DP World receives 1st freighter aircraft at Punta Cana air cargo hub
Air Canada Cargo's Boeing 767F inaugurates weekly Toronto-Mexico-Ecuador-Punta Cana route, enhancing connectivity in the Caribbean.
Air Canada Cargo’s Boeing 767F at Punta Cana air cargo hub, Dominican Republic
DP World announced the commencement of operations at the new air cargo logistics hub in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, a multimodal platform launched in October 2023, with the arrival of the first freighter aircraft.
The inaugural flight was operated by Air Canada Cargo’s Boeing 767F. It has a capacity of approximately 50 tonnes and will serve the weekly Toronto-Mexico-Ecuador-Punta Cana route. The aircraft is designed to transport a variety of goods, including fruits, vegetables, and medical devices, according to the press release from DP World.
Manuel Martínez, CEO, DP World Dominicana, says: “The arrival of this freighter aircraft and the initiation of air operations at our logistics centre significantly enhance the Dominican Republic's competitiveness and connectivity, solidifying its status as the largest trade and logistics hub in the Caribbean.” Martínez further highlighted the advantages of the hub’s proximity to Punta Cana Airport's cargo terminal, which offers cost-effective solutions for cargo from Latin America destined for markets in North America, Europe, and the Middle East.
Frank Elías Rainieri, President and CEO, Grupo Puntacana, adds: “This milestone is crucial for the logistics centre. Our strategic alliance with DP World Dominicana and Air Canada Cargo continues to promote the economic and social development of the Dominican Republic.”
The Punta Cana air cargo hub was created in 2023 as a joint initiative between DP World and the Punta Cana Free Trade Zone (PCFTZ), a subsidiary of prominent Dominican business group Grupo Puntacana.
In its first operational stage, the hub was receiving cargo via land transport and exporting it through the Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ). At present, 60% to 70% of the cargo consists of perishables, primarily fruits and vegetables. The hub also handles a variety of other commodities, including machinery, automotive equipment, and seafood, and specialises in the expedited shipment of goods. Plans are to eventually diversify into the pharmaceutical, technology and e-commerce sectors.
