April 20 - Air charter and aviation support company Chapman Freeborn has seen an "eruption in demand" for charters since the end of last week - including key routes to and from the Middle East, North America and worldwide, says the company.
There has been a large number of charter requests to destinations where there is normally ample scheduled capacity - for example flights from Europe to US hubs like New York (JFK) and Chicago (ORD).
Forwarders and shippers have been requesting and booking flights using airports anywhere in mainland Europe, such as Spain and Bulgaria, even if it means trucking freight far longer distances than would usually be considered.
In terms of the types of freight, the company has seen requests for general cargo, automotive cargo, oil and gas pieces and perishables.
The company considers there is going to be a "huge backlog and high demand for charters" when airspace reopens - including freight like perishables and other time-sensitive cargo. Freighter aircraft availability is going to be a major issue as there was a limited capacity prior to these events, "so clearing the backlog quickly is going to be a challenge for the industry", the company adds.
