Qatar Airways Cargo is now the third largest international cargo airline in the world, according to the latest IATA international figures.

The numbers mark rapid growth for the company, which has risen from 16th place in five years. The airline now boasts a freighter fleet of six Airbus 330s, eight Boeing 777s and one Boeing 747.

“Being in the top three international cargo carriers in the world reflects the hard work and commitment of the Qatar Airways Cargo team over the past five years,” said Akbar al-Baker, group chief executive of Qatar Airways. “Our cargo capability is a major component in driving our group success and growth, and it will remain a focus of our expansion in the coming years.”

Al-Baker also revealed plans to create a second, even larger cargo terminal at the airline’s hub in Hamad International Airport in Doha. The new facility, combined with the current facility, will allow Qatar Airways Cargo to handle 4.4 million tons of cargo a year, an increase from today’s 1.4-million ton capacity.

“The new cargo terminal, which is scheduled to open in 2018, underlines our commitment to continued growth and expansion in line with the airline’s group objectives for the future,” said Ulrich Ogiermann, Qatar Airways chief cargo officer. “Having the ability to handle 4.4 million tons of cargo a year will put Qatar Airways Cargo into another league, and enhance the efficiency and service already offered at our existing state-of-the-art facility.”

Al-Baker indicated that future plans also include building further capacity for cargo at Hamad International Airport, to up to seven million tons, after current expansion plans are complete.