On November 19, 2024, Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo officially launched a strategic partnership to enhance global cargo connectivity and operational efficiency. This collaboration was inaugurated by Mark Drusch, Qatar Airways Cargo's chief officer of cargo, alongside Mark Jason Thomas, the Chief Executive of MASkargo, the cargo airline subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group. The partnership, which began operations on October 1, 2024, has already facilitated the movement of approximately 2,400 tonnes of cargo.
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This includes over 600 tonnes of perishables and 130 tonnes of pharmaceuticals, indicating a significant operational synergy between the two airlines. Qatar Airways Cargo will now operate Boeing 777 flights twice weekly from Doha to Kuala Lumpur, increasing its weekly cargo capacity by over 200 tonnes. Conversely, MASkargo will enhance connectivity to Sydney and Melbourne with its Airbus A330 freighters, which can carry more than 75 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity to these destinations. The strategic hubs at Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) will play pivotal roles in this partnership. These airports will offer seamless connections and advanced handling facilities, benefiting both carriers by providing access to new markets.
For MASkargo, this alliance opens up key points in Europe, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), the Levant, and Africa, while Qatar Airways Cargo gains increased access to Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and Northeast Asia. This not only supports the local market in Kuala Lumpur by enabling exports to more global destinations but also strengthens the global cargo network for both airlines. Mark Drusch emphasized that as the world's leading global air cargo carrier, this partnership with MASkargo is a testament to Qatar Airways Cargo's commitment to providing exceptional service and tailored solutions while expanding its network through strategic alliances. He highlighted that by combining their strengths, both airlines could offer enhanced connectivity and efficiency, ensuring products reach global markets in optimal conditions.
Mark Jason Thomas of MASkargo added that this partnership positions MASkargo better than ever to serve as a bridge between Southeast Asia and key international destinations, facilitating the regional economy and the movement of high-demand goods to a larger market, and setting new standards in cargo transportation. This strategic move not only expands the operational scope of both entities but also signifies a step towards deeper economic cooperation between Qatar and Malaysia, leveraging their geographical positions for mutual benefit in the global air cargo sector.