In the bustling world of air cargo, Jason Thomas, CEO, MAS Kargo, takes centre stage as he discusses the airline’s strategic endeavours in the dynamic market of India. In an interview with CARGOTALK, he unveils his company’s ambitious plans, emphasizing the significance of this region in the airline’s global expansion.
CT Bureau
As we chart our course into India, I am thrilled to share our strategic vision. We recently launched three new routes from Kuala Lumpur to Ahmadabad, Trivandrum, and Amritsar. India holds a special place for us, not only as a destination, but as a vital region for expansion.”
Cargo dynamics
“In the realm of air cargo, we have been flying our freighters to India for the longest time, never pulling out. Our expanded battery capacity from the passenger side complements our cargo operations, allowing us to serve India more efficiently. From perishables to pharmaceuticals cargo, electronics, and automotive parts, we are tapping into the diverse markets of India.”
Beyond borders
“Having witnessed the evolution of Indian airports over the years, particularly in Chennai, the improvements are commendable. The seamless trucking network in the south, especially in Bengaluru and Chennai, has played a pivotal role in our strategic decisions. We choose to fly our freighters to Chennai due to its robust trucking network.”
Call to choose MAS Kargo
“While competition in the region is fierce, our commitment to service delivery, customer experience, and operational excellence sets us apart. We may not have the expansive network of some competitors, but our dedication is unwavering. We invite the trade to ‘try us out’ and experience the unique service MAS Kargo offers.”
Global challenges
“As we emerge from the challenges of COVID, we have seen a temporary slowdown but remain cautiously optimistic. Our commitment to sustainability is evident—from operating the first SAF fuel flight to aiming for net zero by 2030. We have integrated solar panels in our warehouses, emphasizing a sustainable approach to our operations.”
AI in operations
“Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into our operations has been a transformative journey. Challenges exist, especially in terms of the financial investment required, but the benefits are immense. From enhancing ground operations to predictive analytics on the commercial front, AI is shaping the future of our industry. It is about finding the delicate balance between technology investment and cost management.”
Glimpse into the future
“As we look ahead, we leverage AI-driven data to inform our strategic decisions. Exploring network expansion and capacity enhancement through alliances and partnerships is on our horizon. The ACAAI Convention in Kuala Lumpur provides a platform to showcase our capabilities, and I am honoured that the organizers chose Kuala Lumpur as the destination. We hope to expand and build relationships beyond networking.”