Cargolux to India via Oman.

In its quest for new routes to India, Cargolux Airlines has found a new partner in the sultanate of Oman, which has been looking to expand its cargo capacity. Beginning April 15, the all-cargo carrier will begin full freighter service from Luxembourg to India by way of Muscat, Oman.

Oman Air and Cargolux also signed a letter of intent last month, with a formal signing to take place April 16, when the first Cargolux freighter arrives in Muscat International. The agreement enables Cargolux to use Oman Air's facilities in Muscat, Salalah and Sohar.

The Times of Oman reported that Oman recently launched a pan-Gulf Cooperative Council (GCC) and pan-European trucking services, as well as a joint cargo service with DHL operating between Oman and Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

After the program rollout, Cargolux plans to increase frequencies to Oman to several each week, with connections to Chennai, Mumbai and Hyderabad in India. Other cities in India are under consideration, as well as connections to Europe, China, Africa and the United States. Oman Air will provide access to Cargolux to use the bellies of its passenger planes, which fly to 11 destinations in India and three in Pakistan, plus other destinations in Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.