Mark Drusch is the Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, leading the world’s largest airfreight carrier with a vision for innovation, efficiency, and customer-centric solutions. With decades of aviation expertise, he is driving the airline’s cargo division into a new era of operational excellence and strategic growth.
What’s your most memorable moment in the air cargo industry?
It’s actually when I came on board and realised how significantly different it is from the passenger side. When it dawned on me that cargo goes in one direction, unlike passengers who travel and return, I thought, “Oh, this really is different.”
What’s one buzzword you secretly dislike?
I hate the words “synergy” and “pivot”—they’ve been so overused.
Window or aisle seat?
Always window—100% window. I will fight my wife over the window seat!
Which three items would you bring to a desert island?
A bunch of books, sunscreen, and my favourite pillow.
What’s your guilty pleasure TV show or movie?
I’ve got to admit, it’s Star Trek. I am a total Trekkie—I love watching Star Trek.
If you could introduce one new regulation in air cargo, what would it be?
Standardisation of airway bills and product shipments.
What’s the best airport in the world, and why?
No question—it’s Hamad International Airport here in Doha. It’s brilliant, beautiful, big, has everything you could ever want, and is easy to transport. I’ve been around the world, and it is by far the best airport—full stop.
How did you get into airfreight and logistics?
Completely by accident! I was talking to Terry, my boss, one day, and he said, “Hey, do you want to head up cargo?” I had never thought about it before, but because Terry offered it, I said, “Yeah, I’ll do it.”
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
A senior leader early in my career told me, “Data and information are key to being successful.” I absolutely live by that today.
What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?
When I was in college, I climbed Mount Kenya.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Flying—I would love to fly.
Cats or dogs?
Dogs.
Early riser or night owl?
I’m a night owl, but lately, I don’t sleep much, so I guess I’m both.
Who is your role model?
My role models are my mom and dad.
