Air to Road: Wymap Group Bridges the Gap with Isuzu FVY

In a country as vast and diverse as Australia, seamless transport integration is essential for a resilient supply chain.

While airfreight makes up a small portion of total freight volume, it's the preferred mode for moving high-value, time-sensitive cargo such as pharmaceuticals, perishables, and electronics. On average, airfreighted goods are valued at $115,000 per tonne, compared to just $1,000 per tonne by sea.

Wymap Group is a key player in this space, specialising in aviation logistics that link airside operations with road transport. Since 1981, Wymap has grown from a small operation into a business with more than 800 employees and 170 assets servicing every federally controlled airport in Australia and New Zealand.

“We remain one hundred per cent Australian-owned and operated, which allows us to work independently with not just the airports but also airlines and cargo specialists,” said Peter Howie, Wymap Group General Manager – Commercial.

“Forty-four years in the business means that we are a trusted entity in this crucial area of logistics; a reliable partner in the supply chain, whether it be local, interstate or international freight movement.”

The company’s freight-forwarding facilities are strategically located to transfer cargo from aircraft containers directly onto trucks—and vice versa—enabling smooth movement between air and road.

Wymap’s vehicles are specifically built to accommodate airfreight containers and utilise Hydraroll floor systems, just like those used in aircraft.

“The Hydraroll system allows operators to efficiently move airfreight boxes and pallets, ensuring safe placement while being locked into place,” explained Mr Howie.

“It is a system used airside and allows straightforward freight movement on and off the Wymap vehicle to the freight loaders airside.

To expand this capability, Wymap recently added six new Isuzu FVY 240-300 Auto trucks to its fleet—five in Sydney and one in Perth. With additional units arriving through 2025, Isuzu vehicles will soon make up more than 24 per cent of the company’s fleet.

The FVY 240-300 Auto offers a 24,000 kg GVM and is powered by a 7.8-litre Isuzu turbo diesel engine delivering 981 Nm of torque at 1,450 rpm.

It's paired with a six-speed Allison 3500 automatic transmission, designed for both low-speed precision and high-speed cruising. In terms of supporting high-value or heavy cargo, the FVY’s rear Hendrickson airbag suspension floats a comfortable 18,100 kg capacity at ground level.

"The Isuzu FVY was an easy choice, as it meets all our operational needs, and the brand provides first-class support from fleet coordination to dealership service, "said Mr Howie.

With rigorous schedules and changing demands, Wymap values vehicles that are reliable, safe, and easy to operate. Isuzu’s six-year factory warranty, technical support, and comprehensive parts network only add to the appeal.

Drivers, too, are on board.

“In our business, we must have a vehicle that does the job, includes all the safety elements, and is reliable to meet fluid schedules.

"Feedback has been very positive on everything from comfort through to ease of driving," Mr Howie noted.

"We run a mix of freight vehicles, and Isuzu’s consistency helps streamline our driver training and transitions."

Safety is paramount, both on public roads and airside. The FVY’s built-in passive and active safety features, including low light capable reverse cameras, are a welcome addition in complex airport environments where multiple vehicles, aircraft, and personnel operate simultaneously.

These safety systems protect not only Wymap’s drivers—their most valuable asset—but also safeguard the equipment and cargo under their care.

“Out on the regular roads, safety is important. Go airside, and there is a whole range of vehicles and aircraft on top of that.

"With so many moving parts on the tarmac and access roads, you need all the safety features you can get, including low light reversing cameras, which are a must.

“Our vehicles have to be compliant, and Isuzu well and truly ticks that box for Wymap and its employees.

Ultimately, the move over to Isuzu supports Wymap’s requirements to deliver freight quickly, safely, and efficiently. In this business, quality can speak volumes.

"Yes, we’re a customer of Isuzu, but more importantly, we’re here to serve our customers," Mr Howie said.

"And that means investing in the best tools for the job."