Atlas Air Cargo tracking

What is Atlas Air Cargo?

Atlas Air Cargo is an American air freight carrier founded in 1992 by Michael Chowdry in Purchase, New York. The company has established itself as a major player in global air freight transportation by developing an innovative business model based on the lease of cargo aircraft with crew. This unique positioning in the industry has enabled it to become the world's leading operator of Boeing 747 cargo aircraft, a distinction that reflects its exceptional operational scale.

Atlas Air Cargo's history is one of remarkable growth since its modest beginnings with a single Boeing 747. The company has built its success on the ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance) model, which consists of providing complete cargo aircraft with crew, maintenance and insurance to other carriers or companies needing air freight capacity. This innovative approach has enabled Atlas Air Cargo to win a diverse clientele comprised of airlines, logistics integrators and major companies in global commerce.

As early as 1993, Atlas Air Cargo signed its first charter contract with a major Asian carrier, marking the beginning of its international expansion. The public listing in 1995 provided the capital necessary to develop its fleet and expand operations. Over the following decades, the company experienced several key development milestones, including the acquisition of Polar Air Cargo in 2001, a strategic partnership with DHL Express and the integration of Southern Air in 2016.

• Founding date: 1992, in the United States, with the launch of cargo aircraft lease operations under the ACMI model
• Founder: Michael Chowdry, visionary entrepreneur in the aerospace sector
• Headquarters: White Plains, New York, with a flight operations center in Erlanger, Kentucky
• Parent company: Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, privatized since 2023 following acquisition by an investor consortium
• Employees: Nearly 5,000 employees across more than 70 countries worldwide
• Fleet: Over 100 cargo aircraft, primarily Boeing 747, 777, 767 and 737

Atlas Air Cargo's market positioning is unique. Unlike traditional integrators such as FedEx or UPS that manage the entire logistics chain to the end customer, Atlas Air Cargo positions itself as an air transport capacity provider for these same companies and other industry players. The company does not market its services directly to the general public but operates as an essential B2B partner for global logistics giants.

In January 2023, Atlas Air Cargo made aviation history by taking delivery of the very last Boeing 747 ever produced, a 747-8F bearing the registration N863GT. This symbolic aircraft bears a livery in tribute to Joe Sutter, the legendary jumbo jet's designer, and the words "forever incredible". This historic delivery solidifies Atlas Air Cargo's position as guardian of the Boeing 747's legacy in global air freight.

Which countries does Atlas Air Cargo deliver to?

Atlas Air Cargo operates on a truly global network that spans all continents. The company serves more than 250 destinations across more than 90 countries, covering North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America, Africa and the Middle East. This exceptional geographic coverage enables Atlas Air Cargo to meet the most varied freight transport needs, from regular intercontinental links to one-off missions to less-served destinations.

In the United States, its domestic market, Atlas Air Cargo maintains a strong presence with several crew bases strategically positioned. Anchorage in Alaska, Cincinnati, Chicago O'Hare, Los Angeles, Memphis, Miami, New York JFK, Ontario in California and Tampa airports are all critical operational points for the company. Ted Stevens Anchorage Airport is particularly important as it serves as a crucial transit point for transpacific flights between Asia and North America.

In Europe, Atlas Air Cargo regularly calls at the continent's major air freight hubs. The airports of Liège in Belgium, Luxembourg and Frankfurt in Germany are among the European stops most frequently used by the company. These European cargo hubs provide the infrastructure needed to handle large volumes of goods and enable efficient distribution across the continent.

• North America: Complete coverage of the United States and Canada, with operational bases at major U.S. cargo airports
• Latin America: Regular service to South American markets, with over 100 million kilos of cargo delivered annually via the scheduled network
• Europe: Coverage of major European logistics platforms including Liège, Luxembourg, Frankfurt and Amsterdam
• Asia-Pacific: Strong presence on transpacific routes with regular flights to Hong Kong, Shanghai-Pudong, Seoul-Incheon and Tokyo-Narita
• Middle East: Connections with major regional hubs including Dubai and Doha
• Africa: On-demand delivery capacity to major African destinations

Atlas Air Cargo's operational flexibility is one of its major assets. With no regular public routes under its own brand, the company organizes its flights based on customer contracts and specific freight needs. This approach enables it to adapt quickly to demand fluctuations and open new routes as commercial opportunities arise.

Atlas Air Cargo can also mobilize special charter flights to one-off destinations to meet exceptional needs. Humanitarian operations in case of natural disaster, urgent industrial deliveries or transportation of military equipment are among the missions the company is capable of carrying out to virtually any destination equipped with a runway capable of accommodating its aircraft.

What are Atlas Air Cargo's services and delivery times?

Atlas Air Cargo offers a comprehensive range of air freight transport services adapted to the different needs of its professional clientele. The company stands out for its ability to provide tailor-made solutions, ranging from full charters for large companies to shipping services integrated into global logistics integrator networks. This diversity of services makes it possible to meet all timeline and volume requirements.

The ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance) service is Atlas Air Cargo's historic and flagship offering. In this configuration, the company provides the aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance to a customer who handles fuel and commercial loading. This "wet lease" model allows companies to rapidly expand their air transport capacity without investing in acquiring aircraft. ACMI contracts can be concluded for varying periods, from a few weeks to several years.

The CMI (Crew, Maintenance, Insurance) service represents a variant where the customer provides the aircraft while Atlas Air Cargo handles its operation with its pilots, technical personnel and insurance coverage. This type of arrangement was notably used as part of the partnership with Amazon Air, where certain aircraft owned by lessors or Amazon were operated by Atlas Air Cargo crews.

• Express service with defined deadline: Priority transport for urgent shipments requiring fast delivery with a commitment on transit times
• Standard service: Economical shipping option with more flexible delivery times, suitable for non-urgent shipments
• Ad-hoc charters: One-time lease of a complete aircraft to meet a specific transport need
• Scheduled charters: Regular rotations of chartered aircraft on defined routes for customers with recurring needs
• South America regular service: Network of scheduled flights to South American destinations with over 100 million kilos of cargo transported annually
• Dry lease: Provision of aircraft and engines without crew via the Titan Aviation Leasing subsidiary

Atlas Air Cargo delivery times vary considerably depending on the type of service used, destination and logistics conditions. For express services, delivery can be completed in 24 to 48 hours on major well-served routes. Standard service offers longer delivery times, generally 3 to 7 days for international destinations, depending on distance and any transit stops.

For intercontinental links, particularly on transpacific routes between Asia and North America, air transit times typically range from 1 to 3 days for the flight itself. Total end-to-end delivery times can extend from 1 to 20 days depending on shipment complexity, customs procedures required and organization of ground transport at both ends.

Atlas Air Cargo is particularly recognized for its ability to quickly mobilize additional resources during peak demand periods. During seasonal peaks at year-end or faced with global logistics crises such as that caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the company has demonstrated its ability to intensify operations to maintain global supply chain fluidity.

What are the rates and maximum dimensions accepted by Atlas Air Cargo?

Atlas Air Cargo operates primarily as a B2B provider of air freight capacity rather than as a carrier offering rates directly to individual shippers. Service prices are generally negotiated confidentially with each customer based on business volume, contract duration, routes involved and specific services required. This business approach means there is no standardized public rate schedule.

The factors influencing the cost of transport with Atlas Air Cargo are multiple. The weight and volume of the cargo are the first determining criteria. The distance to be traveled and any stops also impact the final price. The type of service chosen, whether a full ACMI charter, ad-hoc charter or integration into a regular service network, substantially modifies the price level. Finally, the nature of goods transported may result in surcharges for shipments requiring special precautions.

In terms of loading capacity, Atlas Air Cargo has a diverse fleet that can accommodate shipments of all sizes. The Boeing 747-400F, the company's flagship aircraft, can carry up to 124 tonnes of freight over a distance of up to 8,200 kilometers. The main deck can accommodate up to 30 cargo pallets while the lower holds offer additional space for 32 standard LD-1 containers plus bulk cargo.

• Boeing 747-8F: Maximum payload capacity of 134 tonnes with a 20% increase over the 747-400F and 16% reduced fuel consumption
• Boeing 747-400F: Maximum capacity of 124 tonnes, standard ULD container dimensions of 244 x 317.5 x 300 cm
• Boeing 777F: Long range and energy efficiency for intercontinental freight with significant payload capacity
• Boeing 767F: Mid-size aircraft suited to medium-range routes and high frequencies
• Boeing 737-800BCF: Cargo container of 156.2 x 153.4 x 180.3 cm with maximum weight of 1,588 kg per unit, ideal for regional links

Maximum acceptable dimensions depend on the type of aircraft used for transport. The Boeing 747F has a cargo door on the main deck with an opening of 3.4 meters wide allowing the loading of large pieces. This capability makes Atlas Air Cargo particularly suited to the transport of oversized cargo such as vehicles, industrial machinery, construction equipment or aerospace components.

For customers wishing to obtain a quote, Atlas Air Cargo recommends contacting its sales team directly. Cargo charter requests can be sent to [email protected] while requests regarding ACMI/CMI services can be sent to [email protected]. A consultant will evaluate specific needs and propose a suitable solution with personalized pricing.

What are Atlas Air Cargo's delivery options?

Atlas Air Cargo offers several shipping methods to meet the varied needs of its professional clientele. The company's B2B positioning means these options are generally accessible through logistics partners, freight forwarders or integrators who use Atlas Air Cargo services for the air portion of transport. Nevertheless, the company's operational flexibility allows services to be adapted to the specific requirements of each shipment.

Airport-to-airport delivery is the primary shipping method offered by Atlas Air Cargo. In this configuration, cargo is handled at the freight terminal of the origin airport and transported to the cargo terminal of the destination airport. The customer or their handling agent then retrieves the goods to organize final distribution. This method is ideal for shippers with their own ground logistics organization.

For customers seeking an integrated solution, Atlas Air Cargo can organize door-to-door delivery in coordination with ground partners. This comprehensive service handles the package from the origin address, ensures air transport and manages final delivery to the recipient's address. This option, however, requires prior organization and generally takes place within the framework of contracts with regular customers.

• Airport-to-airport: Transport from origin cargo terminal to destination cargo terminal, with customer managing ground operations
• Door-to-door: Integrated service including pickup at shipper, air transport and final delivery to recipient
• Full charter: Lease of an entire aircraft for a single customer, providing maximum flexibility on schedules and destinations
• Consolidation: Grouping of multiple shipments on the same flight to optimize costs
• Intermodal transport: Combination of air transport with ground or sea segments for comprehensive logistics solutions

Shipment tracking is a key element of Atlas Air Cargo's service. Each shipment is assigned a unique tracking number, usually composed of two letters (carrier code) followed by a series of numbers and sometimes a suffix indicating the destination country. This number allows shippers and recipients to check the real-time status of their cargo via online tracking tools.

Notifications and updates are transmitted to customers throughout the shipping process. Information includes confirmation of pickup, flight departure and arrival, customs clearance and cargo availability at the destination terminal. This transparency allows professionals to plan their downstream operations and anticipate cargo arrival.

For shipments requiring special conditions, Atlas Air Cargo has the necessary expertise. Transport of sensitive goods such as pharmaceutical materials requiring cold chain, artwork requiring specific handling precautions, high-tech equipment or live animals is part of the company's capabilities. These special shipments receive special attention and protocols adapted to their nature.

What should I do if my Atlas Air Cargo package is lost or damaged?

In the event of loss or damage affecting cargo transported by Atlas Air Cargo, a structured claims procedure allows shippers and recipients to assert their rights. The company has established an online claims management system that facilitates filing and tracking cases. It is essential to act quickly to preserve your right to compensation.

The first step is to report the problem as soon as it is discovered. Atlas Air Cargo recommends submitting a notice of intent to claim immediately after discovering damage, missing goods or significant delay. This preliminary step preserves your rights for a period of two years. The calculation of the deadline is based on the date Atlas Air Cargo receives the request and not on the date of the letter.

To file a formal claim, Atlas Air Cargo provides a dedicated online portal (e-Claims) accessible via its website. This system allows submission of preliminary claims and formal claims with values. Types of claims covered include total loss, partial loss, damage and delays. The digital process simplifies procedures and allows real-time tracking of case progress.

• Reporting deadline: Immediately upon discovering the problem to preserve claim rights for two years
• Types of claims: Total loss, partial loss, physical damage or delivery delay
• Online portal: e-Claims system for submitting and tracking claims digitally
• Mailing address: Attn: Claims Administration, 1 North Lexington Avenue, White Plains, NY 10601
• Claims phone: +1 914 318 4729
• Fax: +1 914 697 5092

Supporting documents to provide when filing a claim include several essential elements. Proof of transport contract must be established by a copy of the Master Air Waybill and, where applicable, the House Air Waybill. If the claimant is not the original shipper or recipient, a subrogation letter on official letterhead, stamped and signed by an authorized person, is required.

In case of damage, it is recommended to provide a detailed statement precisely describing the nature and extent of the damage. Proof of loss mitigation, such as repair invoices or recovery receipts, strengthens the case. If the cargo had to be destroyed in accordance with local regulations, a destruction certificate is necessary. A report by an approved maritime surveyor may also be attached if available.

Compensation in the event of a validated claim is governed by international conventions governing air transport of goods, notably the Montreal Convention. Standard liability limits apply unless a higher declared value was specified when shipping for an additional fee. It is therefore advisable for shippers of valuable goods to purchase supplemental insurance to cover the full risk.

Does Atlas Air Cargo handle international shipments and customs procedures?

Atlas Air Cargo transports cargo internationally to more than 90 countries on all continents, which necessarily involves managing customs and regulatory aspects specific to cross-border trade. The company has the experience and processes necessary to facilitate customs clearance of goods it transports, in coordination with the competent authorities of each country crossed or of destination.

For international shipments, various documents are required to meet regulatory requirements. The Air Waybill is the fundamental document certifying the transport contract between shipper and carrier. It is governed by the Warsaw Convention and its successive amendments. The commercial invoice detailing the nature, value and origin of goods is also essential for customs clearance.

The packing list specifying the detailed contents of each package facilitates customs inspections and accelerates processing of formalities. Depending on the nature of goods and countries involved, certificates of origin, export or import licenses, sanitary or phytosanitary certificates may be required. Atlas Air Cargo assists its customers in identifying the documents necessary for each destination.

• Air Waybill (AWB): Mandatory contractual document for all international air freight shipments
• Commercial invoice: Detail of value and nature of goods for calculation of customs duties
• Packing list: Precise description of package contents to facilitate inspections
• Certificate of origin: Attestation of the country of manufacture of goods, sometimes required to benefit from preferential rates
• Customs declarations: Forms specific to countries of export and import
• Licenses and permits: Special authorizations for certain categories of regulated goods

Customs duties and import taxes are generally borne by the recipient, unless agreed otherwise between parties. These fees vary considerably depending on destination countries, nature of goods and declared value. Atlas Air Cargo provides the information necessary to customs authorities but does not advance duties and taxes on behalf of its customers except under specific arrangements.

Customs clearance can result in additional delays that should be anticipated when planning international shipments. Document reviews, possible physical inspections and administrative processing of declarations can add anywhere from a few hours to several days to total transit time. Atlas Air Cargo seeks to minimize these delays by transmitting required information in advance to competent authorities.

Certain destinations or certain types of goods are subject to particular restrictions that are essential to know before organizing a shipment. Commercial embargoes, export controls on dual-use goods, dangerous materials regulations or products subject to limited quotas restrict or prohibit certain shipments. Atlas Air Cargo advises its customers to verify compliance of their shipments with applicable regulations before shipping.

Understanding tracking statuses

When you track an Atlas Air Cargo package online, different statuses may appear to inform you of your shipment's progress. These standardized codes in the air freight industry allow you to understand exactly where cargo is located and which stage of the shipping process it is in. Here are the main statuses and their meanings: