Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) has acquired a majority stake in AlisCargo (CP, Milan Malpensa) and intends to relaunch the dormant Italian cargo airline at the beginning of 2024 with a B777 freighter.
The transaction is expected to complete early next year when the Switzerland-headquartered shipping giant aims to acquire a 100% stake in AlisCargo.
"The acquisition of a majority share in AlisCargo is a step towards expanding MSC Air Cargo solution capabilities, and ultimately providing our customers with a quality and consistent offering. I am equally proud that we have found a partner that shares a common vision with us and has built a strong foundation for which we hope to further develop," Senior Vice-President Jannie Davel said.
MSC plans to outfit AlisCargo with five widebody freighters within a year.
The Italian cargo specialist has been dormant since late 2022. It operated two B777-200ER makeshift freighters, which was increasingly unviable given an EASA ban on ferrying cargo in the cabins, which was reinstated in mid-2022, and declining demand for cargo-only flights in the market. Following the suspension of operations, AlisCargo had its Operating Licence and Air Operator's Certificate suspended in late 2022. MSC will reactivate both permits in due course.
MSC Air Cargo does not have any in-house aircraft at present, instead chartering B777-200Fs from Atlas Air (5Y, New York JFK). The American carrier currently operates two aircraft on behalf of MSC, with two more due.
MSC and Atlas Air refused to comment on the future of their cooperation and the impact of the AlisCargo acquisition on it.
