TNT EXPANDS ITS FLEET, OFFERS MORE TRANSPORTATION CHOICE TO EXPORTERS

       The inauguration of TNT's new dedicated aircraft yesterday will give Thai exporters more choice in cargo transportation.
       "We can offer our clients, especially those relying on exports of automotive, electronics and electronics parts, to have more choice through the combination of our road network in Asia and air network", said Alan Miu, managing director of TNT Express Worldwide (Thailand).
       As TNT yesterday kicked off a new dedicated B747-400ER freighter service between Hong Kong and Europe, it reflected its commitment to investing and growing in Asia.
       James McCormac, regional managing director of TNT Asia Pacific, said that it was well-placed to capitalise on strong trading links between the two regions with its integrated air and road delivery network in Asia and Europe.
       The new aircraft will not only serve customers in South China, but also in neighbouring countries like Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines and Taiwan. TNT will now be operating two dedicated freighter aircraft, providing freight and express delivery services between Europe and Asia.
       The B747-400ER, which provides non-stop flights, operates between Hong Kong and TNT's European air hub in Liege, Belgium. The existing one - B747-400ERF - will travel between Europe and Shanghai via Hong Kong. The two aircraft are capable of carrying up to 110 tonnes with the lowest tonne/mile cost offering. Currently, TNT has a fleet of about 40 aircraft.
       "The freighter from Hong Kong would ensure our customers, especially those in hi-tech communications, electronics and fashion industries, can become more competitive due to faster factory-to-market lead times and increasing inventory management efficiency," said McCormac.
       He added: "Our continuous investment in Asia clearly demonstrates TNT's long-term confidence in the region."
       TNT Asia Road Network recently expanded into Cambodia. The network now links 127 cities across six countries - from Singapore to China - and stretches across more than 7,500 kilometres.