Chapman Freeborn group expands presence in Canada with GTA partnership

Oct 24, 2018: In a recent move to expand presence in Canada, the Chapman Freeborn group has launched a new partnership with Canadian company GTA Air Solutions to further enhance both companies’ reach in the cargo charter market.

The new partnership will provide Canadian customers with enhanced access to international charter solutions, while further strengthening Chapman Freeborn’s existing coverage in North America.

As Chapman Freeborn’s representative in the Canadian market, GTA will give local clients access to cargo charter services on a global basis – from heavy and outsize shipments in support of Canada’s energy and mining industries to time-critical movements of automotive cargo and pharmaceuticals.

Additionally, regular updates of availability of Chapman Freeborn’s subsidiary company, Magma Aviation’s fleet of B747-400F aircraft will be shared with Canadian forwarders.

GTA will also promote Chapman Freeborn’s specialist on board courier (OBC) division which offers comprehensive hand-carry solutions for time-critical shipments worldwide via its three global hubs on a 24-hour basis.

Mississauga-based GTA Air Solutions is headed by CEO and chairman Mario D’Urso who brings a wealth of air cargo expertise and long-term relationships to the partnership. In an aviation career spanning 20 years, Mario D’Urso has established and grown several successful companies, including GTAdnata World Cargo – the leading cargo and ground handling operations provider in the heart of Toronto Pearson International Airport.

Joining Mario D’Urso in the management of GTA Air Solutions is chief operating officer Brian Potvin, a highly-experienced professional with 13 years in the industry. Before joining the GTA group in 2016, he spent eight years with Kelowna Flightcraft working as a pilot and later heading business development and sales.

Russi Batliwala, CEO of Chapman Freeborn said: “GTA is a business with its roots firmly in Canada, and they are ideally placed to help us extend our reach in this market.”