LATAM Cargo increases cherry exports from Chile by over 30%

LATAM Cargo concluded 2023 with exports of approximately 7,546 tonnes of cherries from Chile, representing a 32 percent growth compared to the previous year.

The company inaugurated the 2023-2024 season with the first shipment of Chilean cherries departing from Santiago in mid-October on one of LATAM's planes to New Zealand, later transported to China through interline agreements, the release added.

“Chile leads in cherry exports in South America, and LATAM Cargo plays an essential role, transporting 30 percent of the total volume by air,” says an official release. “The majority of cherries, around 90 percent, are destined for Asia for Chinese New Year celebrations while a smaller proportion is directed to other markets such as the United States and Brazil.”

LATAM Cargo added 19 weekly frequencies from Santiago dedicated to cherries. The company also added a new cargo aircraft temporarily to its fleet to provide more capacity for cherries and the upcoming high season for flowers, bringing the total number of aircraft to 20 and allowing the company to increase the offered capacity for cherries compared to the previous year, the release added.

"In response to a challenging season, we have implemented flexible measures, adjusting both flight frequencies and destinations,” says Claudio Torres Faini, SVP, Commercial, South America, LATAM Cargo. “This has not only allowed us to offer our customers a greater variety of alternatives but has also generated growth opportunities, especially in the U.S. market."