LATAM Cargo Group will begin weekly freighter flights between Brussels and Sao Jose dos Campos in Brazil from October 2, eliminating transshipment through other gateways and reducing logistics costs, reports London's Air Cargo News.

The Santiago-based carrier plans to double the frequency during the winter season. Each flight is expected to carry around 50 tonnes of cargo, including industrial goods, auto parts and consumer products, with most shipments destined for Sao Jose dos Campos.

Previously, cargo bound for the city had to transit through airports such as Guarulhos or Viracopos before continuing by land. The new direct route will shorten transit times and support LATAM's expansion of 15 additional weekly frequencies between Europe and South America.

Matias Cortina, commercial cargo director for Europe at LATAM Airlines Group, said the new route reinforces the airline's position as the most flexible cargo operator between the two continents. He highlighted Sao Jose dos Campos as a key industrial hub.

The airport lies in the Vale do Paraiba, Brazil's second-largest industrial cluster, near Sao Paulo's main production centres. LATAM also operates a Miami-Sao Jose dos Campos cargo service three times weekly, launched in 2023.

LATAM Airlines Group ranked among the top 25 cargo airlines in 2024, according to IATA. Growth in perishables, pharmaceuticals, automotives and electronics helped boost volumes on the Latin America-Europe corridor.

By the end of last year, LATAM operated 21 freighters, including 767-300Fs and 767-300P2Fs, as part of its strategy to expand capacity and improve service across key trade lanes.