German air cargo handling agents have joined forces by establishing a new association called VACAD, Verband der Aircargo Abfertiger Deutschlands, according to the UK's Air Cargo News.

The article said VACAD has 14 founder members that provide air cargo handling services at airports throughout Germany and the association's main function will be to represent common interests toward policy, public authorities and the media.

VACAD will also offer a platform to discuss specific questions of the industry in a solution-oriented way.

Jurgen Vogt, managing director of LHU in Hamburg, has been elected as first chairman. Winfried Hartmann from Fraport Cargo Services and Wolfgang Korte from LUG AirCargo Handling, both from Frankfurt Main, will act as his deputies.