American Airlines Cargo launches operations in New Zealand

American Airlines Cargo today launched a daily nonstop service between its Los Angeles hub and Auckland, New Zealand.

The new route will connect traffic through Los Angeles to over 200 destinations in North and Latin America. Thanks to the fuel-efficiency of the Boeing 787 aircraft, AA Cargo will be able to reach this new international location directly. The Auckland route is part of the company’s efforts to expand operations in the Pacific, including other new routes to Haneda and Sydney.

Managing Director, Cargo Sales – West, Joe Goode, commented positively on the development, saying: “Our teams at LAX and in the Pacific have been especially excited for the launch of the new 787 service to New Zealand. We look forward to a strong demand on the cargo front between AKL and LAX, and anticipate additional demand beyond New Zealand into Australia using our interline partners.”

On its debut journey out of Los Angeles, America’s freighter aircraft is carrying a variety of perishables and other consolidated freight, and will return from Auckland carrying medical supplies and mining machinery. Reportedly, some of the most common commodities shipped into and out of the region include e-commerce goods, perishables, horticulture products and chilled fish and meats.

Complementing the company’s existing role for the carrier, American Airlines has appointed GSA Cargo Service as its sales agent in Auckland. Menzies Aviation will provide ground handling services for the carrier, with freight reception through its cargo central facility.