Qatar Airways Cargo transports42m red roses for Valentine’s Day

Published: 16 February 2025

Roses from Kenya and South America taken to key markets including Amsterdam, Middle East, Asia and Australia

NT Bureau
Doha

Qatar Airways Cargo has transported 2,800 tonnes of flowers, the equivalent of 42 million fresh-cut red roses, from Kenya and South America in time for Valentine’s Day this year. Air cargo news reported.
From Nairobi, the carrier transported almost 1,600 tonnes of red roses on its scheduled flights and charters.

Additionally, from Bogota and Quito, it carried close to 1,200 tonnes to key markets including Amsterdam, Middle East, Asia and Australia.

In addition to its regular scheduled passenger-and-cargo flights, the cargo carrier operated nine (9) additional Boeing 777 charters from Nairobi and ten (10) additional charters from Quito leading up to Valentine’s Day to support the increased demand during this peak season.

“Both Kenya and South America’s floriculture sectors are success stories that must be celebrated and supported. Both countries are well-known for producing incredibly beautiful cut roses of unparalleled quality,” said Mark Drusch, chief officer cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo.

“As the world’s leading air cargo carrier, we are proud to be able to play our part in sharing this great product with the world and supporting the local economies of Kenya and, Bogota and Quito,” he added.
Drusch noted that as part of the carrier’s commitment to contribute to socio-economic development, Qatar Airways Cargo increased capacity by adding extra charter freighters to connect Kenya, Bogota and Quito’s floriculture sector to key markets and customers worldwide through its network of over 170 passenger and 60 freighter destinations.

The additional charter flights are in addition to our scheduled passenger-and-cargo flights.

“Because of Valentine’s Day, February is a crucial month and important economic opportunity for the floriculture sector. Qatar Airways Cargo’s services are critical in helping reward the dedicated farm workers, farmers and entrepreneurs behind this blossoming agribusiness sector,” he said.

The cargo carrier operates its Boeing 777 freighter for both freighter and charter services, making this aircraft essential for maintaining on-time performance.

Through its Fresh product, the carrier ensures a cool chain for all flowers transported on its flights from origin, ensuring they arrive fresh and on time.