Qatar boosts pharma service

Qatar Airways Cargo is expanding the specialist container options for its QR Pharma service, which has handled 14,100 tonnes of pharmaceutical products since launching in January 2014. 
The Middle East carrier is adding Va-Q-tec container technology, a new QR Pharma advanced passive transportation method that joins Qatar Airways Cargo’s existing Envirotainer and CSafe active container fleet.
Perth, Australia has also been announced as Qatar Airways Cargo’s 54th global QR Pharma station.
The airline, which became the world’s fifth largest cargo carrier in January 2015, based on FTKs, says that it has rapidly expanded its presence in the pharma airfreight sector, "establishing 4.1 per cent of the European east bound market within its the year of operating in the niche sector".
Ulrich Ogiermann, Qatar Airways chief officer cargo, said: "The pharmaceutical industry is witnessing rapid growth each year, and with rising demand there is the need to ensure that pharmaceuticals and healthcare products are transported with the utmost care while avoiding any temperature fluctuations.
"Qatar Airways Cargo offers healthcare companies and their logistic partners a state-of-the-art service for shipping temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals all over the world, while maintaining the integrity and quality of their products throughout the supply chain.
"We have recently secured contracts with two multinational pharmaceutical companies Novartis and Alcon."
Ogiermann added: "We are growing our pharmaceutical business and the achievements we have made within the first 12 months of the QR Pharma product launch have exceeded our expectations.
"Our success has been achieved by offering customers a unique product that utilises innovative technology and is supported by a dedicated team of experts who deliver a service to the highest standards."