Valuables are a high-priced product in air freight, particularly due to costly security precautions to prevent theft or tampering. Experience shows that gold, diamonds, or banknotes do not get lost once an aircraft is airborne. The vulnerable period is during the shipment’s time on the ground, i.e. before takeoff or after landing. Through a comprehensive security concept with coordinated measures, the Calgary, Canada-based carrier aims to eliminate risks and thus offer customers maximum product integrity, assures Kirsten de Bruijn (KdB), Head of WestJet Cargo.
CFG: When exactly will the product be kicked off? And does WestJet Cargo intend to implement it on some selected routes first or across the entire North American network?
KdB: We set our start date weeks ago for January of this year, so from now on, divided into an initial and an advanced phase. Phase 1 encompasses operations at Toronto Pearson International Airport, Calgary International Airport, Vancouver International Airport, and Los Angeles International Airport.
Phase 2 will involve the launch of additional stations, determined by customer demand in the following year. This rollout will occur in stages, beginning with specific North American trade routes and gradually expanding based on customer requirements.
CFG: It can be assumed that the launch of your new product was preceded by a market analysis. So, which of the routes currently served by WestJet in North America, will be the most sought-after for Valuables?
KdB: Major trade lanes for valuable cargo in North America link cities like New York, Toronto, Chicago, and Los Angeles, catering to financial institutions, jewelry, and valuable goods businesses.
CFG: Valuables don’t get lost once an aircraft is airborne; they go missing on the ground. To what degree is warehouse surveillance, data transparency, and monitored acceptance/delivery of valuables part of the security concept of this highly sensitive product?
KdB: WestJet Cargo places significant emphasis on securing valuable cargo both in the air and on the ground, including the entire journey from acceptance at the warehouse to delivery. Safeguarding high-value cargo relies on a combination of technology and precise procedures, including partnerships with security experts and surveillance systems.
Warehouse infrastructure incorporates secure storage protocols, surveillance systems, and third-party oversight to enhance security on the ground.
Valuables are transported separately and securely from the warehouse to the aircraft, addressing vulnerabilities during ground handling.
High-value cargo must be under direct supervision, surveillance, or securely stored throughout its journey.
WestJet Cargo provides the shortest possible tender time and exclusively moves high-value cargo on direct flights.
Security agents closely monitor cargo hand-offs, ensure secure storage, and oversee surveillance.
Meticulous documentation, including cross-checking security seal numbers, is maintained for cargo hand-offs.
Security agents remain vigilant until the aircraft departs to ensure comprehensive protection for valuable shipments.
CFG: Which steps has WestJet Cargo taken to train staff, monitor warehouse areas, etc. Normally, staff is traditionally the most vulnerable issue.
KdB: Security is indeed paramount for this product. WestJet Cargo has implemented rigorous security measures for us and our partners. Staff involved in handling valuable cargo, undergo training to ensure they are well-equipped to handle security protocols. Direct supervision and meticulous documentation are part of the security strategy to minimize vulnerabilities associated with staff.
CFG: Kirsten, thanks for the explanation and good fortune for your new product.
