Qatar Airways Cargo & MASkargo Launch New Strategic Partnership

Qatar Airways Cargo has announced the launch of a new strategic partnership with MASkargo, the cargo airline and subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group.

Qatar Airways Cargo X MASkargo

This partnership, inaugurated by Qatar Airways Cargo’s chief officer cargo, Mark Drusch, and MASkargo’s chief executive, Mark Jason Thomas, marks a milestone in enhancing global cargo connectivity and operational efficiency. The collaboration, which officially began on October 1, 2024, has already seen the successful movement of approximately 2,400 tonnes of cargo, including over 600 tonnes of perishables and 130 tonnes of pharmaceuticals.

Qatar Airways Cargo Boeing 777 flights will now operate from Doha to Kuala Lumpur twice a week, increasing weekly cargo capacity by over 200 tonnes. The partnership will further solidify connectivity to Sydney and Melbourne with MASkargo Airbus A330 freighters carrying more than 75 tonnes of weekly cargo capacity to these cities, with a connection time of just eight hours in Kuala Lumpur. The hubs at Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) will provide connections and handling facilities.

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.

Statements

Chief officer cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, Mark Drusch, said: “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 strategic alliances. 

“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.”

MASkargo chief executive officer, Mark Jason Thomas, added: “Today marks an exciting step forward for MASkargo as we join forces with 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. 

“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”.

In July 2024, Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deliver an enhanced product offering to cargo customers and achieve operational synergies. This strategic joint cargo business agreement allows both airlines to leverage each other’s network strengths and fleet capacity, significantly increasing cargo offerings.

The collaboration between Qatar Airways and Malaysia Airlines extends beyond cargo. As members of the oneworld alliance, both airlines have a strong partnership on the passenger side as well. The codeshare agreement, which includes 62 destinations across Malaysia, South East Asia, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas, and Africa, exemplifies their commitment to providing seamless travel experiences. The strategic MoU signed in 2022 further enhances this partnership, facilitating an increase in flight options and destinations for passengers.