Delta Cargo has expanded its pharmaceutical logistics network to include Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) and Malta International Airport (MLA), extending its reported network to 55 audited stations and strengthening its coverage for temperature-sensitive healthcare shipments.
The two additions provide access to important pharmaceutical markets in Asia and Europe. Hong Kong serves as a major regional cargo gateway, while Malta has developed a significant pharmaceutical manufacturing and export sector, creating additional connectivity for healthcare products moving into European markets.
Four Temperature-Controlled Solutions
Delta Cargo offers four specialised pharmaceutical transportation options designed to accommodate different temperature and handling requirements.
Pharma 1 (CON) uses active temperature-controlled containers, while Pharma 2 (MEC) is designed for shipments requiring temperatures between +2°C and +8°C.
Pharma 3 (CHP) covers a broader +2°C to +25°C temperature range, while Pharma 4 (RMT) is designed for products maintained between +15°C and +25°C.
The range allows shippers to select transportation solutions according to the temperature requirements of individual pharmaceutical products and supply chains.
Hong Kong Strengthens Asia Connectivity
The addition of Hong Kong comes as Delta continues to expand its transpacific cargo network.
Delta resumed nonstop passenger service between Los Angeles and Hong Kong in June 2026, creating a new cargo corridor between the two markets. The route is operated with Airbus A350 aircraft, which Delta says can carry more than 20 tonnes of cargo per flight. The carrier has identified pharmaceuticals, electronics, e-commerce and perishables among the cargo opportunities supported by the new connection.
For pharmaceutical shippers, the Hong Kong addition provides access to a major Asian logistics hub and onward connections across the region.
The airport is reported to hold both Good Distribution Practice (GDP) and IATA CEIV Pharma certification under Delta Cargo’s expanded network, according to the September 1 announcement.
Malta Adds European Pharmaceutical Coverage
Malta provides a further point of connectivity within Europe.
The island has an established pharmaceutical manufacturing and export industry, making reliable temperature-controlled transportation an important component of its international supply chains. Delta began operating nonstop service between New York-JFK and Malta in June 2026, providing additional connectivity between the Mediterranean market and the United States.
Malta operates in compliance with GDP requirements, according to the announcement.
The combination of Malta and Hong Kong expands Delta Cargo’s ability to connect pharmaceutical production and distribution markets across Europe, Asia and North America.
Focus On Pharmaceutical Compliance
The network expansion comes as pharmaceutical logistics increasingly requires documented temperature control, specialised handling and compliance with distribution standards.
Delta says its cargo operation handles more than 11 million pieces annually and transports pharmaceuticals alongside other specialised commodities, including organs for transplant, flowers and fresh produce.
The carrier has also continued to invest in temperature-controlled infrastructure. At New York-JFK, for example, Delta operates a dedicated 16,000-square-foot temperature-controlled cargo facility with chambers designed for pharmaceuticals and perishables.
The addition of HKG and MLA therefore extends an existing pharmaceutical handling network while giving customers additional options for moving healthcare products across major international trade lanes.
Growing Role For Temperature-Controlled Air Cargo
Pharmaceutical supply chains require consistent handling throughout the transport journey, making airport certification, temperature management and operational controls increasingly important for airlines and logistics providers.
With Hong Kong and Malta added to its reported pharmaceutical network, Delta Cargo is expanding the number of locations where customers can access specialised temperature-controlled solutions.
The development also aligns with Delta’s broader investment in its international cargo network, including the recently launched Hong Kong service and continued development of specialised cargo capabilities.
