Finnair Cargo, a fully owned subsidiary of Finnair, has expanded its network after signing an innovative freighter sharing deal with IAG Cargo.

The route will be operated by an A300-600 cargo freighter, which will fly between London and Helsinki.

London becomes Finnair’s third cargo hub in Europe in addition to Helsinki and Brussels.

The creation of the new cargo bridge, which will connect the two carrier’s networks, is an important strategic move for Finnair Cargo.

It will enable the opening of tens of new destinations in North America in addition to its current routes.

Antti Kuusenmäki, vice president, Finnair Cargo, commented: “We are happy to announce the opening of our third hub in London, which is continuing the home market expansion we successfully started by establishing the Brussels hub three years ago.

“This partnership with IAG Cargo offers our customers considerably improved connections between Asia and the UK, and adds tens of new great connections between our Nordic home market, North America and Asia.”

The freighter, which has a 43 ton capacity, will fly twice a week and provides Finnair with the ability to easily route cargo through London.

Steve Gunning, chief executive of IAG Cargo, commented: “With Finnair’s excellent reach into Asia and our strength in the Americas, this deal will open up new markets for our customers while supporting the responsible management of capacity on our network.”