Newly launched Skyway Airlines of the Philippines has appointed Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl)—Hong Kong’s largest independent handling agent—as its official handling partner for its new freighter services to Hong Kong, targeting the booming e-commerce sector.
Hactl will provide comprehensive support to Skyway, including terminal handling, ramp handling, and documentation, ensuring a seamless operation.
Skyway Airlines will commence operations on March 20, deploying its Boeing 737-400 freighters with an 18-tonne capacity on a six-times-weekly schedule—three flights to Clark International Airport and three to Manila. Hong Kong marks the airline’s first international destination.
The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands, presents unique logistical challenges, with domestic cargo traditionally relying on belly-hold capacity in passenger aircraft. However, the rapid rise of e-commerce, particularly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has created an urgent need for dedicated freighter services. Skyway Airlines aims to bridge this gap by connecting the Philippines to one of the world’s busiest air cargo hubs.
Jose Angelo Peralta, President & CEO of Skyway Airlines, emphasized the significance of this milestone:
“Expanding to Hong Kong after securing our Air Operator Certificate has been a major leap for Skyway. The one-stop service support from Hactl has significantly eased the challenges of launching this new service. We look forward to contributing to trade development between Hong Kong and the Philippines.”
Meanwhile, Joanna Li, Executive Director – Commercial and Business Development at Hactl, welcomed the partnership:
“Skyway Airlines is an exciting new venture that addresses a crucial need in the Philippines’ air cargo sector. We are delighted to welcome them to our carrier family, expanding our global connections. We wish them success with their first international service and look forward to supporting their future growth.”
With this new service, Skyway Airlines is set to play a vital role in enhancing trade and logistics between the Philippines and Hong Kong, further strengthening its position in the evolving air cargo market.