UK airports directly, avoiding costly trans-shipment through the London hubs.
From just $500,000 in 1990, the carrier's cargo revenue has grown to $3 million in 1995, with a sharp rise since full liberalisation in Europe in January 1993.
Although this figure still represents less than 1% of its total turnover, the airline intends to develop its market presence, throwing down a challenge to the established operators.
Source: Flight International
