The Asian taste for variety in fruit and vegetables is widening. Perishables have become big business for many airlines. Some have even set up special divisions to deal with this kind of cargo. About 40 per cent of its cargo from the southwestern US and Hawaii is perishables, according to regional manager, Jim Trabucco. Only the volume and intensity changes.
Cherries command the most transpacific volume.
This year, however, the cherry season proved disappointing. Poor weather conditions affected the quality of the first harvest, resulting in a heavy drop in demand in Japan. US exporters are eager to expand the list of perishables flown to Asia. Ken Severn, president of the Washington State Fruit Commission, said he sees excellent potential for white fleshed peaches and nectarines, products which have been targeted solely at domestic market. While much of this growing tide flows from North America's west coast, Mexico is gaining ground.