Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo launch new strategic partnership

Doha, November 24, 2024:

Qatar Airways Cargo has launched the new strategic partnership with MASkargo, the cargo airline and subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group.
Inaugurated by Qatar Airways Cargo Chief Officer Cargo Mark Drusch and MASkargo Chief Executive Mark Jason Thomas, this partnership represents a significant milestone in improving global cargo connectivity and operational efficiency.

The collaboration, which officially began on October 1, 2024, has already successfully transported around 2,400 tons of cargo, including over 600 tons of perishable goods and 130 tons 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 quick connection time of just 8 hours in Kuala Lumpur. The strategic hubs Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) will play a central role, providing seamless connections and state-of-the-art handling facilities.

The agreement benefits both parties and gives MASkargo access to key points in Europe, GCC, the Levant and Africa, while Qatar Airways Cargo gains expanded capacity access to Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia and Northeast Asia. It also supports the local market in Kuala Lumpur by enabling the export of products to more global markets.

Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, 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 sponsorship.”

“By combining our strengths, we are able to provide our customers with improved 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.”

Mark Jason Thomas, Chief Executive Officer of MASkargo, added: “Today marks an exciting step forward for MASkargo as we join forces with Qatar Airways Cargo to create a truly connected global cargo network.” This partnership represents a represents significant progress in MASkargo’s mission to connect our customers to the world faster and more efficiently.

“With this partnership, MASkargo is now better positioned than ever to act as a bridge between Southeast Asia and key international destinations. “This alliance with Qatar Airways Cargo strengthens our infrastructure and capacity and enables us to support the regional economy, facilitate the movement of high-demand goods to a larger global market and also set new standards in freight transport.”

In July 2024, Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to offer cargo customers an expanded product offering and achieve operational synergies. This strategic agreement on a joint cargo business enables both airlines to leverage each other’s network strengths and fleet capacities, thereby significantly expanding their cargo offering.

The collaboration between Qatar Airways and Malaysia Airlines goes beyond cargo transport. As members of the oneworld alliance, both airlines also maintain a strong partnership on the passenger side. The codeshare agreement, which covers 62 destinations across Malaysia, Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, Europe, the Americas and Africa, is an example of their commitment to providing seamless travel experiences. The strategic MoU signed in 2022 further strengthens this partnership and enables expansion of flight options and destinations for passengers.