After several months in development, MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company announced the launch of MSC Air Cargo in September 2022 as a complementary service to its container shipping solutions. Two months later, in December, the Geneva-headquartered all-cargo carrier launched its first commercial operations from its European gateway at Liege in Belgium. With a fleet of four brand new Boeing 777 freighters, and a fifth one expected to join the fleet soon, the 20-month-old cargo-carrier has impressed the air cargo market with innovative solutions to fulfill market demands leveraging technology and customer-first approach. Its charter solution is expansive and has a dedicated team to fulfil unique demands.
Charter services from MSC Air Cargo focus on offering bespoke solutions tailored to the unique needs of customers through a dedicated team and a robust global network. Supported by a seasoned team of professionals committed to excellence, the cargo carrier orchestrates flawless operations, ensuring the safe and timely transportation of cargo worldwide. With a dynamic global network, it provides access to key markets across continents, connecting businesses to opportunities with ease and efficiency.
MSC Air Cargo understands the dynamic nature of the airfreight industry and the importance of agility in meeting its client's needs. Therefore, it plans the schedule so diligently to accommodate opportunities even in the short term. Whether it's a last-minute request or a sudden surge in demand, the flexible scheduling ensures that MSC Air Cargo is always prepared to seize opportunities and deliver results.
Over the past six months, MSC Air Cargo has demonstrated its prowess in charter operations, executing a total of 100+ successful charters (including ad hoc) from Asia to the US, Mexico and Europe as well as from India and UAE to Europe. These operations encompassed both long-term agreements and ad hoc opportunities, showcasing versatility and adaptability in meeting diverse customer requirements.
“Even though we focus on transpacific routes due to e-commerce growth, we make sure to maintain a diversified portfolio of services to support our clients’ changing needs and stay flexible in a dynamic market.”
Andrea Polizzi, MSC Air Cargo
According to Andrea Polizzi, MSC Air Cargo’s Head of Network Development & Commercial Performance, “The demand for charters is on the rise, reflecting shifting market dynamics and an increasing number of requests. In response to this trend, we are proactively building a dynamic schedule to accommodate short-term opportunities while also preparing for the upcoming peak season. By staying ahead of market behaviour and anticipating capacity needs, we aim to prevent any potential shortages and ensure seamless operations during peak periods. Even though we focus on transpacific routes due to e-commerce growth, we make sure to maintain a diversified portfolio of services to support our client’s changing needs and stay flexible in a dynamic market.”
The recent events in the Red Sea have also presented unique opportunities for MSC Air Cargo as freight forwarders are leveraging charters to navigate the evolving maritime landscape. With vessels often halting before the Suez Canal, charter services from MSC Air Cargo offer a strategic solution for expediting cargo transportation. As the Red Sea situation continues to unfold, the carrier remains agile and responsive, ready to meet the evolving needs of its customers and capitalise on emerging opportunities.
Exciting developments are on the horizon for MSC Air Cargo, with the imminent arrival of the fifth Boeing 777-200F aircraft. This new addition will not only boost its capacity but also enhance flexibility in accommodating customer requests. With the expanded fleet and strategic network, MSC Air Cargo can offer charter services connecting key markets worldwide, providing added convenience and value to customers.
This was originally published in the May 2024 issue of The STAT Trade Times.