Malaysian cargo airline MASkargo, officially known as MAB Kargo (Malaysia Airlines Berhad Cargo), is looking to bolster its regional operations in Asia by partnering with an operator of Boeing 737-800 freighters.
A tender notice from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) reveals that the Kuala Lumpur International Airport-based cargo carrier is seeking a freighter operator for an initial 14-month term, with an option to extend for an additional 12 months. The partnership will involve the use of converted 737 aircraft.
Details regarding flight frequencies and routes are still pending, but proposed destinations include Kuala Lumpur, Noi Bai (Hanoi), Yangon, Kuching, Chennai, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phnom Penh.
MASkargo’s existing freighter network spans Asia, Australia, and Europe, with current services to destinations such as Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, Labuan, Penang, Bangkok, Chennai, Mumbai, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Manila, Hanoi, and Sydney, as well as Amsterdam via Doha. The airline also leverages its belly capacity network to reach 65 global destinations.
While the source of the aircraft has not been disclosed, Malaysia Airlines’ passenger fleet includes 37 Boeing 737-800s, which could potentially be converted for this purpose. MASkargo has been contacted for further details.
Currently, MASkargo operates a fleet of three Airbus A330-200 freighters, each with a 61-tonne capacity. The move to incorporate 737-800 freighters aligns with MASkargo’s strategic expansion goals. Chief Executive Mark Jason Thomas had previously indicated that while the airline is exploring new freighter acquisitions, its short-term strategy involves forming partnerships to support its growth.
In June, MASkargo and Qatar Airways Cargo announced a collaboration to share network and fleet capacities, enhancing cargo services for both carriers.
The deadline for submitting interest in the tender is September 10.
