Emirates SkyCargo and Air Canada Cargo have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that would enhance their networks and reach around the world.

Emirates said in an announcement that under the terms of the MoU, Emirates SkyCargo and Air Canada Cargo would work closely on a number of initiatives, which include expanding interline cargo options and block space agreements, pending any required regulatory approvals.

These enhancements aim to offer freight customers of both airlines access to more capacity on a larger combined global network.

The statement said Emirates SkyCargo would have access to over 60 cities in Canada and more than 150 cities across five continents through Air Canada Cargo, thanks to a fleet of Boeing 767 freighters and including in the belly-hold capacity of Air Canada's scheduled passenger flights.

In return, Air Canada Cargo will have access to Emirates SkyCargo's high-frequency distribution network through the belly-hold of Emirates scheduled passenger flights to over 140 global destinations, as well as the additional capacity offered by 11 freighters currently in the Emirates fleet.

Both airlines bring particular experience in handling unique cargo, such as oil and gas drilling equipment, car parts and pharmaceuticals, on their dedicated fleet of freighters or passenger aircraft.

 Source: Emirates SkyCargo

"Emirates SkyCargo is committed to being a leading player in the global air cargo industry, providing our customers with the highest standards of products and services. Cooperating with Air Canada Cargo will offer our clients added value through more rapid reach to new destinations in Canada via our Toronto and US gateways," said Nabil Sultan, divisional senior vice president, cargo at Emirates.

Matthieu Casey, managing director, commercial at Air Canada Cargo, welcomed the partnership and noted how the customers of both airlines would benefit from the newly-inked deal.

"We are thrilled to be further strengthening our cargo relationship with Emirates SkyCargo. This agreement enables both carriers to work more closely to optimize our respective freighter and belly capacity throughout each of our extensive and complementing global networks," Casey said.

"Customers will benefit from these additional synergies by having access to an even greater array of options, destinations and streamlined handling when shipping globally," the Air Canada Cargo executive added. 

Since announcing their strategic partnership in 2022, Emirates and Air Canada have implemented a passenger codeshare agreement that spans 46 destinations across North America, the Middle East, Asia and Africa and have launched a Loyalty program partnership to allow Skywards and Aeroplan members to earn and redeem Miles and Points on all flights operated by Emirates and Air Canada, respectively. 

Emirates said the agreement builds on the airlines' strategic commercial partnership announced last year and was signed at Emirates Headquarters in Dubai, UAE, by Nabil Sultan of Emirates SkyCargo and Casey of Air Canada Cargo.