As industry stalwart Paul Cheetham transitions from the position of managing director to becoming Freitan’s non-executive vice chairman, Freight News caught up with him to find out his insights on the future of the airfreight sector.Few could have predicted the rollercoaster ride of the past few years and its profound impact on the airfreight sector, but as business normalises once more, the industry is poised for a notable growth trajectory.For Cheetham, there is a lot to be excited about in the African airfreight sector. “The African and Middle East airfreight market is set to experience exponential growth in the near future. Following a rapid recovery from the impact of Covid-19, the region is expected to witness steady and constant expansion, outpacing the growth rates seen in other parts of the world.”This, says Cheetham, brings huge opportunity for airfreight operators. While the sector continues to adapt to new demands, it also needs to position itself for sustained growth and innovation.According to Cheetham, who was introduced to the airfreight sector in the 70s, air cargo has seen some dynamic shifts in recent years. “Today’s challenges must be viewed against the backdrop of constantly evolving technology and the global turmoil and uncertainty that prevails and pervades the world of logistics,” he says. “The modern logistics professional needs different skills to those that sufficed in yesteryear. Today, and for the future, managing risk and financial exposure is paramount. An understanding of technology, an ability to read and understand financial statements, to be aware and adept at dealing with contractual obligations and the onerous legal requirements in an ever more regulated world are very necessary.”Success, he maintains, will depend on the ability to navigate change with agility and foresight.
