TNT boosts international capacity between Asia and Europe

From 18-Sep-2009, non-stop flights will operate between Hong Kong and TNT's European air hub in Belgium which will allow for seamless connectivity with TNT's leading air and road network for delivery throughout Europe. Hong Kong will host Gala launch event to mark the occasion and the arrival of the new 747.

The new B747 freighter service from Hong Kong reflects TNT's commitment to investing and growing in Asia. With its geographical and economic proximity to the Pearl River Delta and its central location in Asia, Hong Kong is a natural choice as a hub for serving customers in the south of China, but also in neighboring countries like Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines and Taiwan. It will add to TNT's other Asian international hubs, Shanghai, Beijing, and Singapore.

"With our integrated air and road delivery capabilities in Asia and Europe, we are well-placed to capitalise on the strong trading links between the two regions," said James McCormac, Regional Managing Drector, TNT Asia Pacific. "More importantly, the addition of a dedicated freighter from Hong Kong will ensure our customers, especially those in the high-tech, telecommunications, electronics and fashion industries, become more competitive due to faster factory to market lead times and increasing inventory management efficiency. Our continuous investment in Asia clearly demonstrates TNT's long-term confidence in the region and our continual commitment to raise our service capabilities on behalf of our customers."

The 110 tonne Boeing 747-400 ERF (Extended Range Freighter) offers the lowest tonne-mile cost in the industry. It is also the most versatile carrier for multiple loading capabilities. In February 2007, TNT introduced direct flights from Shanghai to Liege with its first Boeing 747-400 ERF. The plane makes a stopover in Singapore on its way back to China.