Qatar Airways Cargo, London-based International Airlines Group (IAG) Cargo and Kuala Lumpur-headquartered MASkargo are planning to form a global cargo joint business.
The joint venture is subject to regulatory approval, but when formed, the strategic collaboration will bring together the combined expertise and infrastructure of three leading players in the air cargo industry.
Global cargo alliance formed
By combining their resources, Qatar Airways Cargo, IAG Cargo and MASkargo plan to build a truly connected, more agile cargo network that will address the evolving needs of global trade and logistics.
It will enable the carriers to enhance existing service levels across the global air freight market and create significant customer benefits, including a streamlined product offering, enhanced connectivity, faster transit times, and new routing opportunities across their combined extensive networks.
The airlines are also jointly working on developing industry-leading harmonised safety and security standards for their customers.
Qatar Airways Cargo serves more than 60 freighter destinations and 170 passenger destinations utilising freighters and belly-hold passenger aircraft. It has a freighter fleet of 28 Boeing 777 freighters and 230 bellyhold planes.
Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, commented: “Today marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to redefine the global air cargo landscape. This agreement will bring together three strong players to offer unparalleled service and global connectivity, reinforcing our commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence.”
IAG Cargo was established in 2011 following the merger of British Airways World Cargo and Iberia Cargo. It is now a EUR1,234 million (US$1,406 million) business covering six continents, following the integration of Aer Lingus, Vueling and LEVEL.
David Shepherd, Chief Executive Officer at IAG Cargo, added: “This agreement is a testament to our history of bringing businesses together. With years of experience in forging successful collaborations, we understand the real value they bring.
“This joint business not only unlocks choice and opportunities for our customers but also enhances connectivity for the businesses and industries they serve, further strengthening the role air cargo plays in facilitating global trade.”
MASkargo, the cargo division of Malaysia Aviation Group, has a network of more than 100 destinations and is the cargo terminal operator in 11 airports throughout Malaysia, serving 40-plus carriers.
Mark Jason Thomas, Chief Executive Officer at MASkargo, said: “This strategic collaboration marks a pivotal moment for MASkargo and the air cargo industry. We are excited to partner with Qatar Airways Cargo and IAG Cargo to deliver a new era of value and innovation to our customers.
“By leveraging our combined strengths and expertise, we will provide enhanced service offerings, expanded global reach, and cutting-edge solutions that address the evolving needs of the global market, ensuring greater efficiency and connectivity for our partners and customers.”
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