Wataniya Airways, Kuwait's premium service carrier, said ithas witnessed solid growth within one month of its launch of cargo operations. The airliner said it has uplifted over 180 tonnes with only half the networkopen for cargo services.

Wataniya, which operates a A320 aircraft from Kuwait toeight major destinations in the Gulf and the Middle East, aims to build on attracting key players in the air express and perishable market sectors, said atop official.

Finlay McArthur, network cargo manager, said Wataniya Airways' cargo aim is to match and exceed the service levels of its regional competitors. 'In order to maximise the cargo opportunities on our A320 fleet, it is essential that we match the type of cargo carried to the service levelswe offer,' he noted.

'With this in mind we have teamed up with Heavy weight Air Express as Network GSSA who have considerable experience in the kind of serviceand operations we have developed and now offer to the market,' he added.

Unique advantage
McArthur said as a carrier Wataniya has a unique advantagein operating from its own dedicated terminal within Kuwait InternationalAirport.

'This means we can enhance the service levels we offer inorder to add value to our customers supply chain. We intend to build on attracting key players in the air express and perishable market sectors where we can offertailor-made exclusive services.'

The official added: 'With an average of a 45-minute turnaround at most of our network airports, we have developed new working practices and have managed to create a smooth and speedy operation on theground.'