Newly-launched Air Belgium has appointed Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) to handle cargo for its new long-haul service between Brussels and Hong Kong.

Air Belgium commences twice-weekly services on June 4, using A340-300 passenger aircraft with approximately 14 tonnes’ cargo capacity per flight. It has chosen Brussels South (Charleroi, CRL) as its hub, as the airport does not suffer from congestion.

Hactl will provide the airline with full terminal handling and documentation services in Hong Kong.

Says John Cooper, Cargo Manager of Air Belgium: “Cargo will play an important role in generating revenue on this new route, and we are delighted to be working with Hactl, whose impressive handling resources, and complementary road feeder capabilities, will enable us to maximise our market opportunities.”

Adds Hactl Executive Director Vivien Lau: “We welcome Air Belgium to the Hactl carrier family. Their innovative business model provides an interesting new option for cargo moving into Europe’s logistics heartland from Hong Kong and China. We look forward to supporting this new venture with premium quality handling and ancillary services.”

Air Belgium has established its Cargo Sales office within Hactl’s South Office Block.