Santiago, Chile (November 26, 2012): This morning, Joseph A. Czyzyk, Chairman & CEO of Mercury Air Group, Inc., addressed over 100 business leaders in Santiago, Chile as part of Los Angeles Mayor Antonia Villaraigosa’s Trade Mission to South America. The breakfast, held at the Santiago Marriott Hotel, was sponsored by Fruit Exporters Association of Chile, the American Chilean Chamber of Commerce and Hellmann/HPL-Apollo.

Czyzyk, who is the Immediate Past Chairman of the Board of the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce, spoke about his personal ties to Chile, his views as the owner of a business in Chile and as a partner in the newly established produce logistics company HPL-Apollo, LLC. Czyzyk also offered the group an update on current improvements taking place at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

The following are excerpts from Czyzyk’s remarks:

Comments on ties to Chile:

“I first came to Chile in 1986 and I would have never thought that 25 years later I would have the honor of welcoming the President of the Republic of Chile to Los Angeles.

Chile is truly an outstanding Nation. Your country’s sound economic policies, maintained consistently since the 1980s, have contributed to Chile’s steady growth, reduced poverty rates and have helped secure your country's commitment to democratic and representative government.

I am very proud that Mercury’s ties with Chile go back to us providing all ground, fuel and sales services for LAN Chile since their first flight to LA in 1986. In those days, our company charted all of LAN’s flights to LAX before the bilateral aviation treaties were approved by our governments. We have a long history together.”

Comments on owning a business in Chile:

“Mercury Air Cargo Chile has operated in Santiago for the last two years. Representing Asian airlines and our own airline, Mercury World Cargo, we ship over 800 tons annually from Santiago on many international airlines—plus, of course, LAN.

I made the decision to invest in Chile because I see a bright and strong future ahead. Mercury operates in more than 60 locations around the world—in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa and the Americas. I am very confident that Chile will become one of the shining stars on our international map.”

Comments on HPL-Apollo, LLC:

“I’m also pleased to announce that effective November 1st, Mercury’s perishable logistics company, Apollo Freight has partnered with Hellmann Worldwide Logistics to form HPL-Apollo.

This is good news for the Chilean export market as HPL-Apollo will provide an even stronger bridge to international markets, especially to the western U.S. and Asia.”

Comments on LAX:

LAX is the 3rd busiest airport in the U.S. and the 6th busiest in the world. LAX is America’s #1 Origin and Destination airport. And great things are coming for LAX, a truly world class Airport.

For international passengers, The Great Hall, currently under construction as part of the new Tom Bradley International Terminal, will provide a phenomenal experience. Among other electronic displays will be a 40 foot high “bon voyage” wall to wish passengers a safe and pleasant journey. There will be more than 7,000 square meters of new retail concessions and 9,700 square meters of new premier lounges. Two upper levels or terraces will feature first class airline lounges and fine dining restaurants with spectacular views.

And LAX is not stopping there. There is a new $438 million Central Utility Plant too.

And while the new Tom Bradley International Terminal will be among one of our Mayor’s greatest accomplishments, he is also going to make sure that LAX’s North Runway is moved to accommodate the newest generation of aircraft. And that’s important because LAX today has 6 daily A380 flights and more A380, 787s and 747-8 flights are coming.