IAG Cargo has partnered with Finnair Cargo to increase the reach of their respective networks by entering into a block space agreement on freighter capacity operating between London Luton and Helsinki. Operated by an A300-600 cargo freighter, the new air bridge joins the two carriers’ networks together and will provide IAG Cargo customers with greater network reach than ever before. This is the second freighter deal signed by IAG Cargo since it moved to its pioneering outsourced capacity model in May 2014, whereby it grows its network by working in partnership with key carriers.
Steve Gunning, CEO of IAG Cargo, commented: “We have once again expanded our network through an asset-light solution and provided our customers with access to an even greater range of destinations. With Finnair’s excellent reach into Asia and our strength in the Americas, this deal will open up new markets for our customers while supporting the responsible management of capacity on our network.”
Antti Kuusenmäki, VP, Head of Finnair Cargo, commented: “We are happy to announce the opening of our 3rd hub to London, which is continuing the home market expansion we successfully started by establishing the Brussels hub three years ago. This partnership with IAG Cargo does not only offer our customers considerably improved connections between Asia and the UK, but also adds tens of new great connections between our Nordic home market, Northern America and Asia.”
The freighter will fly twice a week and provides IAG Cargo with the ability to easily route cargo through Helsinki, to supplement Finnairs’ seven and IAG Cargos’ two daily narrow-body services between London Heathrow and Helsinki. This benefits customers by significantly improving connectivity between Asia Pacific, Europe and the Americas.
The agreement comes just over a year since IAG Cargo signed its first landmark freighter deal, whereby IAG Cargo purchases capacity on a Qatar Airways freighter operating between Hong Kong and London Stansted.
The new agreement also supports IAG Cargo’s Partner Plus partnership with Finnair Cargo, which offers space on each other’s aircraft on a commercially booked basis.
