PrimeFlight Cargo has been appointed cargo handling partner for Alaska Airlines’ new daily service between Seattle and London Heathrow, adding another layer to a relationship that already spans multiple US airports.
Alaska Airlines is scheduled to launch the new nonstop widebody route from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport to London Heathrow on 21 May. At Heathrow, PrimeFlight will support the operation from its X2 Unit facility, where it will provide cargo acceptance, build-up and break-down services, as well as full airside transportation support.
The cooperation is also widening in the United States. PrimeFlight is due to begin cargo handling services for Alaska Airlines at Sacramento International Airport in April, further extending its footprint within the carrier’s network.
For PrimeFlight, the appointment is being presented as another step forward for its cargo division in Europe. Sascha von Wolfersdorf, vice president of operations for PrimeFlight’s Europe business, said the decision reflects growing confidence from airline customers in the company’s operational standards, service quality and customer-focused approach. He added that the cargo operation at Heathrow continues to grow, supported by ongoing investment in staff, equipment and infrastructure.
Headquartered in Texas, PrimeFlight Aviation Services provides a broad range of airport and airline support services worldwide, including cargo handling, fuelling, ground handling, GSE maintenance, aircraft services, deicing, passenger services, terminal support and aviation cleaning.
Its relationship with Alaska Airlines is already well established. Following the acquisition of GAT Airline Ground Support, PrimeFlight provides ground handling services for Alaska at 11 airports, while also supporting cargo operations at Columbus, Milwaukee, Omaha, Ontario, San Diego and John Wayne airports.
Ian Morgan, vice president of cargo at Alaska Airlines, said the airline’s experience with PrimeFlight and GAT in the US has shown the value of working with a partner that understands the business. He added that the airline is pleased to extend that cooperation to Heathrow, where PrimeFlight is expected to deliver dependable and efficient service for customers.
Alaska Air Cargo currently serves more than 100 destinations across North America, Asia and the Pacific, in addition to its operations in London and Rome.
