Latest news with #QatarAirwaysCargo
IOL News
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Goliath and Coralie: Rescued circus lions find sanctuary in South Africa
Circus lions Goliath and Coralie have been released at the Animal Defenders International (ADI) Wildlife Sanctuary in the Free State after spending a decade in a small cage in France. Image: Supplied After a decade of being confined to a tiny, bare circus cage in France, lions Goliath and Coralie are free to roam a huge 2.5-acre enclosure at the Animal Defenders International (ADI) Wildlife Sanctuary in the Free State. The lions were transported from France to South Africa via Doha, on a flight donated by Qatar Airways Cargo as part of their WeQare programme. They will live the rest of their lives with dozens of rescued lions, tigers, and other animals at the sanctuary. ADI president Jan Creamer, who accompanied the animals on their journey to what the organisation described as 'the land of their ancestors', said Goliath and Coralie lived the first half of their lives in a cage on a truck; now they get to live as lions should. 'When you see these two magnificent lions living so close to what nature intended, it shows how wrong it is to keep them in circus cages, just for entertainment,' said Creamer. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Creamer said these lions suffered a lifetime of deprivation and abuse, living in a tiny cage, bare floorboards, behind bars, with no regard given to their well-being or physical needs. They had no freedom of movement and no space to roam. She said these lions will now enjoy life under the African sunshine, in their native homeland, where they can run, play, chase the local wildlife, or snooze in the grass. The organisation highlights that this rescue marks another important step in the global Stop Circus Suffering campaign, which has seen more than 50 countries (and seven US states) ban wild animals in circuses. The ADI Wildlife Sanctuary specialises in helping to enforce these bans. ADI, based in London, has conducted extensive rescue missions to implement circus bans in Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, and Guatemala. These efforts included the airlift of significant numbers of animals, specifically 75 lions as well as 40 monkeys in various operations. According to the organisation, due to the abuse these lions have suffered, their years of confinement, deprivation, and inbreeding, it is not possible to return them to the wild. 'Goliath and Coralie's flight to freedom marks the beginning of the end for wild animal acts in France. In 2021, France passed a law phasing out wild animals in circuses, prohibiting further breeding and setting minimum welfare standards, with a full ban coming into force in 2028,' it said. ADI said the new regulations enabled Goliath and Coralie to be seized from the circus following an investigation by France's Free Life Association. The lions were taken into Tonga Terre d'Accueil, a temporary holding facility for confiscated wildlife near Lyon, and ADI offered to provide a forever home in South Africa. 'Goliath and Coralie are currently in a 2.5-acre quarantine unit at ADIWS where they have received a full medical examination, vaccinations, and a battery of health checks. After the quarantine period, they will move to a huge 7.5-acre habitat,' said ADI. Mark Drusch, chief cargo officer at Qatar Airways Cargo, said he is proud to once again support ADI by bringing these two beautiful lions home to Africa. Drusch said the airline's WeQare Rewild the Planet initiative is a commitment to returning wildlife and endangered species to their natural habitat, free of charge. 'It takes a lot of effort and logistics for our team to organise moving such large animals; from the logistics at the airports, loading and unloading the animals from the aircraft, to ensuring the correct cages and wellbeing of the animals are in place, but it is something we are all collectively very proud and passionate to be a part of.' Circus lion Goliath had spent a decade in a small cage in France. Image: Supplied Circus lion Goliath. Image: Supplied Circus lions Goliath and Coralie were transported to the Animal Defenders International (ADI) Wildlife Sanctuary in the Free State. Image: Supplied Circus lions Goliath and Coralie were released at the Animal Defenders International (ADI) Wildlife Sanctuary. Image: Supplied Circus lion Coralie. Image: Supplied Circus lion Goliath. Image: Supplied
IOL News
06-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Lions Goliath and Coralie escape circus life to find freedom in South Africa
Coralie and Goliath Image: Supplied In a heartwarming turn of events, two lions, Goliath and Coralie, have stepped into a new chapter of their lives after spending over a decade confined in a cramped circus cage in France. Today, they bask in the African sunshine, roaming freely in a sprawling 2.5-acre enclosure at the Animal Defenders International (ADI) Wildlife Sanctuary, located in South Africa. Their remarkable journey began with a generous airlift funded by Qatar Airways Cargo as part of their WeQare programme, which emphasises the importance of animal welfare. Accompanied by ADI President Jan Creamer, Goliath and Coralie have traded their truck-bound cage for the vast, open plains that echo the lands of their ancestors. 'When you see these two magnificent lions living so close to what nature intended, it shows how wrong it is to keep them in circus cages, just for entertainment,' Creamer stated. 'Goliath and Coralie lived the first half of their lives in a cage on a truck; now they get to live as lions should.' Jan Creamer and D. Peter Caldwell giving the giant cats water at the Paris CDG airport Image: Supplied Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading The rescue of these lions is part of a significant movement against the use of wild animals in circuses, aptly named the Stop Circus Suffering campaign. This initiative has resulted in more than 50 countries, including seven US states, implementing bans on the exploitation of wild animals for entertainment purposes. The ADI Wildlife Sanctuary is dedicated to enforcing these protective bans. Based in London, ADI has proactively engaged in numerous rescue operations across Latin America, helping to liberate wild animals from circuses in Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, and Guatemala. These efforts have included impressive airlifts that have seen 33, 25, and 17 lions, along with 40 monkeys rescued at a time. Due to the extended abuse, confinement, and in-breeding that Goliath and Coralie have endured, returning them to the wild is not a viable option. The ADI Wildlife Sanctuary stands as a crucial refuge for animals like them, ensuring they live out their days in a safe and natural environment.
Zawya
02-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
IAG Cargo, Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo prepare for launch of Global Cargo Joint Business
Munich, Germany, At a press conference held at Air Cargo Europe in Munich, IAG Cargo, Qatar Airways Cargo and MAB Kargo Sdn Bhd (MASkargo) discussed their intention to move forward with the launch of their Global Cargo Joint Business. Following the initial announcement in April 2025, the partnership is now targeting a formal launch in late 2025, subject to regulatory approvals. The global partnership will deliver new routing opportunities, increased operational agility, and unparalleled connectivity for customers across the global air freight market. The Global Cargo Joint Business' value proposition lies in enhanced routing flexibility and capacity options connecting APAC, the Middle East, Africa, the Indian Subcontinent, Europe, and the Americas. The partnership will unlock new routings not previously available via a single booking, opening fresh trade opportunities across the world. At launch, the parties will focus on key cargo markets, with additional countries expected to be included in future phases, in line with regulatory approvals. The three carriers will be working to progressively align systems, processes, and commercial offerings to ensure a smooth rollout for customers. Streamlined products, services, enhanced digital solutions and a combined Avios loyalty proposition are expected to form part of the collective offering in due course. The carriers will look to optimise freighter and belly hold capacity across their combined networks, improving efficiency and flexibility for customers. Additionally, coordinated ground handling and trucking will deliver a smoother experience for customers booking their cargo through the new cargo joint business. At the same time, the three carriers will enter into individual agreements with the UN World Food Programme (WFP), the largest humanitarian organization fighting hunger, very soon. First announced at Air Cargo Europe, the three carriers will propose to provide in total 1000 tonnes of free tonnage to support WFP in the delivery of essential food supplies and commodities. This initiative reflects Global Cargo Joint Business' unified commitment to humanitarian aid and the broader goal of ending world hunger. David Shepherd, Chief Executive Officer at IAG Cargo, added: 'This proposed joint business represents a real step change for our customers. By creating this single network, we are creating new connections which unlock new commercial opportunities. This network will be more efficient, reliable, and coordinated than anything offered through traditional interline agreements. 'Just as we are focused on delivering for our customers, we are equally committed to making a positive impact in the communities in which we operate, which is why we are delighted that this includes backing the vital work of the World Food Programme.' Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, said: "We are thrilled to discuss the upcoming launch of our groundbreaking partnership on the sidelines of Air Cargo Munich. Together, we will deliver unparalleled service and efficiency, ensuring that our customers receive the very best in air cargo solutions. Moreover, this collaboration allows us to contribute meaningfully to corporate social responsibility by supporting the World Food Programme. Together, we are utilising our strong networks to make a positive impact on communities around the world, showcasing the true power of partnership.' Mark Jason Thomas, Chief Executive Officer at MASkargo, commented: "This partnership is a major milestone for MASkargo and the global cargo industry. By teaming up with Qatar Airways Cargo and IAG Cargo, we're extending our reach and unlocking seamless connectivity across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas. It's more than network expansion; it's about transforming how cargo moves worldwide. As the leading cargo carrier in our region, MASkargo has always been committed to connecting Asia with the world. This collaboration takes us further, delivering greater value, reach, and efficiency for our customers. We're also proud to support the World Food Programme's mission, reinforcing our belief that logistics can be a powerful force for good." 'This collaboration reflects the growing role of the private sector in accelerating humanitarian response,' said Virginia Villar Arribas, WFP's Deputy Director for Private Sector Partnerships. 'We are excited to work with Qatar Airways Cargo, IAG Cargo, and MASkargo to shape an approach that can help WFP deliver faster, more efficiently, and at scale.' The partners remain focused on obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals and are progressing towards the scheduled launch in late 2025. More updates will be shared as the go-live date approaches. About Qatar Airways Cargo Qatar Airways Cargo, the world's leading international air cargo carrier is based in Doha, Qatar. It serves a global network of more than 60 freighter destinations and 160 passenger destinations utilising freighters and belly-hold passenger aircraft. The airline's freighter fleet includes 28 Boeing 777 freighters and over 230 belly-hold planes. It also has an extensive road feeder service (RFS) network. The cargo airline is the launch customer for the innovative Boeing 777-8F featuring advanced technology, and a 25 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and emissions, with the first delivery due to arrive in 2027. As a market leader, the cargo carrier provides high operating standards for the transportation of cargo, with considerable investments in digitalisation, products, facilities, and services. Qatar Airways Cargo remains committed to sustainability and giving back to communities it serves through its sustainability program WeQare, built on the key pillars of sustainability: environment, society, economy, and culture. About IAG Cargo IAG Cargo is the single business created following the merger of British Airways World Cargo and Iberia Cargo in April 2011. Following the integration of additional airlines into the business, including Aer Lingus, Vueling and LEVEL, IAG Cargo now covers a global network covering six continents. In 2024, IAG Cargo had a commercial revenue of €1,234 million. Its parent company, International Airlines Group, is one of the world's largest airline groups with 601 aircraft on 31st December 2024. About MASkargo MAB Kargo Sdn. Bhd. (MASkargo) is the cargo division of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG). Specializing in providing comprehensive air cargo solutions, MASkargo offers a wide range of services, including scheduled and chartered air freight, cargo terminal handling, and integrated logistics solutions via air, land, and sea transportation. With dedicated belly capacity and freighter operations, complemented by robust partnerships with leading cargo carriers, MASkargo's expansive network is able to reach over 100 destinations worldwide. MASkargo is also the premier Cargo Terminal Operator in eleven airports throughout Malaysia, serving the cargo handling needs of over 40 carriers, including some of the leading names in the industry. Its flagship state-of-the-art 108-acre complex in Kuala Lumpur International Airport is equipped with advanced cargo handling facilities and is the nation's only fully automated cargo terminal. With a processing area of 92,900 square metres, the facility has an annual capacity of handling up to one million tonnes of cargo, with the potential for expansion to three million tonnes. MASkargo is a trusted global brand and is recognised as one of Asia's leading air cargo carriers. About IAG Loyalty IAG Loyalty is a pioneer in the loyalty industry with over 30 years of experience. It's home to British Airways Holidays and Avios - the loyalty currency of British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, Vueling, Qatar Airways, Finnair and Loganair. With a vision to create the world's most rewarding experiences, IAG Loyalty enables more than 69 million members worldwide to collect and redeem Avios through a diverse range of partners spanning retail, travel and financial services. Its parent company, International Airlines Group (IAG), is one of the world's largest airline groups with 600+ aircraft carrying more than 122 million customers to 260 destinations across 91 countries each year. Avios is one of the world's most flexible and rewarding loyalty currencies—interoperable across seven airlines and widely used across 69m members worldwide.
Gulf Business
20-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Qatar Airways reports record-breaking financials for FY2024-25
Image: Qatar Airways Qatar Airways has posted its strongest financial performance in the company's history, with net profits reaching QAR7.85bn ($2.15bn) for the 2024-25 fiscal year. The results represent a year-on-year increase of more than 28 per cent, or QAR1.7bn ($0.5bn), and mark a milestone in the airline's strategic transformation under its renewed 'Qatar Airways 2.0' strategy. The group's portfolio includes Qatar Airways, Qatar Airways Cargo, catering services, and Qatar Duty Free. The strong results were attributed to strategic agility, talent development, and enhanced digital capabilities across the business. Qatar Airways 2.0 strategy is a key enabler 'This record-breaking performance is a testament to the hard work, skill, and dedication of our global team of over 55,000 professionals,' said Engineer Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, Qatar Airways groupCEO. 'Our Qatar Airways 2.0 strategy focuses on empowering talent, fostering innovation, and building strategic partnerships that help us navigate an ever-changing global landscape — be it political, economic, or environmental.' Qatar Airways Cargo, already ranked as the world's largest air cargo carrier, recorded a 17 per cent year-on-year increase in revenue. The division posted its best financial results since the Covid-19 pandemic, driven by adaptive market strategies, investment in digitalisation, and enhanced operational reliability. Qatar Airways Group announces strongest financial results in its history: Profits for the Group reached QAR 7.85 bn (US$2.15bn) in the 24/25 fiscal year – an increase of more than QAR 1.7bn (US$0.5bn) on the year before. For more information: — Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) In numbers: Major milestones and strategic investments Key highlights from the group's financial year include: A 28 per cent year-on-year profit growth. Expansion of Hamad International Airport, now capable of handling 65 million passengers annually. Becoming the first global airline — and the first in the MENA region — to install Starlink super-fast WiFi on its Boeing 777 fleet. Acquisition of a 25 per cent stake in Virgin Australia. Purchase of a 25 per cent interest in South Africa's regional airline, Airlink. Deployment of 'Sama', the airline's world-first conversational AI-powered digital cabin crew. Signing of various technical memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to diversify operations and align with Qatar National Vision 2030. 'We continue to offer and develop exceptional services—whether it's our award-winning Qsuite, in-flight fine dining, or complimentary high-speed Starlink internet,' Al-Meer added. Qatar Airways has also placed major
Zawya
20-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Qatar Airways Cargo transports over 1.5mln tonnes of air freight in 2024-25
Doha, Qatar: Qatar Airways Cargo transported over 1.5 million tonnes in the financial year April 1, 2024 – March 1, 2025 making it the largest freight carrier with 7.11% market share. Over the past 12 months, it has solidified position as the world's leading air cargo carrier, Qatar Airways Group said in its annual report for 2024/25, released yesterday. Investments in fleet expansion and network enhancements enabled new freighter services to Abu Dhabi and Sharjah in the UAE, Vienna, Austria, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and London Heathrow, UK. In Asia, frequencies were added to Hong Kong and China. The cargo carrier operated 2019 charters, including MotoGP, for which Qatar Airways Cargo is the Official Cargo Airline, and Formula 1, for which Qatar Airways is the Global Partner and Official Airline. In 2024, there was a strong focus on partnerships, specifically with MASkargo, the cargo airline and subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group, Cainiao, a global leader in e-commerce logistics, Japan Airlines Cargo, Qatar Postal Services Company (Qatar Post) and MotoGP. Meanwhile Qatar Airways Cargo continues to focus on deploying modern digital technology in the cargo industry. The air cargo carrier is driving efficiencies through digital innovation, introducing enhancements to its e-booking portal, expanding its omnichannel offering and introducing digitalisation to many of its processes, thereby driving speed, accuracy and enhancing customer experience, the report noted. Bookings via its Digital Lounge e-booking platform was close to 36% as of 31 March 2025. Qatar Airways Cargo became the first cargo carrier to allow interline partners to book capacity online. For an improved e-booking experience, Octoloop by Cargo Flash was introduced as its digital cargo booking platform via its wallet services to a total of 10 India destinations. Partnership with UNISYS, through its Cargo Portal Service platform, extends e-booking capabilities to new and existing customers, enabling freight forwarders to better access the airline's extensive network. The cargo carrier became the first airline to go live with CARGOSTACK Optimiser, the AI-driven Revenue Management suite of Wiremind Cargo, a member of Cargo Tech. The 2024-25 financial year saw the launch of new products such as, AirPlus Solutions - Q-Climate, Q-Plus and Q-Prime services to elevate customer shipments; Aerospace – A tailor-made solution for the aviation, defence and space technology sectors; and TechLift – A solution for semiconductor products, supporting electronics, high tech, AI, communications, satellites and automotive industries. Also, Qatar Airways Cargo inaugurated its state-of-the-art Animal Centre at the Doha hub, which is the largest single-carrier facility in the world. The 5,260 sqm fully temperature-controlled facility is equipped with many cutting-edge features including - Kennel Capacity: 140 dog kennels and 40 cat kennels; Horse Stables: 24 stables distributed in 4 zones with separate airflows for proper segregation; manned by trained veterinary staff 24/7. As a part of its WeQare initiative, in 2024 Qatar Airways Cargo renewed its existing sponsorship with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, to support free shipment of up to 400 tonnes of relief items to the most vulnerable refugees and displaced people worldwide. Through its WeQare 'Rewild the Planet' initiative, the cargo carrier transported 67 shipments equalling 23, 500 kilograms, supporting organisations such as United for Wildlife and Animal Defenders International. Special cases included 47 ring-tailed and brown lemurs, 155 radiated tortoises, 757 spider tortoises and seven lions. Qatar Airways Cargo is the world's largest international air cargo carrier, delivering quality air freight solutions and connecting businesses to more than 70 freighter and 170 belly-hold destinations. © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
