Brazil-based Modern Logistics is preparing to put a fourth 737F into commercial service in the coming weeks and plans to add several more narrowbody freighters before the year’s end, company CEO Gerald Lee tells Cargo Facts. Modern is also looking at adding a second fleet type this year, likely freighter-converted ATR 72-200Fs, as it continues to build out its air logistics network.
Since commencing operations in June 2017, Modern has assembled a mixed fleet which now includes two 737-400Fs and a pair of 737-300Fs, the latest addition being a PEMCO-converted 737-300F (24463, ex-Bluebird Cargo), on-lease from KV Aviation. Modern’s existing trio of freighters operates in a mix of scheduled and charter service with scheduled routes out of Viracopos (VCP), Brasilia (BSB), and Manaus (MAO).
Modern sees its growing network of scheduled cargo services and multimodal logistics centers as a potential solution to the shortcomings of road infrastructure in Brazil and, ultimately, an opportunity to boost inter-regional trade. Overland transportation within Brazil takes weeks to connect two cities due to a lack of paved roads and other geographical challenges. Noting the historical volatility with domestic cargo carriers in Brazil, Lee is convinced that a robust and reliable scheduled freighter network, combined with the right mix of road-feeder services, will enable shippers to optimize supply chains and open up markets that were otherwise inaccessible
Although a rarely flown commodity in the United States, motorcycle manufacturer Harley Davidson is one such customer using Modern’s network to facilitate express deliveries from its Manaus factory, to Harley’s twenty-one dealerships across Brazil. The modal shift to air reduces average transit times from weeks to just four days. Modern is currently working to develop solutions for industrial clients in other sectors, such as auto parts and high-end electronics.
Those interested in learning more about trends in freighter aircraft operations are invited to join us Cargo Facts EMEA, to be held 4-6 February at The Westin Grand Frankfurt, where a panel discussion will be dedicated to the topic. To register or for more information, visit www.cargofactsemea.com.
