CEVA Logistics has contracted 86 freighter flights to keep supply chains running and prevent production lines from closing down between Asia and the US as the coronavirus pandemic continues.

In a statement, it said both eastbound and westbound charters deliver parts and supplies to its customers across multiple destinations and vertical markets.

The majority of eastbound flights originated in Shanghai or Hong Kong and were destined for Chicago, CEVA said. A smaller number of flights were bound for Amsterdam, Bangkok, Brussels, Chennai, Dallas, Rickenbacker, Rockford, Sao Paulo, Singapore and Tokyo.

Meanwhile, eastbound and other charters included east midlands to Bangkok, Hong Kong and Brussels, Hanoi to Singapore, and Hong Kong to Tokyo.

CEVA Logistics noted that its customers are mainly in the automotive, aerospace, computer and hi-tech electronics sectors.

"The charters are designed to prevent production lines from stopping and to provide urgent stock replenishment for those which could not otherwise be supplied," the Swiss logistics company said.

CEVA said it has already been able to move more than 4,700 tonnes of airfreight to date.

More than 58 flights have already been completed, with an additional 28 to come over the coming seven weeks and many others to follow if necessary.

“Working extremely closely with our customers, we have been able to deliver a robust charter programme to adapt to these difficult circumstances. Acting in close collaboration with the rest of the CMA CGM Group, we are striving to offer fast and accessible alternatives to our clients throughout the world in order to help keep the global economy moving,” said Guillaume Col, CEVA Logistics’ chief operating officer.