Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), a SATS company, has strengthened its partnership with Cathay Cargo through new long-term cargo handling contracts at Portland International (PDX) and Dallas Fort Worth International (DFW) airports. This expansion builds upon WFS’ established cargo handling services for Cathay Cargo at Boston (BOS), Houston (IAH), and Los Angeles (LAX), along with ground handling operations it provides for Cathay Cargo at New York (JFK) and Houston. Operations had commenced on 18 March 2025 at Portland and 15 April 2025 at Dallas Fort Worth, with WFS providing comprehensive cargo handling services that will further enhance operational capabilities and service excellence for Cathay Cargo and its customers across the Americas.
This strategic expansion coincides with Cathay Pacific’s upcoming launch of direct passenger flights connecting Hong Kong and Dallas on 24 April 2025. Operating four times weekly, these flights will significantly enhance cargo capacity between these two cities. These flights will complement Cathay Cargo’s established freighter operations to create an integrated logistics solution that delivers improved efficiency and greater shipping options for North American customers.
“We’re excited to strengthen our successful partnership with WFS across the Americas, building on our outstanding collaboration in Los Angeles, Houston, and Boston,” said Cathay Director Cargo, Tom Owen. “This expansion provides customers access to WFS’s modernised cargo terminal in Portland and dedicated warehouse space in Dallas Fort Worth, complemented by our new four-times-weekly passenger service launching in April. Together, we’re delivering a seamless one-stop air cargo solution that enhances both service quality and our operational presence across South Central USA. Through this extended partnership, we’re combining WFS’s ground expertise with Cathay Cargo’s global network to deliver world-class cargo services. Our shared commitment to integrated systems, innovative processes, and joint safety and sustainability initiatives enables us to provide customers with superior solutions while upholding the highest operational standards throughout our growing Americas network.”
Michael Simpson, CEO Gateway Services, Americas at WFS, said: “WFS is delighted to expand our longstanding relationship with Cathay Cargo to include Portland and Dallas Fort Worth. These new contracts build on our proven track record for delivering exceptional cargo handling services for Cathay Cargo in key cities in the United States, from coast to coast. Our teams are fully prepared to implement the specialised handling processes and performance standards that Cathay’s cargo operation demands. We look forward to delivering exceptional value through our commitment to operational excellence, safety, and time-critical handling that Cathay and their customers rely on.”
The new agreements further strengthen WFS’ position as a preferred cargo handling partner for leading global airlines and demonstrates its commitment to expanding its presence in strategic North American cargo markets.
SATS and team win May Day commendations
SATS and its President and Chief Executive Officer, Kerry Mok and President of SATS Workers’ Union (SATSWU) Brother Poobalan A Kumarasamy have been recognised with May Day 2025 Commendations by the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC). The awards acknowledge SATS Ltd’s steadfast commitment to progressive workplace practices, strong tripartite collaboration, and a long-standing focus on championing workers’ welfare.
The May Day Commendations, presented during NTUC’s annual May Day celebrations, honour companies and leaders who have shown exceptional dedication to workforce transformation, fair employment practices, and the well-being of workers. SATS Ltd and Kerry Mok have been specifically recognised for their impactful contributions to improving the working conditions, welfare, and prospects of employees.
Under the leadership of Kerry Mok, SATS has implemented a range of innovative initiatives, including upskilling programmes, inclusive employment opportunities, which has enhanced operational productivity with the aid of AI-powered solutions. These initiatives are a testament to SATS’ commitment to fostering a dynamic and inclusive workforce, positioning the company as a competitive employer in an ever-evolving economic environment.
“SATS is committed to creating an environment where our talented employees can develop to reach their full potential and grow with the company,” said Kerry Mok, President and CEO of SATS Ltd. “This recognition reflects our team’s efforts to building a thriving future. We will continue to invest in upskilling and reskilling our workforce to remain resilient and competitive. Together with our union partners, we will continue to foster a supportive work environment to drive success for both our employees and SATS.”
As part of this recognition, SATS Ltd was conferred the prestigious Plaque of Commendation (Gold). This award is given to companies within the Labour Movement network that have not only received previous commendations but continue to demonstrate significant contributions to advancing the Labour Movement’s objectives, especially in the areas of improving workers’ wages, welfare, and work prospects (3Ws). Kerry was conferred with the Medal of Commendation and Poobalan was conferred the Comrade of Labour (Star).
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