Qatar Airways Cargo has solidified its position as the world’s top air cargo carrier, delivering exceptional results in a challenging year marked by disruption and competition.
With a 17.4% surge in cargo revenue and 1.5 million tonnes of chargeable weight transported, the airline achieved its strongest financial performance since the COVID-19 era.
Through bold strategies, cutting-edge innovation, and solid operational reliability, Qatar Airways Cargo continues to set the industry standard.
Qatar Airways Cargo Performance
A Global Leader with a Modern Fleet
Operating a robust fleet of 28 Boeing 777 freighters and serving over 60 freighter and 160 belly-hold destinations, Qatar Airways Cargo commands a 7.11% share of the global cargo market. Its extensive network and modern aircraft ensure seamless connectivity for customers worldwide. The airline is also the launch customer for the Boeing 777-8F, a next-generation freighter set to arrive in 2027, offering 25% better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
Making a Difference Beyond Cargo
Qatar Airways Cargo’s impact in the air transport sector is far reaching. Through its WeQare program, the airline delivered 470,000 kg of humanitarian aid free of charge, partnering with organizations like UNHCR and Airlink.
Additionally, its Rewild the Planet initiative supported wildlife conservation by transporting 1,182 animals. This included 47 ring-tailed and brown lemurs, 155 radiated tortoises, 757 spider tortoises, and seven lions. The uplift was conducted in collaboration with groups like United for Wildlife and Animal Defenders International.
“Our success comes from vision, precision, and teamwork,” said Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo. “We’ve adapted to market shifts, invested in digitalization, and prioritized reliability. I’m proud of our team, partners, and customers who make us the benchmark in air cargo.”
Innovation and Customer-Centric Solutions
Qatar Airways Cargo places innovation at the heart of its operations. In response to customer needs, the airline introduced several new products in 2024:
- AirPlus Solutions: A customizable offering combining Q-Climate, Q-Plus, and Q-Prime for tailored shipment options.
- Live Product Relaunch: Enhanced services for live animal transport, supported by the opening of a state-of-the-art, 5,260 m² Animal Centre in Doha—the largest single carrier facility of its kind globally.
- Aerospace: A dedicated service for aviation, defense, and space cargo.
- TechLift: A specialized solution for the semiconductor industry, ensuring precision handling.
Digital Transformation
The airline’s commitment to digital innovation has transformed its operations. By March 2025, 36% of bookings were made through its Digital Lounge platform.
Qatar Airways Cargo became the first cargo airline to enable interline partners to book online, streamlining operations.
The airline also expanded omnichannel options with Octoloop by Cargo Flash in 10 Indian cities, integrating wallet functionality.
Partnerships with UNISYS Cargo Portal Service and Wiremind Cargo introduced AI-powered revenue management through the CARGOSTACK Optimiser, a global first for the industry.
Expanding Network Reach
Qatar Airways Cargo boosted its network with new freighter services to Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Vienna, Kuala Lumpur, and London, alongside increased frequencies to China and Hong Kong.
These efforts contributed to the airline’s impressive haul of 10 major industry awards in 2024 and 2025, including:
- Cargo Airline of the Year (Air Cargo Week World Air Cargo Awards 2024)
- Air Cargo Industry Customer Care (Air Cargo Week World Air Cargo Awards 2024)
- Sustainable Cargo Airline of the Year (Freight Week Awards, Middle East)
- International Air Cargo Marketer of the Year (STAT Times Awards 2025)
- Humanitarian Force for Good (Air Transport World Airline Industry Achievement Awards 2025)
Conclusion
“We don’t follow trends—we set them,” Drusch emphasized. “Our focus on performance, foresight, and purpose drives us forward. New products and digital innovations are already in development to keep us leading global trade.”
Based in Doha, Qatar, Qatar Airways Cargo is the world’s leading air cargo carrier. It serves over 60 freighter destinations and 170 passenger destinations.
This is achieved using 28 Boeing 777 freighters and 230 belly-hold aircraft.
Supported by an extensive road feeder network, the airline continues to innovate and expand, delivering unmatched reliability and impact in the air cargo industry.
