Menzies Aviation, the global aviation logistics specialist, and Qatar Airways Cargo, the world’s leading cargo carrier, announce a new long-term agreement to provide cargo handling, freighter aircraft handling and cargo transportation to/from aircraft at London Heathrow Airport.

The move is part of a joint approach to develop Qatar Airways Cargo’s global network handling partnership programme. Menzies will be enhancing its delivery and collection process for the forwarding and trucking community as part of the agreement. They also plan to invest in special product handling capabilities with a key focus on pharmaceutical and temperature-controlled commodities.

Qatar Airways Cargo will also benefit from a dedicated reception area and operations office as well as bespoke office accommodation and gym for all employees. Warehouse capacity for the handling of passenger and freighter cargo will exceed 7000 square meters, the largest dedicated warehouse capacity solution ever provided by Menzies at Heathrow. Qatar Airways Cargo will move into Menzies’ cargo facilities from September 1.

Robert Fordree, Menzies Aviation executive vice president, Cargo, said: “We are delighted that Qatar Airways Cargo has appointed Menzies as their new handler. This award is the result of a close working relationship in a number of global locations which has enabled us to develop a deep understanding of the cargo carrier’s requirements. It shows our renewed focus on our global cargo business and a clear strategy to partner with global carriers at multiple locations is beginning to deliver results.

“With Qatar Airways Cargo moving back to an on-airport facility at London Heathrow, we see longer term benefits in working closely with the airport to firstly, enhance the Shoreham Road cargo access point and ultimately, to move into their proposed new purpose built, on-airport, cargo infrastructure.

Guillaume Halleux, chief officer cargo at Qatar Airways said: “We are glad to appoint Menzies Aviation as our ground handling partner in London Heathrow. We share the same values of customer-centricity and service excellence and believe this partnership will enable us to offer smooth and seamless handling for all types of cargo, especially pharmaceuticals and temperature-controlled freight.”