When prioritizing Next Flight Out (NFO) shipments, airlines consider several factors to efficiently handle urgent cargo. These factors include:
1. Service Level: Airlines carefully assess the service level required by the shipper. NFO shipments often have specific delivery deadlines, and airlines prioritize those with the shortest timeframe or highest urgency.
2. Flight Availability: Airlines consider the availability of flights to the destination requested by the shipper. If multiple flights are available, they may prioritize the NFO shipment on the next available flight that can accommodate it.
3. Flight Frequency: Airlines prioritize NFO shipments based on flight frequency to the desired location. They may choose flights with more frequent departures to ensure faster delivery of urgent cargo.
4. Capacity: The capacity of the aircraft plays a role in prioritization. If the NFO shipment can be accommodated on a flight with limited available cargo space, it may receive priority to secure its inclusion on the preferred flight.
5. Cost: The cost associated with NFO shipments can also influence prioritization. Airlines may evaluate whether the shipper is willing to pay a premium for expedited service or if it is a priority shipment for a high-profile customer.
6. Special Handling Requirements: NFO shipments sometimes require special handling or additional documentation. Airlines may prioritize such shipments to ensure compliance with specific handling procedures or to prevent any potential issues.
Overall, airlines strive to efficiently prioritize Next Flight Out shipments by considering factors such as service level, flight availability, frequency, capacity, cost, and special handling requirements. By carefully assessing these factors, they can ensure prompt delivery of urgent cargo while managing their overall operations effectively.