MSC Air Cargo Expands Its Global Network and Operational Capabilities

The new Boeing 777-200 Freighter, I-MSCB Bellatrix, was delivered to MSC Air Cargo by Boeing at its Everett Delivery Center, located at Paine Field in Everett, Washington. The official handover took place during a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the significance of the delivery, which reinforces the airline’s ability to serve key long-haul trade lanes and meet growing customer demand.

Registered in Italy under MSC Air’s European AOC, the I-MSCB Bellatrix is a state-of-the-art widebody freighter—the second of its kind. The accomplishment highlights MSC Air Cargo’s longstanding investment in the nation’s aviation presence and its ambition to ensure high-quality, customer-focused air freight solutions that align with the broader MSC Group logistics network. Furthermore, it exemplifies MSC Air Cargo’s focus on building a modern fleet that reflects the Group’s overarching ESG priorities, as the advanced aircraft design and operational efficiency of the Boeing 777F platform contributes lower emissions per ton of cargo transported than previous-generation freighters. The aircraft’s additional capacity will contribute to operations on the Asia–Europe corridors, with further route details to be shared in due course.

Speaking to this development, Anders Matikka, VP of MSC Air Cargo, commented, "The addition of a second Boeing 777 Freighter operated by MSC Air marks another important step in our operational growth and commitment to the European market. This expansion enhances our capacity and operational flexibility, enabling us to provide even more reliable and tailored solutions for our customers. Our focus remains on delivering customer-centric services that meet the evolving needs of global trade."

Vice President of Boeing Commercial Sales & Marketing Europe & Israel, Ricardo Cavero, added: “With today’s newest 777 Freighter delivery, MSC Air Cargo continues to invest in its future by further enhancing the capability of its global network. The 777 Freighter is the most fuel-efficient aircraft in its class and will connect MSC’s global gateways to key international markets, offering unmatched operating efficiencies. MSC Air Cargo’s continued confidence in the 777 Freighter program is testament to the airplane outstanding capabilities in supporting global cargo demand.”

Building on this momentum, MSC Air Cargo inaugurated its scheduled operations on the Milan Malpensa–Shanghai Pudong (MXP–PVG) route using one of its Boeing 777-200 Freighters in early March 2026. Establishing a direct link between Milan Malpensa and Shanghai Pudong International Airport, the route further strengthens MSC Air Cargo’s presence on Asia–Europe trade lanes while meeting the demand for reliable long-haul air cargo capacity.

Shanghai serves as a key connection point between Asian markets, Europe and other destinations around the world, specifically for specialized and time-sensitive cargo. The new MXP–PVG service underscores MSC Air Cargo’s commitment to Shanghai Pudong Airport as a strategic gateway for international trade within its global network.

MSC Air Cargo continues to develop its presence in Asia through partnerships across the air cargo value chain. In late 2025, the company signed two Memoranda of Understanding, one of which was with SF Express, to expand its existing collaboration to enhance air cargo cooperation and connectivity on key Asia–Europe trade lanes. The other was signed with Shanghai Airport Authority Logistics Development Co—a subsidiary of Shanghai Airport Authority (AVINEX)— in support of developing Shanghai Pudong as a core hub within MSC Air Cargo’s Asia-Pacific network.

“The inauguration of our scheduled MXP–PVG service marks an important step in strengthening our long-haul network between Europe and Asia,” said Jannie Davel, CEO of MSC Air Cargo. “Shanghai Pudong is a key gateway for global trade and this route reflects our focus on delivering consistent capacity, reliable operations and high service standards on critical Asia–Europe corridors.” 

With each new milestone, MSC Air Cargo progresses further in its goal to establish a durable, long-term air cargo network that prioritizes operational reliability, customer satisfaction and impactful partnerships across major global markets. The expanded capacity has allowed MSC Air Cargo to increase the breadth of its capabilities, specialized service offerings and operations. Introducing solutions such as Shipped Fresh, Shipped Pharma and Shipped Special, MSC Air Cargo is supporting a wider range of industries, including automotive, high-tech, perishable and aerospace industries, among other time-critical sectors.

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