Dhaka: Qatar Airways Cargo recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Japan Airlines Cargo Division to strengthen partnership and enhance their product offerings to cargo customers.

The agreement was signed by Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo, Qatar Airways Cargo, and Yuichiro Kito, Senior Vice President, Head of Cargo and Mail, Japan Airlines. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Group Chief Executive Officer, Qatar Airways, was also present during the ceremony.

On the development, Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo, Qatar Airways Cargo, said, “This MoU symbolises a commitment to a deeper partnership, aiming to integrate both networks via the hubs in Doha and Tokyo. This will enhance network connectivity and product offerings for customers, linking Japan to Qatar Airways’ extensive network in Europe, the Middle East, the Levant, Africa and vice versa. Customers will benefit from improved connectivity and access to a wider range of destinations.”

The move follows the announcement made earlier in 2024 that Japan Airlines began daily passenger services from Tokyo Haneda Airport in Japan to Hamad International Airport in Qatar.

Over the past 12 months, both carriers have transacted 4,462 tonnes of import and export cargo in Japan, highlighting the substantial impact of their collaboration.

Under the agreement, both parties will enhance their collaboration by optimising their mutual networks and plan to extend their cooperation into various fields.

The partnership will be further enhanced in 2025, when Qatar Airways Cargo will begin freighter services between its hub at Hamad International Airport and Japan Airlines hub at Tokyo Narita airport.