JUPITER SEA & AIR
SERVICES PVT. LTD, EGMORE – CHENNAI, INDIA.
E-MAIL : Robert.sands@jupiterseaair.co.in Mobile : +91 98407 85202
Corporate News
Letter for Thusday October 30,
2025
/// Sea Cargo News ///
PSA Chennai achieves record weekly throughput, surges 45% above capacity
PSA
Chennai has recorded its highest-ever weekly throughput, handling 34,425 TEUs—a
significant jump from its usual weekly average of 24,000 TEUs. This milestone
marks a 45% surge over the terminal’s designed capacity, demonstrating
exceptional operational agility.
The
achievement is a strong testament to the dedication of the PSA Chennai team and
the terminal’s ability to flex capacity in response to customer demand,
reinforcing its position as a key gateway for India’s maritime trade.
Port of Antwerp-Bruges faces vessel backlog following strike
Congestion
at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges has disrupted oil deliveries after a
strike by harbour pilots left nearly 190 vessels waiting to berth or
depart. The disruption, which began earlier in October, has affected one
of Europe’s key energy hubs.
According
to Reuters, the backlog stems from industrial action by Belgian maritime
pilots, who halted work in protest over staffing concerns and pay
conditions. Though the strike has ended, the resulting delays have
continued, straining port operations.
The
congestion is affecting vessel schedules, particularly for tankers transporting
crude and refined products, with some operators diverting ships to alternative
ports. Analysts say the incident underscores the vulnerability of port
logistics to labour disruptions. While operations are now resuming, full
clearance of the backlog may take several days.
The
situation highlights the strategic importance of Antwerp-Bruges, which handles
around 230 million tonnes of freight annually, including a significant share of
Europe’s energy imports.
Recently,
Code Rouge planned coordinated protest actions across several European
countries from 10 to 12 October, 2025with potential disruptions expected at the
Port of Antwerp-Bruges.
Maersk diverts two TP7 sailings from Ningbo via South Korea for transshipment
A.P.
Moller–Maersk announced immediate, temporary changes to its trans-Pacific TP7
service: two upcoming voyages will omit the Port of Ningbo, with affected cargo
discharged and rerouted via South Korea.
In
a customer advisory dated 14 October 2025, the company said Potomac Express
voyage 542E “will no longer call Ningbo.” Cargo bound to or via Ningbo will be
discharged at Busan and delivered to final destinations through Maersk’s
existing network. Exports from Ningbo to the United States will load on
Maersk Luz and connect to Potomac Express at Kwangyang on 24 October 2025,
“subject to availability and capacity.”
Maersk
said Maersk Kinloss voyage 543E will likewise omit Ningbo: import cargo
intended for or via Ningbo will discharge at a South Korean port and continue
to Ningbo and final destinations via the existing network; exports from or via
Ningbo to the US will move on a shuttle (name to be advised later) for
trans-shipment in South Korea.
“We will be making changes to the TP7 rotation to make sure your supply chains continue to run as smoothly as possible” the company sad, adding it would notify customers ” of further changes”, temporary or long term, to this service, with as much notice as possible”.
Arkas Line launches
weekly direct service to Africa
Arkas Line has launched a new direct weekly service, the Med Africa Service (MAS), connecting ports in the Eastern Mediterranean and Italy with West Africa. The route consolidates the company’s existing Blue Med Service (BMS) and West Africa Service (WAS), streamlining its regional operations.
Previously,
shipments to Africa required transshipment in Morocco. The MAS route removes
this step, reducing transit times and increasing supply chain
reliability.
The
service will cover a broad port rotation, including: Alexandria – Beirut –
Lattakia – Mersin – Aliaga – La Spezia – Genoa – Casablanca – Dakar – Lagos
(Apapa, Tincan) – Tema – Abidjan – Nouakchott – Casablanca – Tangier – Valencia
– Barcelona – Fos – La Spezia – Genoa – Salerno – Alexandria.
Operated
by 10 vessels with capacities between 1,600 and 2,500 TEU, the first departure
is scheduled for October 20, 2025. The launch of MAS represents a shift from
Arkas Line’s former trans-shipment model to a direct service approach for West
Africa. The charge is expected to improve operational efficiency and
predictability across the network.
The
new route maintains continuity on the Levant-Western Mediterranean and
Levant-Casablanca corridors while strengthening connections with African
markets.
It
also supports Arkas Line’s broader objective of enhancing regional trade and
integrating its Africa focused operations into its global service network. In
May, Arkas Line added a second company owned vessel to the USA Express Service
(USX), doubling its capacity on the route.
South
Korean shipping company HMM has ordered a fleet of containerships and very
large crude carriers (VLCCs) worth KRW 4 trillion (about $2.9 billion). As
informed, the order includes a dozen 13,000 TEU sister ships and two
VLCCs.
The
13,000 TEU container vessels, all liquefied natural gas (LNG) dual-fueled,
will be built by HD Hyundai Heavy and Hanhwa Ocean. As decarbonization
regulations from the IMO and EU continue to strengthen, LNG is viewed as one of
the most readily deployable lower-emission fuels.
According
to Clarksons Research, alternative fuel vessels made up nearly 50% of all
newbuildings ordered last year, with over 70% powered by LNG.
China imposes
sanctions on Hanwha subsidiaries as trade tensions escalate
China has imposed sanctions on five US-linked
subsidiaries of South Korean shipbuilder Hanwha Ocean, escalating trade
tensions with the US.
The
move, announced on 14 October, caused a sharp drop in the company’s share
price. China’s Commerce Ministry announced the sanctions on the same day
both China and the US introduced new port fees aimed at each other’s
vessels, though China made an exception for ships it built, reported
media.
According
to the ministry, Chinese organisations and individuals are now banned from
doing business or cooperating in any way with the affected Hanwha subsidiaries.
“
Hanwha Ocean’s US related subsidiaries have assisted and supported the US
government’s relevant investigative activities, thereby jeopardising China’s
sovereignty, security and developmental interests”, the Ministry said. Hanwha Ocean shares fell 5.8% by market close
following China’s announcement while rival Hyundai Heavy dropped by 4.1%.
Hanwha
said by email that it is keeping a close watch on how the sanctions might
affect its business and said it remains committed to customer support,
“including through our investments in the US maritime industry and via Hanwha
Philly Shipyard”.
South
Korea’s Foreign Ministry said it is assessing the impact of China’s sanctions
and plans to work with China, other ministries and industry partners to reduce
any negative effects.
Earlier
this year, Hanwha announced a $5 Billion investment in Philly Shipyard, which
it bought in 2024 for $100 Million. The move followed
South
Korea’s broader pledge to invest up to $150 Billion in support of efforts to
help the US rebuild its shipbuilding industry. The US, under former President
Donald Trump, has called on allies like Japan and South Korea to support its
effort a shipbuilding sector that has fallen behild China, particularly in
producing warships.
Hanwha’s
main domestic competitor, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, the world’s largest
shipbuilder, is also reportedly in talks to acquire US shipyards, according to
a media report in September. Earlier this August, the US and China agreed to
extend their current tariff suspension till November, delaying steep duty
increases that could severely impact bilateral trade flows and global supply
chains.
ANA and NCA launch cargo codeshare
across Japan-Europe-US routes
The codeshare arrangement sees ANA’s designation applied to NCA’s Boeing 747 services from Narita to Chicago, NY, DFW, LA, Amsterdam, Milan and Frankfurt.
All Nippon
Airways’ and Nippon Cargo Airlines’ freightersSister
airlines All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Nippon Cargo Airlines (NCA) have launched
a codeshare agreement on cargo flights between Japan, Europe and North America.
The new
codeshare agreement began yesterday and sees ANA’s code appear on NCA’s Boeing
747 freighter services from Narita to North American destinations—Chicago,
New York, Dallas/Fort Worth and Los Angeles—as well as European
destinations—Amsterdam, Milan and Frankfurt.
Meanwhile,
NCA’s code will be added to ANA’s Boeing 777 freighter routes from Narita to
Chicago and Los Angeles. ”The collaboration will expand ANA Group’s cargo
network, increase transportation capacity and improve customer convenience by
leveraging the strengths of both carriers’ large freighter operations,” the two
said in a statement.
The move
comes after ANA Holdings acquired 100% of NCA’s shares in early
August from NYK after it decided to exit the cargo airline business.The two airlines’ combined fleet now includes ANA’s passenger
flight network and its fleet of six Boeing 767 freighters and two Boeing 777
freighters, along with NCA’s eight Boeing 747 freighters.
”Looking
ahead, ANA and NCA will continue to strengthen their partnership to enhance the
ANA Group’s cargo business, delivering competitive, efficient and high-quality
services that meet customer needs and support the group’s long-term growth,”
the two carriers added.
The deal
is not the only codeshare agreement completed by ANA in recent weeks. In
September, ANA and Air Incheon began codesharing on freighter services operated between Japan and South
Korea with the aim of enhancing connectivity and meeting growing demand for
cargo transportation in the region.
Global airlines face $11 billion supply chain hit in 2025: IATA
Global airlines are heading for a loss exceeding US$11 billion in 2025, due to widespread supply chain disruptions that are delaying new aircraft deliveries and grounding existing fleets.
According to a new report, ‘Reviving the Commercial Aircraft Supply Chain,’ from International Air Transport Association (IATA) and Oliver Wyman, shortages of labor, materials, and parts are forcing carriers to keep older, less fuel-efficient planes in service, leading to rapidly soaring costs.
The most
significant financial burden for airlines, estimated at US$4.2 billion, comes
from delayed fuel cost efficiency, as airlines are forced to operate older,
less fuel-efficient aircraft that also emit higher greenhouse gases This older
global fleet is also driving up operational expenses with an estimated US$3.1
billion in additional maintenance costs.
Furthermore,
the struggle to get engines repaired is causing a surge in leasing, pushing
excess engine leasing costs to about US$2.6 billion, a figure worsened by a
20-30% rise in general aircraft lease rates since 2019. To cope with
unpredictable parts flow, airlines are also stockpiling spares, contributing an
estimated $1.4 billion in excess inventory holding costs.
This
crisis is compounded by a fundamental shift in the aerospace business model.
Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are now generating a larger share of
their profits from the aftermarket (spare parts, repairs, and maintenance)
rather than initial equipment sales. This matters to airlines because newer,
fuel-efficient aircraft are also more complex to maintain, and component
repairs are often only possible through the OEMs or their networks.
The report
notes that OEMs have limited incentive to develop new, cheaper repair
solutions, often preferring to sell new replacement spare parts, which
increases both costs and lead times for carriers. This is reinforced by
lessors, who own over half the global fleet and often mandate OEM parts and
repairs in lease return conditions, restricting the ability of airlines to use
other approved, cost-saving repair options.
These
pressures originate from fragile supply networks under strain from global
forces. Geopolitical instability has disrupted access to critical materials
like titanium, while trade barriers create friction for cross-border parts
movement.
Material
shortages are slowing production, with materials like aluminium and steel in
tight supply. Commercial airlines are being squeezed as the defence and
business aviation sectors compete for the same materials and engine capacity,
often accepting higher prices and shorter terms.
Adding to
this structural constraint are severe skilled labour shortages, as large waves
of maintenance and technical staff are already approaching or entering
retirement. The combination of these factors has created deep supply challenges
that the industry cannot quickly resolve.
Etihad Cargo expands freighter network for winter 2025
season
Etihad
Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Etihad Airways, is expanding its
freighter network for the Winter 2025 season with new routes and additional
flight frequencies to meet rising demand across major trade and manufacturing
markets.
The move
enhances key trade corridors spanning Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, while
further positioning Abu Dhabi as a central global logistics hub connecting East
and West.
A
highlight of the new schedule is the introduction of a dedicated freighter
service to the United Kingdom, with two weekly flights to East Midlands, one of
the UK’s most active freight hubs. The route, which began on 27 October,
connects Abu Dhabi directly to the UK’s primary distribution network for both
domestic and European deliveries.
In Asia,
Etihad Cargo is expanding its capacity in major production markets with
additional services to Shanghai, Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and Ezhou. This growth
coincides with the carrier’s participation in Air Cargo Southeast Asia (ACSA)
2025, underscoring its commitment to deepening its footprint in the region and
opening new opportunities for exporters and businesses.
Further
network enhancements include extra weekly freighter flights to Riyadh, Paris
Charles de Gaulle, and Frankfurt. These increases aim to support growing cargo
volumes and offer customers greater flexibility and reliability throughout the
peak winter period.
The
expanded freighter schedule complements Etihad Airways’ recent announcement of
16 new passenger destinations to be launched between November 2025 and March
2026, connecting cities such as Addis Ababa, Algiers, Almaty, Baku, Bucharest,
Chiang Mai, and others. Stanislas Brun, Chief Cargo Officer of Etihad Airways,
said, “Every shipment represents a connection that matters.
As we
enter the busy winter period, increasing our network capacity and introducing
new trade routes means giving our customers more ways to move their goods with
reliability and care. Through this strategic expansion, we hope to continue
empowering businesses and communities to thrive.”
Etihad
Cargo’s enhanced Winter 2025 schedule reaffirms its role as a key global
connector, offering efficient, high-quality air freight solutions that link
major economic centres. As the airline group grows across new markets, it
remains focused on enabling smarter, faster, and more seamless cargo movement
worldwide, building connections that truly go beyond borders.
My Freighter signs interline deal with National Air Cargo
My Freighter Airlines has signed an interline agreement with National Air Cargo. In a LinkedIn post, My Freighter said the new service aims to expand its global network and service capabilities.
This
partnership will enhance connectivity between Uzbekistan, the Middle East,
Asia, Europe, and the Americas, providing our customers with more flexible and
efficient cargo solutions.
The
collaboration marks another key step in My Freighter’s mission to strengthen
global partnerships and position Tashkent as a major regional hub for air cargo
operations.
“We look
forward to working closely with National Air Cargo, renowned for its on-demand
ad-hoc cargo charter services and comprehensive end-to-end logistics support
through its network and partnerships division,” My Freighter said in the post.
Singapore: A strategic air cargo hub
According to the DHL Global Connectedness
Report 2024, Singapore was ranked as the most globalised country in the world.
With Changi Airport at its heart, the city-state is rapidly evolving from a
regional gateway into a future-proofed logistics powerhouse focused on
high-value and time-sensitive cargo.
Changi Airport moved 2.01 million tonnes of air freight in 2019, before the pandemic triggered a sharp contraction. By 2022, volumes had recovered to more than 1.5 million tonnes between January and October, alongside 170,000 aircraft movements—53 per cent of pre-Covid levels. The rebound accelerated through 2023 and 2024, with cargo driven by semiconductors, e-commerce, and pharmaceuticals.
In Q2
2025, Changi handled 516,000 tonnes of airfreight, marking a 6.2 per cent
year-on-year increase and signalling a return toward, and in some segments
beyond, pre-pandemic performance. Growth in imports, which rose 8 per cent
compared to Q2 2024, underscores sustained demand across key supply chains.
"Operating
at Changi demands the highest standards of excellence and performance."
Henry Low, SATS Record cargo volumes and strategic location In 2024, Singapore
processed nearly two million tonnes of air cargo, driven by strong growth in
electronics, pharmaceuticals, and cross-border e-commerce shipments.
Lim Ching
Kiat, Executive Vice President for Air Hub & Cargo Development at Changi
Airport Group, notes, “Changi Airport saw a notable 15% year-on-year growth in
international air cargo throughput in 2024, making us the ninth largest air
cargo hub globally by international air cargo tonnage.
In the
first eight months of 2025, Changi Airport’s air cargo tonnage saw an increase
of 4% year-on-year with growth across all cargo flows.” These volumes make
Singapore the ninth-largest international air cargo hub by tonnage worldwide, a
significant achievement for a city-state of its size.
From
January to August 2025, Changi handled 1.35 million tonnes of cargo, an
increase of 53,000 tonnes from the 1.3 million tonnes recorded in the same
period in 2024. The city-state’s location at the crossroads of major East-West
and North-South trade routes naturally makes it an indispensable link
connecting Asia Pacific markets with the rest of the world.
Lim
highlights, “Strategically positioned at the intersection of vital global trade
corridors, Singapore’s unique geographical location, coupled with its advanced
manufacturing base, naturally positions Changi as a premier conduit for
intra-Asia Pacific cargo flows, as well as between Asia Pacific and the rest of
the world.”
Singapore’s
air cargo network encompasses around 160 cities through nearly 100 airlines,
including more than 20 freighter operators serving about 45 key destinations.
The network spans major economies such as the US and Europe, as well as
high-growth regions like Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
"The
growth of special cargo is outpacing that of general cargo, and Changi is
investing to meet the unique needs of high-value industries." Lim Ching
Kiat,Changi Airport Group Future-proofing through infrastructure and technology
Beyond location and connectivity, Singapore is aggressively future-proofing its
air cargo sector through expanded capacity, digitalisation, and sustainability
initiatives.
Henry Low,
CEO of SATS Singapore Hub, notes, “SATS Singapore Hub has a clear mission to
strengthen and elevate aviation operations in Singapore. Operating at Changi
Airport demands the highest standards of excellence and performance.
With
Singapore entering a new phase of growth through the upcoming Terminal 5, SATS
is investing S$250 million over the next five years in people, technology, and
infrastructure to future-proof operations and enhance service delivery. This
includes building capacity to handle increased volumes and enhancing
capabilities to manage operational complexity.”
Thai Airways partners with IBS Software
for digital upgrade
Thai Airways International Public Company has chosen IBS Software’s iLoyal platform to digitally transform and modernise its Royal Orchid Plus loyalty programme, marking a major step in the airline’s digital transformation journey.
At the core of this initiative lies IBS Software’s iLoyal platform, designed to create a more personalised, connected, and rewarding experience for Royal Orchid Plus members. The new system will provide a future-ready digital foundation that ensures seamless interactions for members across every stage of their travel journey.
Powered by
advanced artificial intelligence and data-driven capabilities, iLoyal will
enable Thai Airways to strengthen member engagement, design targeted
promotions, and expand opportunities beyond traditional rewards. Its open
architecture will also allow integration with partners in banking, retail,
hospitality, and lifestyle sectors, broadening the overall value of the Royal
Orchid Plus programme.
“Thai
Airways understands the power of loyalty in driving meaningful customer
relationships,” said Marcus Puffer, Head of Loyalty Solutions at IBS Software.
“With iLoyal, we will help future-proof Royal Orchid Plus, enabling Thai
Airways to deliver the digital-first experiences today’s travellers expect.”
Adding to
this, Gautam Shekar, APAC Region Head at IBS Software, said, “As loyalty
expectations evolve across the APAC region, Thai Airways’ selection of IBS
Software reflects our commitment to helping airlines transform into digital
retailers. Thai Airways is an iconic carrier, and we are proud to support their
journey of innovation.”
Kittiphong
Sansomboon, Chief Commercial Officer at Thai Airways, emphasised that
strengthening the airline’s loyalty programme is a key priority. “This
investment marks a significant milestone in our digital transformation journey,
focusing on the programme’s ‘Power of Plus’ — Plus Value Propositions, Plus
Members, and Plus Revenue to transform Royal Orchid Plus to be future-ready and
to continue supporting THAI’s business growth,” he said.
The
implementation of IBS Software’s iLoyal platform highlights the company’s
growing leadership in airline loyalty solutions across the Asia-Pacific region
while underlining Thai Airways’ strategic focus on embracing digital
technologies to enhance customer experience and drive future growth.
I hope you have enjoyed reading the above
news letter.
Robert Sands
Joint Managing Director
Jupiter Sea & Air
Services Pvt Ltd
Casa Blanca, 3rd Floor
11, Casa Major Road,
Egmore
Chennai – 600 008.
India.
GST Number :
33AAACJ2686E1ZS.
Tel : + 91 44 2819 0171
/ 3734 / 4041
Fax : + 91 44 2819 0735
Mobile : + 91 98407
85202
E-mail : robert.sands@jupiterseaair.co.in
Website : www.jupiterseaair.com 1Branches : Chennai, Bangalore,
Mumbai, Coimbatore, Tirupur and Tuticorin.
Associate Offices : New
Delhi, Kolkatta, Cochin & Hyderabad.
Thanks to : Container News, Indian Seatrade, Cargo Forwarder Global & Air Cargo News.
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