Cosco-Skyserv Sea-Air Handling Platform to Facilitate Cargo Transport

Piraeus port manager Cosco Shipping Lines has entered an agreement with ground handling services provider Skyserv for the launch of a platform set to be operational next week which will facilitate transport of incoming cargo via Athens International Airport.

The memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed on Wednesday, aims to minimize the time required for freight air transfer following arrival at Piraeus, and foresees the creation of a platform that will simplify the transport procedure, including less red tape. The combined transport service meanwhile will be VAT exempt.

The platform is expected to boost the volume of incoming goods. Hong Kong-based shipping giant Cosco and Greece’s Skyserv are working on the full development of the combined cargo (sea-air / air-sea) handling platform as well as on a series of innovative services that will ensure transport of goods to and from any destination across the globe, making Greece a European hub for air freight.

The goal is to expand the platform through the open participation of all interested parties seeking to increase the volume of air cargo from, to and via Greece. Cosco’s plans for Piraeus include boosting container volume by 35 percent by 2018.