2009年-世界发展银行全球_Air_Freight___A_Market_Study_with_Implications_for_Landlocked_Countries_115页_4mb

Summary of "Air Freight: A Market Study with Implications for Landlocked Countries"

Core Content

This report by the World Bank provides an in-depth analysis of the air freight market, focusing on its implications for landlocked countries. It outlines the current state of air freight operations, cost structures, service types, and case studies that illustrate how air freight can support economic development, especially in regions with limited access to sea ports.

Main Points

• Role of Air Freight in Landlocked Countries:
  Air freight is essential for landlocked countries due to its ability to bypass land transport limitations and provide access to international markets. However, the expansion of scheduled air cargo services is limited unless these countries become significant exporters.

• Demand for International Airfreight:
  Air freight is typically more expensive than road and sea transport, but it is used for high-value and time-sensitive goods. The demand is constrained by the small volume and low value of goods shipped by landlocked developing countries, leading to higher inbound freight rates and reduced cargo volume.

• Types of Air Freight Services:
  The report identifies three main types of air freight services:

  • Combination Carriers: Use passenger aircraft for cargo (belly cargo) and may use chartered freighters during peak times.
  • All-Cargo Airlines: Specialize in transporting goods exclusively.
  • Integrators: Combine air and land transport to facilitate global trade.

• Cargo Airport Operations:
  Cargo airports handle receiving, delivering, and inspecting cargo, as well as customs clearance. Modern airports are investing in larger cargo terminals and cargo villages to improve efficiency and reduce dwell time.

• Operating Costs and Efficiency:
  Fuel costs now account for about half of the operating costs for cargo and passenger aircraft. Fuel efficiency and load factors significantly influence freight rates. The report highlights the importance of optimizing aircraft usage and reducing empty legs to improve cost efficiency.

• Case Studies:
  The report includes several case studies showing the role of air freight in the export of perishables, electronics, and other goods:

  • Cut Flowers: A major export from Africa and Latin America, especially from Kenya and Ecuador.
  • Seafood: High value and time-sensitive, requiring cold chain logistics.
  • Electronics: Used for both sample exchanges and bulk shipments.
  • Air Express Services: Critical for small-volume, high-value goods.

• Challenges and Opportunities:
  Landlocked countries face challenges such as long and uncertain clearance procedures, unreliable land transport, and limited infrastructure. However, air freight can be a viable option for non-traditional exports, especially those with short shelf lives or requiring fast delivery.

Key Information

• Cost Considerations:
  Air freight rates are generally 4-5 times higher than road transport and 12-16 times higher than sea transport. Rates are based on marginal cost and service level, with higher rates for charter services due to increased distance and limited capacity.

• Efficiency and Infrastructure:
  Efficient air freight operations depend on streamlined customs procedures, modern inspection equipment, and well-designed cargo handling and warehousing facilities. Modern warehouses include loading docks, temperature-controlled rooms, and bonded storage for high-value goods.

• Future Outlook:
  The future of air freight in landlocked countries is dependent on generating sufficient traffic to attract regular services. Liberalizing access to international markets (open skies policy) and improving infrastructure are key steps towards this goal.

• Strategies for Landlocked Countries:
  Landlocked countries can benefit from air freight by:

  • Diversifying their export portfolio with high-value, time-sensitive goods.
  • Utilizing hybrid services that combine air and road transport.
  • Investing in modern cargo facilities and infrastructure to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

• Conclusion:
  Air freight plays a vital role in global trade and can be a critical enabler for landlocked countries to access international markets. The report emphasizes the need for policy support, infrastructure development, and efficient operations to fully leverage air freight's potential for economic growth and trade integration.

Annexes and References

The report includes several annexes that provide detailed data and references:

• Annex A: Additional tables on growth projections and commodity distribution.
• Annex B: Convention on International Civil Aviation.
• Annex C: Cargo aircraft information.
• Annex D: Operating costs.
• Annex E: Fuel efficiency.
• Annex F: Freight forwarders.
• Annex G: Air Cargo Village.
• Annex H: Shelf life for fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Annex I: Air freighters through time.
• Bibliography: List of references and sources.

Figures and Boxes

The report includes various figures and boxes that illustrate key points:

• Figures: Show trends in air cargo traffic, market share, and commodity distribution.
• Boxes: Highlight specific examples like the Africa-Europe round trips and the role of air freight in the cut flower market.

Summary

The World Bank's report underscores the importance of air freight in supporting trade for landlocked countries, especially in the context of global economic challenges. It provides actionable insights for improving cargo operations, reducing costs, and enhancing competitiveness through strategic use of air freight services.