Kenya Airways (KQ) and Air Tanzania Company Limited (ATCL) are discussing the possibility of a cargo transportation collaboration that could potentially increase value and reduce operating costs for both airlines. The talks come as ATCL prepares to receive its first 54-ton Boeing 767-300 freighter by the end of this month.
During a recent visit to Tanzania, KQ Group managing director Allan Kilavuka expressed optimism about the potential benefits of the collaboration, citing the availability of freight, equipment, and expertise. He also noted that the presence of ATCL’s new cargo plane and KQ’s Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner would create commercial opportunities.
ATCL managing director Ladislaus Matindi revealed that the two airlines discussed various ways of improving operational effectiveness, including the exchange of knowledge and hands-on training. Matindi emphasized the importance of cooperation in exploiting the large African market for passenger and cargo transportation.
The anticipated cargo jet is expected to carry a range of items, including perishable commodities, general cargo services, chicks and fish, pharmaceuticals, newspapers and magazines, precious cargo, express packages, postal and courier services, hazardous objects, and human remains.
The potential collaboration between KQ and ATCL could bring commercial opportunities and meet the demands of the global market for cargo transportation.