Australian air Express (AaE) will today launch its state-of-the-art B737-300 freighter aircraft from Cairns, bringing with it a new era in reliable, quiet and time efficient freight services to the people of Far North Queensland.

At 18.10 this evening the first of the AaE B737-300 flights will take off from Cairns airport on its route linking Cairns, Townsville and Brisbane to all major capitals.

The B737-300 is unique to AaE, the aircraft newly converted and specifically fitted for optimum freight usage from its previous incarnation as a Qantas passenger aircraft.

Speaking about the new aircraft, AaE General Manager, Commercial (QLD) John Mason said that the launch of this upgraded freight service reflects a long-held commitment by the company to providing first class commercial freight services to and from the region.

The launch of the B737-300 service linking Cairns and Townsville with Australia’s major capital cities reflects AaE’s commitment to providing the capabilities and equipment to give North Queensland businesses access to reliable, time critical freight services.

This is of particular importance to our customers in the perishable goods industry, for whom the reliability of our services into and out of North Queensland is critical, for example; urgent medical supplies, seafood and other perishable goods and newspapers – as well critical Australia Post mail services. No matter how good these products and services are, if they do not arrive at their destination on time, every time, then we just wouldn’t be doing our job properly,” Mr Mason said.

While the speed, efficiency and reliability of the new B737-300 service provides AaE with a competitive advantage over alternative services, it comes with one additional advantage – the B737-300 is significantly quieter on takeoff and landing, providing the environmental benefits of reduced noise-levels for local residents.

AaE has a history of commitment to the business community in Northern Queensland, working closely with commercial clients to ensure tailored solutions to freight management needs.

AaE employs over 40 people at its Cairns and Townsville depots.

Media inquiries:

Ms Bernadette Collins
Communications Manager
Australian air Express
Tel: 03 8633 3427
Mob: 0417 274 848
Email: bcollins@aae.com.au

Background on Australian air Express:

Australian air Express Pty. Ltd (AaE) is a joint venture between Qantas Airways Limited and Australia Post. The company was formed on 1 August 1992, as a result of the integration of two former businesses – Australia Post Express Courier and Australian Airlines Express (the former freight division of Australian Airlines), which was later purchased by Qantas Airways.

With exclusive access to over 400 daily Qantas and Jetstar passenger flights and our own dedicated freighter aircraft, AaE holds a significant share of the domestic airfreight business, providing airmail, express parcels and airfreight services throughout Australia. Customer access through most Post Offices and an extensive fleet of over 850 courier vehicles support this network throughout Australia.

AaE employs approximately 1,400 professionally trained staff, and continues to maintain the highest customer service standard possible. We are proud to boast the network, resources and people to achieve and continually improve our commitment to total customer satisfaction.

For more information about AaE go to: www.aae.com.au