IAG Cargo, MASkargo and Qatar Airways Cargo have successfully completed the trial of the first customer shipment transported across all three carriers, marking a major milestone ahead of the full launch of their Global Cargo Joint Business later this year.

The shipment provides an early demonstration of how customers will benefit from the combined strengths of the three airlines, with cargo moving seamlessly across multiple carriers, hubs and regions through a coordinated global network.

The successful first trilateral shipment saw 11 tonnes of copper foil transported from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD) via Doha (DOH) and Dublin (DUB).

As a critical component for advanced electronics and electric vehicle battery production, copper foil plays an important role in supporting global digital and energy transition initiatives. Shipped from Malaysia, a leading electronics manufacturing hub, this movement underscores the value of the future Global Cargo Joint Business in connecting production centres with global demand markets through a highly integrated network.

Announced in 2025, the Global Cargo Joint Business brings together three leading cargo carriers to create a network of unprecedented scale and reach. Once fully launched, customers will gain access to over 400 destinations across six continents through a single, highly connected network, benefiting from greater flexibility, expanded routing options and faster, more seamless access to global markets.

David Shepherd, Chief Executive Officer at IAG Cargo, said:

"Completing our first trilateral customer shipment is a significant milestone as we continue preparations for the launch of the Global Cargo Joint Business, which will redefine international air cargo.

"Alongside our partners, we have been aligning our operations, systems and expertise to create a Joint Business that works seamlessly across our combined networks. As we progress towards full launch, our focus remains on delivering a coordinated proposition that provides tangible benefits for customers across the global air freight market."

Mark Jason Thomas, Chief Executive Officer at MASkargo, said:

“This milestone brings the ambition behind our partnership into focus: connecting businesses to greater opportunities through the collective strengths of three leading cargo carriers. For MASkargo, seeing this first shipment move from Malaysia across our partners’ networks demonstrates the potential of this collaboration to strengthen the link between Asia’s production centres and global demand. As we progress towards launch, our shared focus is on translating that potential into wider market access, greater flexibility and enduring value for our customers.”

Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, said:

"The successful transport of this tripartite shipment showcased the operational alignment, connectivity and customer-focused approach that will underpin the Joint Business. For our customers, this is about creating a simpler, more connected experience and demonstrates the strength of our collaboration. By combining our complementary networks and expertise, we are building a truly global cargo offering that delivers greater reach, more routing flexibility and enhanced efficiency.”

Earlier this year, IAG Cargo was appointed as the ground handling agent for Qatar Airways Cargo in Dublin and Madrid, two of the Joint Business' strategic hubs. Alongside the introduction of MASkargo handling operations at London Heathrow last year, these developments have supported the operational integration required to deliver the Joint Business.

The three carriers will continue operational trials and integration activities ahead of the planned launch of the Global Cargo Joint Business later this year. Customers can book shipments on any of the carriers’ online booking platforms.

ENDS

About IAG Cargo

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.

In 2025 IAG Cargo had a commercial revenue of €1,238 million. It has a combined workforce of more than 2,250 people. Its parent company, International Airlines Group, is one of the world's largest airline groups with 627 aircraft on 31st December 2025.

For further information on IAG Cargo, please visit the IAG Cargo YouTube channel: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/IAGCargo or alternatively, visit the IAG Cargo website: https://www.iagcargo.com

About MASkargo

MAB Kargo Sdn. Bhd. (MASkargo) is the cargo and logistics arm of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG). MASkargo provides comprehensive air cargo solutions, including scheduled and chartered air freight, cargo terminal operations, and integrated logistics services across air, land, and sea – ensuring that we keep businesses moving. 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.

MASkargo is also the premier Cargo Terminal Operator in eleven airports throughout Malaysia, serving the cargo handling needs of over 40 carriers, including some of the leading names in the industry. Its flagship state-of-the-art 108-acre complex in KL International Airport (KLIA) is equipped with advanced cargo handling facilities and is the nation’s only fully automated cargo terminal. With a processing area of 92,900 square metres, the facility has an annual capacity of handling up to one million tonnes of cargo, with potential for expansion to three million tonnes.

MASkargo is a trusted global brand and is recognised as one of Asia’s leading air cargo carriers. To learn more about MASkargo, please visit www.maskargo.com

Media enquiries

For media related enquiries, please email us at media@malaysiaairlines.com

About Qatar Airways Cargo

Qatar Airways Cargo is the world’s leading air cargo carrier, connecting businesses globally through a network of over 60 freighter destinations and more than 160 belly-hold destinations. Part of the Qatar Airways Group, the carrier is headquartered in Doha, State of Qatar, with its hub at Hamad International Airport (HIA) — a world-class facility equipped with state-of-the-art infrastructure. The fleet comprises 30 Boeing 777 freighters and over 240 passenger aircraft offering belly-hold capacity, supported by an extensive road feeder service network. Qatar Airways Cargo is also the launch customer for the innovative Boeing 777-8F, featuring advanced technology and delivering a 25% improvement in fuel efficiency and emissions, with deliveries expected in 2027.

As a global industry leader, Qatar Airways Cargo upholds the highest standards in transporting a diverse range of cargo. The airline continues to invest in digitalisation, products, facilities, and services designed to exceed customer expectations.

Committed to sustainability and social responsibility, Qatar Airways Cargo drives positive change through its WeQare programme, built on four pillars: environment, society, economy, and culture. Leveraging its global network, the carrier supports charitable, environmental, and humanitarian initiatives that transform lives and protect ecosystems worldwide.

Media enquiries

For media enquiries, please contact Qatar Airways Cargo Marketing and Communications Department: cargomarketing@qatarairways.com.qa

Para consultas de prensa, póngase en contacto con:

Nadia Bedra
Nadia.Bedra@iagcargo.com