Two days after Romantic Warrior’s historic victory in the Cox Plate in Australia, the five-year-old Hong Kong gelding embarked on a luxurious journey back home on Cathay Cargo, preparing for the prestigious Hong Kong International Races. The meticulous planning for transporting racehorses by air begins months in advance, encompassing training schedules and quarantine protocols.
Racehorses like Romantic Warrior are flown on the main deck of Cathay’s Boeing 747 freighters, housed in specially designed air stables. The VIP treatment includes attentive care by a stable representative and an attendant, with meals and hydration ensuring the horse’s comfort throughout the flight. This attention to detail cements Cathay Cargo’s reputation as a preferred choice for horse transport, as noted by Chris Burke, MD of global horse transport leader IRT.
Cathay Cargo’s handling of high-profile cargo extends beyond racehorses. During the pandemic, the airline’s cargo division became a lifeline, adapting passenger planes for cargo use. Tom Owen, Director of Cargo at Cathay, highlights the increased visibility and importance of cargo during this period.
Cathay’s cargo division was pivotal in maintaining the airline’s operations during the pandemic, with the establishment of a cold pharmaceuticals room and the launch of Cathay Pharma for temperature-sensitive shipments. This focus on specialized services, as Owen notes, sets Cathay apart in the air cargo industry.
The Greater Bay Area, accounting for a significant portion of Cathay’s cargo, sees a range of items shipped, from electronics to pharmaceuticals. The Dongguan intermodal facility, a new sea-to-air facility, offers an efficient and cost-effective alternative for cargo handling. Dora Yu of Sinotrans Air Freight praises Cathay’s professionalism, recalling a challenging shipment of a massive oil pipe to the U.S.
Cathay’s drive towards digitalization has revolutionized its operations. The introduction of the e-Air Waybill and other technological advancements have streamlined processes and improved efficiency. This forward-thinking approach has garnered industry recognition, including the prestigious “Cargo Airline of the Year” award.
The upcoming World Cargo Symposium in Hong Kong, hosted by Cathay Cargo, will further showcase the industry’s latest trends and developments. As peak season arrives, Cathay Cargo’s diverse cargo handling, from fresh produce to invaluable artifacts, underscores its crucial role in global logistics.
With its innovative practices and commitment to excellence, Cathay Cargo continues to soar in the air freight industry, exemplified by its exceptional transport of racehorses and a wide array of cargo worldwide.
READ MORE: