Qatar Airways Cargo has announced the launch of a new strategic partnership with MASkargo, the cargo airline and subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group.
The partnership, inaugurated today by Mark Drusch, Qatar Airways Cargo's chief cargo officer, and Mark Jason Thomas, MASKargo's chief executive, will enhance the carrier's global cargo connectivity and operational efficiency.
The collaboration officially began on October 1, 2024, and had already successfully moved approximately 2,400 tonnes of cargo, including over 600 tonnes of perishables and 130 tonnes of pharmaceuticals.
Qatar Airways Cargo Boeing 777 flights now fly from Doha to Kuala Lumpur twice a week, increasing weekly cargo capacity by over 200 tonnes.
"The strategic partnership will further solidify connectivity and efficiency to Sydney and Melbourne with MASkargo Airbus A330 freighters carrying more than 75 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity to these cities, with a swift connection time of just 8 hours in Kuala Lumpur," the announcement said.
It added that the strategic hubs at Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) will play a pivotal role, providing seamless connections and state-of-the-art handling facilities.
Qatar Airways Cargo noted that the agreement benefits both parties, allowing MASkargo to access key points in Europe, GCC, Levant and Africa, while Qatar Airways Cargo gains increased capacity access to Australia, New Zealand, South East Asia and North East Asia.
It also supports the local market in Kuala Lumpur by enabling the export of products to more global markets.
"As the world's leading global air cargo carrier, this partnership with MASkargo is a testament to our commitment to providing exceptional service and tailored solutions while expanding our global network through sponsorships," Drusch said.
"By combining our strengths, we are able to offer our customers enhanced connectivity and efficiency, ensuring their products reach global markets in optimal condition. We are excited about the opportunities this collaboration brings and remain committed to setting the standard for excellence in the air cargo industry," he added.
Thomas, for his part, noted that the partnership marks an exciting step forward for MASkargo and Qatar Airways Cargo to create a "truly interconnected global cargo network."
"This partnership represents a significant advancement in MASkargo's mission to connect our customers to the world with increased speed and efficiency," he said.
"With this partnership, MASkargo is now better positioned than ever to serve as a bridge between South East Asia and key international destinations. This alliance with Qatar Airways Cargo strengthens our infrastructure and capacity, empowering us to support the regional economy and facilitate the movement of high-demand goods to a larger global market, furthermore setting new standards in cargo transportation," the MASKargo chief added.
In July 2024, Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance their product offerings to cargo customers and achieve operational synergies.
This joint cargo business agreement allows both airlines to leverage each other's network strengths and fleet capacity, significantly increasing their cargo offerings.
