MASkargo executes extended P2C flight to Melbourne.
MASkargo recently executed an extended P2C flight when the airline received approval to carry cargo in the cabin from the authorities. Flight MH149 departed the KLIA with 35 tonnes of cargo, of which about 3 tonnes were secured beneath the seats and in the overhead storage compartment of zones B & C in the cabin.
“We took a measured approach to the loading of cargo inside the cabin of our A330-200 passenger aircraft to optimize our operations and capacity. At this critical time where there is a huge demand for air freight services, we are sensitive to the need for trade and commerce to continue. However, the safety element is the principle factor when considering the in-cabin load. Due consideration was given when pitting potential risks to the operations against market demand. Once the evaluation was completed, we listed the guideline and procedure on the approved cargo for cabin loading”, said Mohd. Zulkefly Ujang, Chief Operations Officer of MASkargo.
Loading work started at about 1730hrs, a good five hours before the flight departure time. The MASkargo and Aerodarat Services teams worked in coordination to fit more than 700 boxes of gloves into the cabin of the Malaysia Airlines passenger aircraft bearing registration 9M-MTK.
“Air cargo has a compelling role in connecting the world with vital goods and lifeline products. When distances and barriers separate us, air cargo connects! Given the current circumstances, our service operates under strict regulatory procedures, adhering to guidelines on aircraft sanitization for the safety of our crew,” said Ibrahim Mohamed Salleh, MASkargo’s Chief Executive Officer.
The aircraft returned from Melbourne as MH 148, a rescue flight for Malaysians stranded since the Movement Control Order began on the 18th of March 2020.