SOUTHERN California Logistics Airport (SCLA) near Victorville, some 40 miles east north east of Los Angeles on the edge of the Mojave Desert, is gaining international interest as a dedicated link to airports in Canada and Europe, says the assistant city manager.
    SCLA, also known as Victorville, has resurrected hopes to become an air cargo hub since trade has picked up following recession, said assistant city manager and director of SCLA Keith Metzler, aided by its work with aviation consultant Claasen Group International.
    "The goal has been in place really since SCLA started," said Mr Metzler, it's distinct advantage from competitor Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is in speed of handling. "We're dramatically quicker," he added.
    Though Victorville will face a challenge in luring traffic from more congested Los Angeles International Airport, Mr Metzler believes SCLA lack of restrictions for perishable goods and expensive equipment is attractive for customers.
    The Claasen Group hopes to gain traffic from confidentiality agreements already in place with a number of companies, said its owner Johan Claasen, which would in turn benefit his maintenance and repair company based at SCLA, of which he is chairman and CEO and generate employment to the airport.
    The Victorville city council will vote on the airport's agreement with Clausen shortly and should it be approved the company will have exclusive rights to negotiate a deal for the next six months, with the option to extend for an additional six.

(source:shipping online)