Andrea Gruber returns to air cargo industry; Joins MSC Air Cargo

Andrea Gruber has joined MSC Air Cargo as Head of Service Excellence at its headquarters in Geneva. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, her appointment marks a significant milestone for MSC Air Cargo, which has been steadily expanding its operations since its launch in October 2022.

Gruber's professional background is marked by her tenure at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), where she spent 13 years in various roles. She served as Head of Special Cargo from November 2017 to June 2021, leading IATA's cargo governing bodies and regulating the air transportation of live animals, perishables, and healthcare products. Prior to this, Gruber was Senior Manager, Special Cargo, from May 2014 to October 2017, and Manager, Business Process & Standards, from May 2008 to April 2014.

Before joining IATA, Gruber worked at the International Road Transport Union (IRU) for over 10 years, serving as Head of SafeTIR/TIR Detection of Irregularities. In this role, she implemented a customs' electronic data exchange risk management system and performed risk/data analysis, high-impact statistics, and business process solutions.

Gruber's most recent role was Head of Process and Organisational Development at skyguide, a Swiss air navigation service provider, where she worked from August 2021 to December 2024.

MSC Air Cargo, a subsidiary of the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), has been rapidly expanding its operations since its launch in October 2022. The cargo airline started with a single Boeing 777 freighter operated by Atlas Air and has since grown to a fleet of five aircraft. The fifth Boeing 777 production freighter (I-MSCA) is fully owned and operated by MSC Air Cargo through MSC Air, the rebranded AlisCargo that was acquired by MSC in 2023.

Based at the Milan Malpensa Airport, MSC Air Cargo is the only Italian wide-body freighter operator. The aircraft, named after one of the hottest stars in the universe Alfirk, is the first aircraft to be registered in Italy in over 30 years. The other four Boeing 777 freighters in MSC Air Cargo’s fleet are operated by American cargo airline and ACMI operator Atlas Air.

Under the leadership of CEO Jannie Davel, MSC Air Cargo has been focusing on building a reliable network, robust operational framework, and prudent business and commercial strategies. The airline has also been investing in industry-leading certifications and partnerships, including IATA CEIV Pharma certification.

Gruber's appointment as Head of Service Excellence is expected to further enhance MSC Air Cargo's commitment to delivering high-quality services to its customers. With her extensive experience in the air cargo industry and expertise in special cargo, Gruber is well-positioned to drive excellence and shape the future of air cargo services at MSC Air Cargo.