Brussels, Belgium—Aug. 22, 2012—Brussels Airlines, the flag carrier airline of Belgium and Star Alliance member, converted its entire baggage container fleet to new lightweight composite containers, in partnership with ULD management provider CHEP Aerospace Solutions.
An increasing trend among many major airlines, the move to lightweight containers is driven by the need to save on fuel costs and the desire to reduce the CO2 impact within the industry.
“CHEP Aerospace Solutions, previously operating as Unitpool, has been our ULD management provider for more than 10 years,” confirmed Stijn Verbeeck, Cargo Handling Manager, Brussels Airlines. “Our decision to renew the contract with CHEP for another five years was based on the excellent service and performance received, thanks to the dedicated teams in Bangkok and their 24/7/365 support. Our decision to change our heavier metal containers to lightweight composite containers was based on achieving projected fuel savings, with the transition being completed in less than four months.”
Brussels Airlines’ decision comes on the back of a renewed five-year contract with CHEP Aerospace Solutions, which globally provides outsourced Unit Load Device (ULD) and galley cart repair, maintenance and management.
“We are extremely pleased to continue our excellent relationship with Brussels Airlines,” said Dr. Ludwig Bertsch, President, CHEP Aerospace Solutions. “Our ability to offer a fast transition to lightweight containers is very attractive to airlines, and Brussels Airlines is one of many who are starting to see the fuel saving benefits of making this change. Combined with the complete outsourcing of the supply, repair, maintenance and management of ULDs, we believe CHEP is best positioned to continue driving cost savings in this area within the industry.”
