Geneva-based Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) container line has acquired the majority stake of AlisCargo Airlines, a Milan-based air freight carrier.
This is a first step towards the acquisition of 100% of AlisCargo Airlines by MSC, expected to happen at the beginning of 2024, once AlisCargo Airlines will restart operations with the delivery of a Boeing 777F.
This transaction is another step to further develop MSC Air Cargo operations, whilst it creates a European gateway and transit point for MSC’s air cargo solutions.
The majority selling party is represented by the Leali Group, led by Mr. Domenico Alcide Leali who, after the success with Air Dolomiti started AlisCargo Airlines in 2019.
It’s worth mentioning that MSC Air Cargo has been building up its air cargo offering through numerous strategic partnerships with sales agents and software providers.
MSC Air Cargo provides a complementary solution to MSC’s core shipping services and operates two aircraft managed by Atlas Air Worldwide between Europe, Central America and Asia and will add two more in the next six months.
MSC air cargo senior vice president, Jannie Davel, stated: “The acquisition of a majority share in AlisCargo Airlines is a step towards expanding MSC’s Air Cargo solution capabilities, and ultimately providing our customers with a quality and consistent offering.”
Following the completion of the operation, MSC Air Cargo will have a new operating license and a fleet of 5 wide-body aircraft within the next 12 months.
