Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo have agreed to join forces and benefit from each other’s cargo strengths as laid out in their recently signed Memorandum of Understanding. On the passenger side, the two airlines already signed a codeshare agreement back in 2004, which was expanded in 2022 to a total of 62 destinations. They have long been partners under the oneworld umbrella. The latest MoU will see their cargo carriers achieve operational synergies and improve connectivity through each other’s international networks operating out of their respective hubs: Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar, and Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur International Airport. While MASkargo customers will have access to Qatar Airways Cargo’s global network and benefit from the cargo airline’s growing handling capabilities at its expanded Cargo Terminal, Qatar Airways Cargo customers will benefit from greater capacity opportunities and new destinations in the APAC market. On the fleet side, too, both airlines are set for growth. Qatar Airways Cargo is the launch customer of the Boeing 777-8 freighter, and will take delivery of 34 aircraft. Malaysian Airlines purchased 20 new A330neo aircraft for its passenger flights, and will offer their bellies for cargo.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, explained: “Our new MoU with Malaysia Aviation Group is testament to our deepening relations with Malaysia and the integral APAC market. This strategic cooperation with our oneworld partner will serve to link our freighter and belly-hold networks with our cargo product offering and capacity, allowing us to further cement our relationship and foster the close links between our airlines.” Group Managing Director of Malaysia Aviation Group, Captain Izham Ismail, added: “Expanding our partnership with Qatar Airways Cargo marks a significant milestone for MASkargo. This collaboration will not only enhance our product offering and operational capabilities but also solidify our position in the global cargo market. By leveraging each other’s strengths, we are poised to deliver unparalleled service to our customers and achieve remarkable growth together.”
