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Qatar Airways marks 20 years of freighter operations

By Maria Santos
1 min read
Qatar Airways scaled
Qatar Airways scaled
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Qatar Airways Cargo is celebrating its 20th year of dedicated freighter operations. Over the past two decades, Qatar Airways Cargo has continuously expanded its fleet, network, and product portfolio in a bid to become the world’s #1 cargo carrier.

In 2003, Qatar Airways Cargo delivered its first freighter, an Airbus A300-600, a converted passenger aircraft. It began regular operations to Amsterdam and Chennai, and shortly thereafter, to New Delhi.

Today, the cargo airline operates to more than 160 belly-hold and over 70 freighter destinations with over 200 passenger aircraft and 31 dedicated cargo freighters.

With the launch of its Next Generation strategy, Qatar Airways Cargo has defined its role in the air cargo industry through enhanced products and services, cutting-edge technology, a commitment to sustainability and diversity, investing in existing talent and attracting new ones.

Qatar Airways Cargo has achieved significant accomplishments, including being the first airline globally to complete the suite of IATA CEIV certifications, the launch of the Kigali Africa hub in partnership with RwandAir, and the introduction of innovative products like Pharma, Fresh, Courier, and SecureLift.

Being one of the early adopters of digital transformation, it has launched a new website and online booking portal Digital Lounge and partnered with marketplace platforms The airline has also committed to sustainability through its WeQare program, championing initiatives such as ‘Rewild the planet’ and launching a CO2 emission calculator.

As the airline enters the next decade, Qatar said it remains dedicated to digitalization and sustainability and looks forward to continuing to be at the forefront of air cargo’s innovation and customer-centric solutions.

Questions & Answers

Q.

Which specific destinations did Qatar Airways Cargo first serve when it began regular freighter operations?

A.

When Qatar Airways Cargo started its regular freighter operations, it initially delivered to Amsterdam and Chennai. Shortly after, services were expanded to include New Delhi, establishing its early network for dedicated cargo flights.

Q.

Beyond expanding its fleet and network, what key areas has Qatar Airways Cargo focused on as part of its Next Generation strategy?

A.

Its Next Generation strategy focuses on enhanced products and services, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to sustainability and diversity. It also aims to invest in existing talent and attract new personnel to the air cargo industry.

Q.

What notable partnerships or initiatives has Qatar Airways Cargo undertaken to advance its operations or sustainability efforts?

A.

Qatar Airways Cargo has launched the Kigali Africa hub in partnership with RwandAir. For sustainability, it champions initiatives like 'Rewild the planet' through its WeQare programme, which also includes a CO2 emission calculator.

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