Schiphol Cargo and Air Cargo Netherlands: Webinar Air freight post COVID-19: a recap

Schiphol Cargo and Air Cargo Netherlands held a webinar on Thursday June 4th with four air cargo experts giving their thoughts on how the industry will perform post-Covid-19.

ING senior economist Rico Luman, said the global economy has seen a contraction of 4.3% during pandemic with the Eurozone and US the most affected, falling between 7% and 8% - but he forecasted that the air freight industry will bounce back quickly.

Holland International Distribution Council (HIDC) managing director Remco Buurman, said HIDC's members that total 300, have had mixed experiences during the pandemic, but there was a positive attitude towards air cargo and members are hopeful there will be more freighter slots at Schiphol in future.

Buck Consultants International senior consultant Arjen Donkersloot, said the Dutch Government’s Civil Aviation Policy memorandum that comes into operation in 2021, will have a significant impact on air cargo and safety, economic relevance, environment and sustainability will determine the industry’s licences to operate.

Rotterdam Erasmus University aviation researcher Floris de Haan, said freight rates had increased substantially during the pandemic and estimated the industry will return to normal around the globe in different phases, but there is a lot of unknowns and no “crystal ball” for the future.

Watch the full broadcast here

Your questions answered

During the webinar we had also received many questions, which we couldn’t answer unfortunately at that moment due to restricted time. Because we appreciate the high interest, we have decided to share all the questions and answers for you to read.