Ariana Airlines Expands Cargo Services to Support Afghan Traders

Ariana Afghan Airlines announced an expansion of its cargo operations to support Afghan traders. In December alone, the airline transported nearly 396,000 tons of commercial goods along with passengers.

According to the airline, cargo is currently being shipped to eight countries, with ongoing efforts to begin operations to Central Asian and European countries.

Ezatullah Zaki, spokesperson for Ariana Afghan Airlines, stated: “We plan to launch passenger and cargo flights to Central Asian countries once new aircraft arrive. Given the high cargo volume in December, we hope the addition of cargo aircraft will further boost this capacity in the future.”

The airline emphasized that the acquisition of new aircraft is aimed at expanding services and preventing spoilage of traders’ goods.

Regarding the purchase of new charter aircraft, the spokesperson said negotiations have been held with the UAE, China, and Turkey, with some discussions nearing final stages.

Zaki added: “Although aircraft prices are currently very high, we aim to purchase planes that can be used for two to three decades. Prices range from $25 million to $45 million, and we are trying to acquire planes suitable for both cargo and passenger transport at reasonable rates.”

Given that Afghanistan is a landlocked country, some economic experts consider the development of air links, especially for cargo transport, crucial to boosting exports.

Economic analyst Abdul Nasir Rashtia noted: “Lower transportation costs can certainly benefit the country’s economy. However, if transportation becomes too expensive and we cannot compete in global markets, more attention must be paid to land routes.”

This comes after trade between Kabul and Islamabad was halted and several trade routes with India were closed, prompting increased reliance on air cargo. Previously, Ariana Afghan Airlines leased a dedicated cargo aircraft for six months to operate between Kabul and New Delhi.