Air China has appointed Kales Iceland as General Sales and Service Agent (GSSA) for Iceland, to be responsible for cargo sales, customer service and operational support, ahead of the airline’s new air link between Beijing and Keflavík via Copenhagen.
The service will commence on 26 October 2026 with three weekly frequencies with Airbus A330-300 aircraft configured for passenger and cargo. The new route will increase air freight options between Iceland and China and provide more opportunities for businesses involved in international trade.
Icelandic exporters, particularly those of fresh seafood and other time-sensitive products, could do with another link to Chinese markets. Meanwhile, importers are expected to be able to use an upcoming air service that could improve connectivity with Chinese suppliers and facilitate the movement of goods.
The agreement will see Kales Iceland supporting Air China’s cargo business in the Icelandic market, working with local freight forwarders, exporters and importers to increase the airline’s commercial presence and provide operational support.
“The appointment builds on the group’s existing relationship with Air China in Iceland,” said Adam Gunnarsson, Vise President at Kales Group. He also emphasized the common interest in the quality of service and long-term cooperation of the companies.
“Better air links between Iceland and China could bolster trade and commercial ties,” said Raffaele Manna, Managing Director of TVG-Zimsen. Kales Iceland also wants to be part of the opportunities that the improved connectivity will bring, he added.
Kales Iceland is a joint venture between TVG-Zimsen, a subsidiary of Eimskip, and Kales Group B.V. The purpose of the company is to provide neutral General Sales and Service Agent services to international airlines in Iceland.
The partnership brings together TVG-Zimsen’s expertise in the Icelandic market and its relationships with Kales Group’s airline representation expertise and network on an international level.
Kales Group, founded in 1994, has 79 offices in 38 countries and represents over 70 airlines. TVG-Zimsen is part of the Eimskip-group, and offers forwarding and logistics services in Iceland.
The appointment comes as Air China prepares to step up its presence in Iceland with the launch of a new Beijing-Keflavik route, offering a further possible conduit for cargo flows between the two countries.
