Qatar Airways introduces freighter flights to Australia
At a time when most airlines continue to reduce flights operated Qatar Airways continues to invest. The latest initiative sees B777 freighter flights operate into Melbourne and Perth. QR Cargo freighter flights compliment existing belly hold capacity Qatar has into and out of Australia.
Presently demand for cargo ex Australia into Europe is strong. High demand for pharma and fresh produce being seen as key drivers for these flights.
How will these freighter flights operate
Starting 02nd April the flights will operate 2x weekly on a round robin route :
| DOH | SIN | MEL | PER | SIN | DOH |
Qatar airways group chief executive when discussing these additional freighter flights said :
During this time, we are seeing soaring demand for supplies nationwide, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact the supply chain. We are pleased to provide these additional services to bring essential commodities, fresh produce, food products, and medical supplies to Australia as we face this public health crisis. Qatar airways will also be transporting goods to other countries around the world, to meet the demand for Australian products, further supporting the local export industry. We are thankful to the Australian Government for their flexibility in allowing Qatar Airways to continue supporting worldwide trade connectivity by utilising passenger aircraft to carry freight only while passenger operations remain restricted.
His Excellency Mr Akbar Al Baker :
The airline now provides 550 tonnes of capacity into and out of Australia. 200 Tonnes of which is main deck cargo.
Shame that the first time I came to get a quote on this new service QRCargo UK weren’t accepting quotes due to the huge backlog in Doha. Don’t mix up the idea that QR have put these flights on for additional space.
They have put these flights on due to the cargo stuck in Doha and clearing this backlog will mean flights will be full for a while.