MSC Air Cargo to offer Milan-Shanghai freighter operations

Image: © Shutterstock Ronen-Fefer/ Shutterstock

MSC Air Cargo has announced new scheduled operations between Milan Malpensa (MXP) in Italy and Shanghai Pudong (PVG) in China.

This service, due to start on 3 March, strengthens MSC Air Cargo’s presence on key Asia–Europe trade lanes and supports growing demand for long-haul air cargo capacity.

Flights will be carried out using one of the airline’s Boeing 777-200 freighters.

PVG is a strategic gateway within MSC’s global air cargo network and a key hub for international trade
flows, said the airline.

Shanghai also plays a central role in connecting Asian markets with Europe and other global destinations,
particularly for time-sensitive and specialised cargo.

The airline continues to strengthen its presence in Asia through strategic partnerships.

Last year, the airline signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SF Express, extending an existing collaboration to enhance air cargo cooperation and connectivity on key Asia–Europe trade lanes

The airline also signed a MoU with Shanghai Airport Authority Logistics Development Co, a subsidiary of Shanghai Airport Authority (AVINEX), aimed at supporting the development of PVG 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, chief executive 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.”

Last month, MSC Air Cargo took delivery of its second newbuild 777-200F registered in Italy under the airline’s European AOC (air operator certificate).

As well as the two 777-200Fs under the European AOC, Atlas Air operates four 777Fs for MSC Air Cargo under a long-term ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance, insurance) agreement.

MSC Air Cargo plans to continue developing its operational capabilities and specialised product offering, supporting industries such as automotive, high-tech, perishables, aerospace, and other time-critical sectors.