MSC Air Cargo has conducted its first flight from Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) following its takeover of AlisCargo Airlines.
The AlisCargo-operated Boeing 777 freighter (I-MSCA) flight left the Italian hub for Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) earlier this week.
The new service will operate twice per week, the company explained.
MSC took a majority stake acquisition in AlisCargo Airlines in August last year and subsequently invested in 100% of the carrier this year.
Until now, MSC Air Cargo flights have been operated by Atlas Air.
“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,” MSC said.
Jannie Davel, senior vice president of MSC Air Cargo, said: “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.”
MSC said the 777 was Italy’s first brand-new widebody freighter in over four decades.
The addition of the new aircraft means MSC Air Cargo now has a fleet of five 777 freighters , with the other four operated by Atlas.
The carrier has also launched a new pharma product, which represents its first special service.
“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,” the airline said.
“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.”
AlisCargo received its AOC in July 2021 and had been operating preighters during the pandemic, but its operating licence was suspended last year by the Italian civil aviation authority, prior to its acquisition by MSC.
