IAG Cargo, MASkargo and Qatar Airways complete first joint shipment

IAG Cargo, MASkargo and Qatar Airways Cargo have completed their first customer shipment involving all three carriers, marking a key step towards the launch of their Global Cargo Joint Business later this year.

The trial shipment moved 11 tonnes of copper foil from Kuala Lumpur to Chicago O’Hare, travelling through Doha and Dublin across the three carriers’ networks.

First shipment tests integrated cargo network

The shipment provided the carriers with an opportunity to test how cargo can move between their respective networks, hubs and operations ahead of the full launch.

Copper foil was transported from Kuala Lumpur to Doha before continuing through Dublin and on to Chicago. The commodity is widely used in electronics and electric vehicle battery production.

The three companies said the trial demonstrated the operational coordination that will support their future joint cargo offering.

“The successful transport of this tripartite shipment showcased the operational alignment, connectivity and customer-focused approach that will underpin the Joint Business,” said Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo.

Joint network to cover more than 400 destinations

IAG Cargo, MASkargo and Qatar Airways Cargo announced the Global Cargo Joint Business in 2025.

Once fully launched, the combined network is expected to connect customers with more than 400 destinations across six continents. The carriers aim to provide additional routing options by combining their complementary networks.

Operational preparations have already progressed at several strategic hubs.

Earlier this year, IAG Cargo became the ground handling agent for Qatar Airways Cargo in Dublin and Madrid. MASkargo handling operations were also introduced at London Heathrow last year.

Full launch planned later this year

The three carriers will continue conducting operational trials and integration work before the planned launch of the Global Cargo Joint Business later in 2026.

“Completing our first trilateral customer shipment is a significant milestone as we continue preparations for the launch of the Global Cargo Joint Business,” said David Shepherd, Chief Executive Officer of IAG Cargo.

Customers can already book shipments through the individual online booking platforms of IAG Cargo, MASkargo and Qatar Airways Cargo.

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