LATAM Cargo transported more than 15,500 tons of flowers from Colombia and Ecuador during the Valentine’s Day 2022 season. This represents an increase of 16% over the previous season (13,200 tons).
To carry out such a movement, the company doubled its operations between January 17 and February 6. The height of the demand for flowers on the occasion respond to Valentine’s Day, one of the peak seasons for flower exports along with the celebration of Mother’s Day.
LATAM Cargo’s Manager word
«The positive result is due to the collaborative and permanent work we carry out with our suppliers and customers, and reflects the trust they place in us by choosing us as allies in a critical period for their business. These were weeks of intense planning to generate excellent solutions. With the aim that their businesses need in terms of capacity, operation and service was fullfiled,» said Desirée Aramburú, LATAM Cargo’s International Commercial Manager for Colombia and Ecuador.
More than 260 LATAM Cargo takeoffs between Bogota, Medellin, and Quito transported the fresh flowers to the main consumption centers. In Colombia, the supply practically doubled from 28 to 56 frequencies during the high season. This totaled 9,200 tons of flowers – mostly roses, carnations, and chrysanthemums – bound for Miami, from where they are distributed within North America.
In Ecuador, the company nearly tripled its supply, going from 11 regular operations to 30 during Valentine’s Day. This increase allowed it to transport more than 6,340 tons of flowers, especially roses and mini roses, to Miami (USA) and Amsterdam (Netherlands).
«During this year the company will receive three cargo aircraft as part of the growth plan announced for 2021, and although their markets are not yet defined, together with our customers we can project even more auspicious seasons,» concluded Desirée Aramburú.
The company currently has seven Boeing 767-300Fs and four Boeing 767-300BCFs. It expects to receive 10 aircraft between 2022 and 2023, to accompany the attractive movement of goods in the region. Hence, consolidating its position as the main group of freighter operators in South America.
Future plans
The company explained that this will strengthen connectivity from the region to North America and vice versa. Specifically, the connection between Colombia and Ecuador will be strengthened to support the export of the flower sector. The export of salmon from Chile will also be supported. In Brazil, capacity will be increased to and from North America and Europe, promoting both export and import markets.
The 767-300BCF can carry up to 51.6 tons (113,900 pounds) with a range of 3,345 nautical miles (6,190 kilometers).
