American Airlines has seen its cargo ton miles (CTM) fall by 2.6 per cent year-on-year (YOY) in May compared to May 2014.
The airline says CTM was 199.6 million in the month, a decline on the 204.9 million recorded in May last year. This was the third consecutive month that CTM has fallen, as in April it fell YOY by 2.4 per cent to 191.9 million. In March, it saw a YOY fall of three per cent to 206.2 million.
February is the only month so far in 2015 where CTM has risen, when it climbed YOY by 1.8 per cent to 176.5 million. In January, CTM fell YOY by 1.9 per cent to 170.5 million. For the first quarter of 2015, CTM dropped YOY by 1.2 per cent to 553 million.
American Airlines also announced that it will start operating the Boeing 787-8, which it says has benefits to customers as it has 28 positions for cargo and will provide the carrier with significantly more cargo space.
The airline says the aircraft contains loftier aft and bulk doors for loading larger shipments, as well as the capability to carry up to 1,000 pounds (454 kilogrammes) of dry ice, which it says is a critical component in the shipment of high-value pharmaceutical and perishable goods.
The carrier explains that the aircraft will open up new markets for the movement of cargo. American Airlines started operating the Boeing 787-8 from Dallas Fort Worth International to Buenos Aires International Airport on 2 June, and to Beijing International Airport on 4 June.
It will also be operated from Dallas Fort Worth to Shanghai Pudong International Airport from 26 June and from Chicago O’Hare International Airport to Narita International Airport from 18 August.
American Airlines Cargo president, Jim Butler, says: “With the addition of the 787, we are able to more effectively utilise our growing network and continue in our efforts to expand our reach.
“The efficiency of the aircraft allows us to offer more air cargo opportunities, while simultaneously reducing our carbon footprint and enhancing the customer experience.”
In quarter one of this year, American Airlines saw cargo revenue fall by 5.9 per cent to $194 million. This came despite overall profit increasing by 94.2 per cent to $932 million.
