GEORGE TOWN: Cathay Pacific’s new B747-8 will enhance the competitive edge of its commercial cargo segment, which has been affected by the global economic crisis.
Cathay Pacific country manager (Malaysia & Brunei) Mandy Wu said the air cargo freighter segment had experienced a slowdown since late last year.
“In the first half of 2012, Cathay Pacific business was significantly affected by the high price of fuel, weak cargo demand and pressure on passenger yields.
“To better compete in Malaysia, we are using the B747-8 freighter, a bigger capacity and fuel-efficient aircraft, from Penang,” she told a press conference after welcoming the arrival of the B747-8 freighter at the Penang International Airport.
Shot in the arm: Cathay Pacific’s B747-8 touched down in Penang yesterday. The large freighter will service major international cargo routes from the island. – Bernama
Also present were Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng and Cathay Pacific Penang manager Cindy Tse.
“The freighter will fly from Penang, via Hong Kong, servicing major international cargo routes,” Wu added.
She said the freighter would greatly improve the efficiency and payload of Cathay Pacific’s ultra-long-haul freighter services, particularly on North American routes, and at the same time reduce the environmental impact of its operations.
“The new freighter’s technological innovations, including the advanced engine and use of composites and lighter alloys, will lead to significantly reduced fuel consumption and emissions.
“The aircraft also has a noise footprint some 30% smaller than its predecessors,” Wu said.
Currently, Cathya Pacific has 10 Boeing 747-8Fs on order with six already in operation.
On the rising cost of fuel, Wu said the situation was being monitored. “We will adjust our fuel surcharges should oil prices continue to rise,” she added. – By David Tan
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