Doha: Three leading companies in air cargo, Qatar Airways Cargo, IAG Cargo, and MAB Kargo Sdn Bhd (MASkargo) have announced their intention to launch a Global Cargo Joint Business, which, subject to regulatory approval, will enable the carriers to further enhance existing service levels to customers and partners across the global air freight market.

According to Qatar News Agency, the strategic collaboration will bring together the combined expertise and infrastructure of three leading players in the air cargo industry and is aimed at creating significant customer benefits. A streamlined product offering, enhanced connectivity, faster transit times, and new routing opportunities across their combined extensive networks will deliver greater value and service flexibility to customers worldwide. In parallel, the parties are jointly working at developing industry-leading harmonized safety and security standards for their customers, the statement added.

This ground-breaking trilateral partnership will significantly improve the accessibility and efficiency of air freight, enabling customers to expand their global air freight. By combining their resources, Qatar Airways Cargo, IAG Cargo, and MASkargo plan to build a truly connected, more agile cargo network that will address the evolving needs of global trade and logistics.

Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, Mark Drusch said, "Today marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to redefine the global air cargo landscape. This agreement will bring together three strong players to offer unparalleled service and global connectivity, reinforcing our commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence."

In turn, Chief Executive Officer at IAG Cargo David Shepherd said, "This agreement is a testament to our history of bringing businesses together. With years of experience in forging successful collaborations, we understand the real value they bring. This joint business not only unlocks choice and opportunities for our customers but also enhances connectivity for the businesses and industries they serve, further strengthening the role air cargo plays in facilitating global trade."

Chief Executive Officer at MASkargo Mark Jason Thomas said, "This strategic collaboration marks a pivotal moment for MASkargo and the air cargo industry. We are excited to partner with Qatar Airways Cargo and IAG Cargo to deliver a new era of value and innovation to our customers. By leveraging our combined strengths and expertise, we will provide enhanced service offerings, expanded global reach, and cutting-edge solutions that address the evolving needs of the global market, ensuring greater efficiency and connectivity for our partners and customers."

The process of submitting the collective agreement is currently underway with regulatory authorities across multiple judicial departments for review and approval. The carriers expect to implement the agreement in the near future, subject to first obtaining the necessary regulatory clearances.

Qatar Airways Cargo serves a global network of more than 76 freighter destinations and 170 passenger destinations utilizing freighters and belly-hold passenger aircraft.

IAG Cargo is the single business created following the merger of British Airways World Cargo and Iberia Cargo in April 2011. Following the integration of additional airlines into the business, including Aer Lingus, Vueling, and LEVEL, IAG Cargo now covers a global network covering six continents.

MAB Kargo Sdn. Bhd. (MASkargo) is the cargo division of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG). MASkargo offers a wide range of services, including scheduled and chartered air freight, cargo terminal handling, and integrated logistics solutions via air, land, and sea transportation. With dedicated belly capacity and freighter operations, complemented by robust partnerships with leading cargo carriers, MASkargo's expansive network is able to reach over 100 destinations worldwide.