Flowers make the world go round. At least for the week leading up to February 14, 2024.
American Airlines Cargo said that it delivered more than 1.2 million pounds (454,000 kilograms) of flowers just in time for Valentine’s Day 2024.
The flowers were mainly from Europe and Latin America during the February 1 to 10, 2024 period, bound for different destinations worldwide.
From Europe, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) was the top origin of flowers in 2024, with tulips being the most common export.
During the 10-day peak, American Airlines Cargo moved fresh flowers from AMS to London-Heathrow (LHR) via truck. The shipment then traveled on the airline’s widebody network to the United States.
The top destinations for the Dutch blooms include:
- Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
- John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- Miami International Airport (MIA)
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)
“Moving perishable shipments is one of our specialties, thanks to our extensive global network and skilled operations and sales team members around the world,” Indy Bolina, Head of Global Sales for American Airlines Cargo said in a press statement.
Bolina added: “We are proud of the role we play in moving fresh flowers for Valentine’s Day each year and are especially proud of the success we saw during this peak season with volumes exceeding 1.2 million lbs.”
According to American Airlines Cargo, Valentine’s Day is the most popular day for flower deliveries, followed by the Emperor’s Birthday in Japan, Easter, Mother’s Day in the US and Europe, All Saints Day, US Thanksgiving and Christmas.