MSC has taken delivery of a new B777-200 freighter.

The aircraft is the first MSC-branded plane and it will fly on routes between China, the US, Mexico and Europe, operated by Atlas Air.

MSC senior vice-president air cargo Jannie Davel said the delivery of the aircraft marks the start of MSC’s long-term investment in air cargo

“Our customers need the option of air solutions, which is why we’re integrating this transportation mode to complement our extensive maritime and land cargo operations,” Mr Davel said.

“Since I started at MSC, I have spoken to numerous partners and customers right across the market and it is very clear that air cargo can enable a range of companies to meet their logistics needs. Flying adds options, speed, flexibility and reliability to supply chain management, and there are particular benefits for moving perishables, such as fruit and vegetables, pharmaceutical and other healthcare products and high-value goods.”

Atlas Air is supporting MSC on an aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance basis. This aircraft is the first of four B777-200Fs in the pipeline, which are being placed on a long-term basis with MSC, providing dedicated capacity to support the ongoing development of the business.

The B777-200F twin-engine aircraft has been commended for its advanced fuel efficiency measures. It also has low maintenance and operating costs, and, with a range of 4880 nautical miles (9038 kilometres), it can fly further than any other aircraft in its class. It also meets quota count standards for maximum accessibility to noise sensitive airports around the globe.