Throughout each year, Cargolux carries more than 20,000 tons of flowers from African markets which translates to around four million flowers per flight. This year, the airline experienced such strong demand that it operates a large amount of extra flights in addition to its seven weekly scheduled services. Cargolux delivers the flowers to European markets within 48 hours after they were harvested.

Countries in South America and Africa are increasingly expanding their share of the cut flowers market. Kenya holds 7% of the global market share today. 35% of all sales of cut flowers in the European Union originate from this African country. For Cargolux, this market represents a major part of its African business.

The main destination for Valentine’s Day roses are the Netherlands, but shipments also go to the United States, Australia, Russia and some smaller markets.

With "CV Fresh", Cargolux offers a special product tailored to the special requirements of these perishable goods. Customers appreciate the airline’s excellent, long-standing experience in this area, which is built on expertise, innovation and close personal attention. Boeing’s 747 freighter, with independently adjustable temperature zones, gives Cargolux the ideal tool for long-range flower transports. The airline also uses specialized refrigerated containers as well as sophisticated temperature measuring devices on board of its aircraft. Customers can track the shipment’s condition and ambient temperature of the aircraft at any time, even during the flight.

On the occasion of the International Women’s Day on 8 March, Cargolux will also add additional flower flights out of South America.