From the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, partners in Ontario’s air cargo supply chain took decisive action to keep goods moving, ensuring the essential flow of supplies and goods. As Canada’s primary source of air cargo, Pearson has seen significant air cargo activity as businesses work to deliver supplies. The airport community--including airlines, ground handlers, freight forwarders and logistics companies--has reacted swiftly, as partners transition aircraft movements and airfield operations to prioritize freighters carrying medical equipment, perishable foods and pharmaceutical product.
On April 6, 2020, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) and Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) convened leaders from the air cargo supply chain and business community for a virtual roundtable with Victor Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade to discuss the importance of air cargo and supply chains to the COVID-19 response.
This call was followed by a second discussion on June 26 led by the GTAA and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce (CCC) and attended by Minister of Transport, Marc Garneau. Leaders from multiple aspects of the air cargo supply chain participated, including airlines, airports, trucking and freight forwarders.
The GTAA and its air cargo partners are committed to supporting the continued end-to-end success of Canada’s supply chain. Collaborating with government will help to create the roadmap for recovery, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
The feedback from these leaders has been used to identify challenges that, when resolved, will empower Ontario’s transportation and logistics industry to create even more effective supply chains throughout the province. This continued flow of goods will keep Ontario’s residents supplied at home and on the frontline in the fight against COVID-19. It will also allows business to keep moving, creating economic stability that prepares us for economic recovery.
However, Ontario’s supply chain is extremely complex and the demand on this network for goods and material has never been higher. In this period of high demand, there are still challenges that need to be addressed with the help of government partners and chambers of commerce that represent businesses. To learn more about how government and industry can collaborate to maintain and strengthen Ontario’s supply chain, read the full report on the Ontario Chamber of Commerce website.
