Mango from Thailand, cocoa from Ecuador or turmeric from Sri Lanka? Yes! These and many other products from the other side of the planet can reach your table thanks to air transport of foodstuffs. However, how do you ensure freshness during transit? The key is to have a forwarder with experience in the sector to ensure the ideal conditions for each stage of the process. With over 25 years of experience, at Nissin Transport GmbH Spain Branch we provide tailor-made logistics solutions to ensure that all products reach their destination quickly, safely, and efficiently. Let’s explore the importance and key aspects of air transport for food.
What are the characteristics of air transport for food?
Air transport for food is the preferred option for the rapid distribution of fresh and perishable products. But what are its features?
Speed
The main advantage of air transport is the drastic reduction in time between the origin and the destination. This is particularly critical for fresh and perishable food, which needs to reach consumers in perfect condition. Speed is essential to avoid spoilage of products like fish and seafood, which have a limited shelf life.
Efficiency
The optimisation of routes and logistics processes ensures that food is kept at the proper temperatures to minimise risks and guarantee quality. Additionally, logistical efficiency includes the coordination of flight schedules and the integration with other transport methods to ensure fast and uninterrupted delivery.
Safety
Lastly, there are strict controls to ensure that food is not compromised during the transport process, such as specific protocols for handling delicate products. Regular inspections are also conducted to guarantee no cross-contamination and compliance with all food safety regulations.
Types of food transported by air
Air transport handles a wide range of food requiring special handling conditions and rapid delivery:
Perishable products
Fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, and flowers are the most commonly transported by air as they require optimal freshness and speed. For instance, exotic fruits, need to be transported in a controlled environment to preserve their flavour and texture.
Frozen and fresh foods
This category includes products requiring a constant cold chain, such as certain cuts of meat and seafood products. The cold chain is especially critical in these cases, as any interruption could affect the quality and safety of the product.
Gourmet or luxury foods
Foods such as caviar, exclusive wines and other gourmet products must maintain consistent quality for international markets. These products often have a high economic value and therefore require special logistical treatment to avoid losses.
Ingredients for the food industry
Finally, this category includes special ingredients or raw materials used in the production of food products that need to be shipped quickly to ensure continuity in the production process. For example, food additives and other essential products for large-scale manufacturing.
What challenges does air transport for food face?
Despite the advantages of air transport, several challenges must be addressed to ensure the process’s success:
Cold chain control
Maintaining a constant temperature is one of the biggest challenges. For example, isothermal boxes with cold packs or dry ice are used. Monitoring with data loggers ensures that food remains in optimal conditions throughout the journey. Sensors that alert any temperature deviation are essential for immediate action to avoid losses.
International regulations
Food safety standards are strict and can vary by country. In air transport for food, the Perishable Cargo Regulations by the IATA (International Air Transport Association) are followed. Additionally, each country may impose its regulations, requiring deep knowledge of the rules to avoid customs issues.
High costs
Compared to other methods, costs can be significantly higher. However, the speed and safety offered by air transport offset these costs for products where freshness is essential. Additionally, avoiding spoilage losses makes air transport the most profitable option in some cases.
Environmental impact
Although air transport has a greater environmental impact compared to other means, strategies such as route optimisation and using more efficient aircraft. Alternative fuels are also being explored to reduce CO2 emissions and make transportation more sustainable.
Frequently asked questions about air transport for food
Here are some of the most common questions about air transport for food:
What are the benefits of transporting food by plane?
The main benefit is speed. Perishable products need to arrive quickly to maintain their quality, and air transport is the best option to achieve this. Speed also allows market expansion and responding to international demand for food.
What factors affect the cost of air transport for food?
Factors such as distance, type of food, need for cold chain maintenance and urgency are determinants of cost. Packaging type and weight and volume restrictions also influence costs.
Which international markets demand the most food transported by air?
In general, markets such as Europe, Japan, and the United States frequently require air shipments of fresh food to meet the demand for gourmet and perishable products. These markets value the quality and freshness of the food and are willing to pay a premium for products that arrive in perfect condition.
Your food logistics in the best hands
Air transport of food is a key solution for ensuring that products reach their destinations in excellent condition, particularly when freshness is essential. At Nissin Transport GmbH Branch in Spain, we are committed to offering customised logistics solutions tailored to the needs of each of our clients, utilising cutting-edge technology and an efficient transport network to guarantee the success of every shipment. We understand that each type of food has unique requirements, and we ensure they are handled with the care they deserve. If you would like to learn more about our services, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you take your products further, with the security and speed your business needs.
