Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has taken delivery of its first MSC Air Cargo-branded Boeing 777 freighter, which will be operated by Atlas Air.
Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has taken delivery of its first MSC Air Cargo-branded Boeing 777 freighter, which will be operated by Atlas Air.
The B777-200 freighter will fly on routes between China, the USA, Mexico and Europe.
This is the first of four aircraft that will be operated by Atlas Air on an ACMI basis.
Jannie Davel, senior vice president of air cargo at MSC, said: “Our customers need the option of air solutions, which is why we’re integrating this transportation mode to complement our extensive maritime and land cargo operations. The delivery of this first aircraft marks the start of our long-term investment in air cargo.
“Flying adds options, speed, flexibility and reliability to supply chain management, and there are particular benefits for moving perishables, such as fruit and vegetables, pharmaceutical and other healthcare products and high-value goods.”
The B777-200F twin-engine has a range of 9,038 km, which is considered to be one the longest-range aircrafts in the world.
The last year has seen all three of the world’s largest shipping lines invest in air cargo operations. In addition to MSC’s solution, AP Moller Maersk and CMA CGM have invested in their own air cargo businesses by ordering other Boeing models.
