MSC Air Cargo celebrates a monumental achievement this week with the launch of its first commercial flight from Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) to Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). The route Malpensa-Hong Kong-Malpensa will be operated twice a week. The occasion marks the beginning of a new era in airfreight logistics as MSC Air Cargo expands its network and capabilities with the delivery of its fifth MSC-branded aircraft, the Boeing 777-200 Freighter (I-MSCA), operated by AlisCargo Airlines.

In a strategic move to bolster its presence in the airfreight industry, SAS Shipping Agencies Services Sàrl, a wholly owned subsidiary of MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company SA, started the acquisition of AlisCargo Airlines in August 2023 and completed it few weeks ago reaching 100% ownership. The addition of AlisCargo’s expertise and resources, combined with a new state-of-the-art Boeing 777-200 Freighter, will support and enhance MSC Air Cargo’s commitment to innovation while honoring the Italian heritage of the MSC Group.

Jannie Davel, Senior Vice President of MSC Air Cargo, commented, “The completion of the acquisition of AlisCargo and the receipt of this aircraft represent significant milestones for MSC strategy in the air cargo business. With our own European Air Operator Certificate (AOC), we enhance our efficiency and capabilities to better serve our customer base and trade lanes. Our mission remains unchanged – to be a customer-centric company, offering specialized and tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of our clients.”

“The 777 Freighter is the world’s largest, longest range and most capable twin-engine freighter. We wish MSC every success as it launches the first commercial flight to be operated by AlisCargo Airlines and look forward to many years of partnership as it grows its air cargo division” said Ricardo Cavero, Vice President Commercial Sales & Marketing Europe & Israel, The Boeing Company.

The deployment of I-MSCA, Italy’s first allocated brand-new widebody freighter in over four decades, highlights MSC Air Cargo’s commitment to sustainable growth, operational excellence, and strengthening its presence in the Italian market. The addition of this aircraft completes a fleet of five Boeing 777-200 Freighters, renowned for their fuel efficiency measures, further solidifying MSC Air Cargo’s position as an industry leader in air cargo logistics.

Furthermore, MSC Air Cargo continues to innovate with the recent launch of Shipped Pharma, its first specialized product, with plans to achieve CEIV certification by summer of 2024. This new offering exemplifies MSC Air Cargo’s commitment to meeting the diverse transportation needs of various sectors, including automotive, aerospace, high-tech, pharmaceuticals, perishables, and more.

In an industry characterized by constant evolution, MSC Air Cargo remains at the forefront, driving towards a future of enhanced efficiency, flexibility, and unparalleled customer service. Since its inception just nineteen months ago, the company has demonstrated remarkable growth, evolving from operating a single aircraft to a fleet of five, showcasing significant progress in air cargo logistics.