Air Cargo - AeroTime

FedEx plans MD-11 return by late May 2026, a day after UPS retires its fleet

Stephen Pope — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 02:00:00 +0000

FedEx has announced that it is working with Boeing and the Federal Aviation Administration to return its grounded MD-11 cargo aircraft to service by the end of May 2026, even as rival UPS has retired the type in the wake of a crash in November 2025 that killed 15 people.

FedEx confirmed that inspections and maintenance actions are underway as part of its effort to resume MD-11 operations. The company grounded the aircraft type following the fatal crash involving the UPS-operated MD-11 in Louisville, Kentucky.

“We continue to work with Boeing and the FAA to address any required inspection and maintenance that may be needed to return our MD-11 aircraft safely to service,” FedEx declared, in a statement cited by Reuters. The company said it is targeting a return to service by May 31, though it has not disclosed how many aircraft will be involved in the initial restart.

The announcement came one day after UPS confirmed it has officially retired its entire MD-11 fleet, accelerating the type’s exit from US cargo operations. UPS disclosed the move during its fourth-quarter 2025 earnings report, marking the end of more than two decades of MD-11 service at the carrier.

FedEx is now one of the last major US operators of the MD-11, which has long played a central role in its long-haul cargo network. The aircraft remains popular for freight operations due to its payload capability and range, though the aging tri-jet has faced increasing scrutiny following recent accidents and maintenance findings.

The UPS crash, which occurred shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, killed the three crewmembers on board as well as 12 people on the ground. The National Transportation Safety Board is continuing to investigate the accident, which has become a focal point for industry concerns surrounding the MD-11’s continued operation.

Earlier this month, the NTSB disclosed that investigators had found a cracked component on the UPS aircraft involved in the crash. According to the agency, Boeing had flagged the part more than a decade ago. Officials have not commented on whether or not the issue contributed to the accident, and no conclusions have yet been reached. The investigation remains ongoing.

FedEx has not said whether the MD-11 grounding could lead to longer-term changes in its fleet strategy. The company also declined to say whether it plans to accelerate retirements, or limit MD-11 operations, once the aircraft returns to service.

The MD-11 entered service in the early 1990s and became a mainstay of cargo fleets after passenger airlines phased out the type. While several international operators continue to fly the aircraft, its presence in the US has steadily declined as carriers shift toward newer twin-engine freighters.

According to FedEx, it will provide updates as the return-to-service process progresses.

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UPS retires MD-11 freighter fleet in aftermath of Louisville crash

Stephen Pope — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 19:26:42 +0000

UPS has fully retired its fleet of McDonnell Douglas MD‑11F freighters, bringing an abrupt end to decades of trijet cargo operations following a deadly crash in 2025 that claimed the lives of three crewmembers and 12 people on the ground.

In its fourth-quarter 2025 earnings report, UPS confirmed that it completed the retirement of all 26 MD-11Fs it still owned, accelerating a longstanding fleet modernization plan in the wake of the fatal crash of UPS Airlines Flight 2976 in November 2025.

The decision marks a major shift for the logistics giant, which once relied on the MD-11 as a workhorse on long-haul international routes. The aircraft, an evolution of the McDonnell Douglas design later produced under Boeing after its 1997 merger, had been in service with UPS since the early 2000s.

Flight 2976, operating as a cargo service from Louisville, Kentucky, to Honolulu, lost its left-hand engine during takeoff on November 4 and crashed into an industrial area beyond the runway. The crash became one of the deadliest in UPS’s aviation history.

In the immediate aftermath, UPS grounded its entire MD-11 fleet “out of an abundance of caution” following recommendations from Boeing and directives from the Federal Aviation Administration. FedEx Express and other operators followed suit, temporarily grounding their own MD-11Fs as inspections and reviews began.

Prior to the crash, UPS had already been phasing out MD-11s in favor of more fuel-efficient, twin-engine freighters such as the Boeing 767‑300F and Boeing 777F. The MD-11’s retirement was part of that broader strategy, but the Louisville accident accelerated the timeline and effectively ended the type’s operational future with the carrier.

In financial filings, UPS reported a $137 million non-cash, after-tax charge associated with writing off the retired MD-11 fleet. Company leadership said the transition was managed in a way that preserved network reliability even as the last trijets were withdrawn from service. Over the next 15 months, UPS plans to take delivery of 18 new Boeing 767s, 15 of which are scheduled to arrive in 2026, and will reduce reliance on leased aircraft as those new jets enter service.

The MD-11’s departure from UPS leaves it with a fleet centered on modern twins and mixed widebodies, including Boeing 747-8Fs, 757s, 767s and Airbus A300-600Fs.

With UPS’s exit, only a handful of MD-11Fs remain, most notably with FedEx Express and Western Global Airlines, both of which have grounded their MD-11 fleets while regulators complete inspections.

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Riyadh Cargo unveiled as Riyadh Air’s freighter operations division

Ian Molyneaux — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:23:55 +0000

Riyadh Cargo has been unveiled as Riyadh Air’s freighter operations division marking the beginning of belly-hold cargo flights across its 122 wide-body aircraft fleet.

On January 21, 2026, Riyadh Air described the new freighter service as a “core pillar of its commercial operations” as it looks to establish the Saudi Arabian capital as a “strategic global logistics hub”.

“The launch of the brand reflects a deliberate, phased approach to building a scalable and integrated cargo business, anchored at the airline’s Riyadh hub, and designed to grow in step with network expansion and operational maturity,” said a spokesperson for Riyadh Air.

According to the carrier, Riyadh Cargo has demonstrated operational momentum on the Riyadh to London-Heathrow (LHR) route, successfully transporting substantial cargo volumes across a wide spectrum of commodities.

“Riyadh Cargo has been built with a clear focus on operational discipline, reliability, and long-term scalability. Launching within a live environment allows us to test, learn, and continuously refine how we operate, while delivering real value to our customers from the get-go,” said Pravin Singh, Global Head of Cargo at Riyadh Air.

نفخر بالإعلان عن إطلاق "الرياض للشحن" في خطوة تمثل دخولنا رسميًا إلى سوق الشحن الجوي العالمي
وذلك ضمن نهج تدريجي ومدروس لبناء أعمال شحن متكاملة وقابلة للتوسع، مدعومة بأسطولنا عريض البدن، انطلاقًا من مركزنا الرئيسي في الرياض.
— Riyadh Air | طيران الرياض (@RiyadhAir) January 21, 2026

He added: “The launch of the brand is a foundational step in building a cargo business that grows alongside our network expansion and supports Saudi Arabia’s broader logistics ambitions.”

As part of its plans to launch cargo operations, Riyadh Air has partnered with CHAMPS’s Cargo spot-neo, a next-gen cargo end-to-end platform.

“The digital management system enables greater operational control, enhanced data visibility, and more responsive decision-making, supporting service reliability as volumes and network complexity expand,” said the airline spokesperson.

On the ground, cargo handling and hub management are delivered in partnership with SATS Saudi Arabia Company.

Services are provided at key airports across Saudi Arabia, including King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh, King Fahd International Airport (DMM) in Dammam, and King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah.

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Chapman Freeborn shortlisted for International Air Cargo Charter Broker award

Avia Solutions Group — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 12:21:27 +0000

Global charter specialist Chapman Freeborn has been shortlisted for International Air Cargo Charter Broker of the Year, recognizing its long-standing leadership in global air cargo charter solutions, operational excellence, and the delivery of complex and specialized charter operations.

Presented by STAT Publishing Group, the shortlist acknowledges Chapman Freeborn’s more than 50 years of experience in air cargo chartering since its founding in 1973, as well as its ability to deliver highly tailored solutions across diverse and demanding operational environments.

Operating independently, Chapman Freeborn retains the flexibility to source the most suitable aircraft and work with trusted operators worldwide, ensuring that each air cargo charter solution is fully aligned with the specific technical, regulatory, and operational requirements of its clients.

“Being shortlisted for the International Award for Excellence in Air Cargo is a testament to our team’s unwavering commitment to innovation, reliability, and customer-centric service,” says Bernardo Nunes, Group Chief Operating Officer at Chapman Freeborn. “This recognition reflects our dedication to setting the highest standards in global logistics and ensuring that our partners can keep their fleets flying with confidence.”

The shortlist reinforces Chapman Freeborn’s reputation as a trusted partner in global air cargo charter operations, underpinned by a commitment to reliability, compliance, and operational excellence across every mission.

Please take a moment to vote and support us:

STAT Times International Air Cargo Excellence Awards 2026

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Inside the ‘world’s first’ Boeing 737-800 passenger-cargo combi conversion

Ian Molyneaux — Fri, 09 Jan 2026 12:37:27 +0000

The team behind aircraft innovators KF Aerospace is celebrating the ‘world’s first’ Boeing 737-800 passenger-cargo combi conversion having received authorization to enter service.

On January 9, 2026, Canada-based KF Aerospace confirmed that Transport Canada had officially approved its modified 737-800 with the issuance of a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC #SA25-72).

The Air Inuit 737-800, which formerly flew for South African Comair until 2022, was adapted by KF Aerospace into a unique multi-role configuration.

The Boeing 737-800(C) comes with a forward cargo compartment, with five pallet positions and a 90-passenger cabin.

KF Aerospace

“This innovative layout makes it the first B737-800 aircraft of its kind anywhere in the world, with no comparable Combi currently in operation in the U.S., Europe, or other international markets,” a KF Aerospace spokesperson said.

The first 737-800(C), registered C-FTUW, was completed and delivered to Air Inuit in October 2025 as part of the airline’s fleet modernization.

The 737-800 Combi built on the proven AEI 737-800SF large cargo door, with the certification marking another milestone in the collaboration between KF Aerospace and AEI.

KF Aerospace

“The achievement of the 737-800 Combi underscores the power of a true partnership that KF and AEI have enjoyed over the course of three decades,” says Robert T. Convey, Senior Vice President at AEI. “By combining AEI’s cargo door conversion expertise with KF’s engineering and operational strengths, we are able to deliver a world-first Combi that unlocks new possibilities for operators worldwide.”

According to KF Aerospace, completion of the program required a substantial redesign of the aircraft’s interior and systems in order to meet stringent certification requirements.

KF Aerospace engineered and integrated fire detection, halon-based fire suppression, and advanced smoke-containment systems for the forward cargo section, while also modifying existing freighter-specific detection systems to meet combi-specific criteria.

KF Aerospace

The effort resulted in the creation of hundreds of new parts and custom-engineered solutions to make this technically complex modification program possible.

“This project reflects the ingenuity, dedication, and deep technical expertise of our entire team,” says Gregg Evjen, President of KF Aerospace. “KF is proud to deliver a world-first solution that expands what’s possible in aircraft conversion and supports our customers’ complex operational needs.”

KF Aerospace

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JALCARGO, JR East integrate Shinkansen and air cargo for regional export service

Jean Carmela Lim — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 11:18:18 +0000

JALCARGO and the JR East Group announced that the two companies are launching a new transportation service that combines Japan’s Shinkansen high-speed rail network with Japan Airline’s (JAL) global air cargo operations to accelerate regional exports.

The service, named “JAL de Hako-byun,” will begin operations on January 13, 2026, following a successful trial shipment from Sendai to Singapore in October 2025.

According to JAL, the initiative aims to connect local Japanese producers with international markets through a streamlined one-stop logistics solution.

By integrating the Shinkansen’s frequent and punctual service with JAL’s long-distance flights, the new offering significantly reduces transit times compared to conventional transport methods. The combination of JR East’s regional rail network in eastern Japan with JAL’s global air network enables broader international market access for premium local products.

JAL said the service also addresses sustainability and workforce challenges by utilizing rail transport to reduce driver shortages and lower carbon dioxide emissions through modal shifts.

The inaugural commercial shipment will transport Fukui Prefecture specialty seafood, including Echizen crab, Tsuruga sea bream, and Wakasa grouper, from Tsuruga to Taiwan. The cargo will travel via the Kagayaki No. 508 train to Tokyo, then on JAL flight 99 from Haneda Airport (HND) to Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA), with customs clearance at Taiwan Taoyuan Airport (TPE).

Hako-byun is a parcel transportation service operated by the JR East Group that leverages railway strengths including speed, punctuality, and environmental benefits to connect regions and promote local products.

JALCARGO operates JAL’s cargo and mail business using a network of passenger aircraft cargo space and three dedicated Boeing 767 freighters. The carrier handles pharmaceuticals, fresh products, express shipments, and chemical goods across its global network.

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Magma Aviation rolls out custom cargo management system for freighter operations

Avia Solutions Group — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 11:38:03 +0000

Magma Aviation takes pride in completing the rollout of its new digital transformation strategy with the debut of its fully-customized Cargo Management System (CMS), designed specifically to meet the unique operational needs of the air cargo industry. As a customer-focused organisation, this development demonstrates Magma Aviation’s dedication to creating modern and efficient internal processes that align with its long-term goal of providing its customers with a seamless experience.

Optimising daily operations throughout the organisation

As part of its digitalisation vision, Magma Aviation recognised the need to centralise operational data and eliminate the fragmentation that often affects freighter airlines. To date, many organisations still rely on multiple spreadsheets and fragmented systems, resulting in duplicated work, data inconsistencies, and internal misalignment.

To address this issue, Magma Aviation prioritised the creation of a single, connected environment allowing every department, from Commercial, Financial to Operations, to work from the same information source. This ensures that teams are more internally aligned and are capable of operating with more clarity, accuracy, and real-time visibility.

“As a customer-centric organisation, a CMS customised to our business model helps us to seamlessly coordinate internally as a team, and that it reflects the service quality we offer to our customers,” Paul Hoatson, Magma Aviation’s Head of Network Planning & Alliances reiterated.

Why a customised CMS matters in Air Cargo?

Air cargo operations in general require a specific level of speed, accuracy and data consistency. Despite this, some segments of the industry still rely on manual spreadsheets that restrict them from achieving their organization’s full operational efficiency

Off-the-shelf CMS often fail to meet the depth required for complex cargo environments. When Magma Aviation explored available CMS solutions in the market, it was evident that no existing software solution could meet the needs of their operational model or the level of integration the organisation required.

Following the successful implementation of the CMS across its organisation, its value has also been recognised by a key industry partner. In partnership with Forward Momentum, Magma has now been able to license the system for third-party use, extending the benefits of the platform to organisations that control their own freighter capacity without holding an AOC.

“As a technology partner, we are proud to be instrumental in helping freighter companies reach their full operational potential through a system solution designed for their business and able to grow with them as they scale in the future,” said Barry Zigner, CEO of Forward Momentum.

The CMS will continue to drive Magma Aviation’s growth ambitions while also supporting partners who can benefit from Magma’s digitalisation efforts. As the solution continues to undergo system developments, partners can expect future enhancements, including AI and machine learning capabilities, to further strengthen operational efficiency and decision-making.

Setting a new standard for digital operations in Air Cargo

Magma Aviation’s customised CMS is a long-term investment in the company’s support system, especially in an era where automation and collaboration are more prevalent than ever.

As customer experience continues to be its top priority, Magma Aviation remains fully committed to staying ahead of the competition by building tools and solutions that match its operational standards and its ambition for future growth.

Air cargo companies looking to explore a customised CMS solution to improve their operational efficiency and internal alignment can contact Jacek.Lechocki@magma.aero for further information.

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How Chapman Freeborn is adapting to a shifting air freight market

Avia Solutions Group — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 12:54:18 +0000

The global air freight market is shifting dramatically. In the last 12 months alone, we have witnessed major changes on a few of the busiest international trade lanes. The strong demand for flying e-commerce from Asia to the US, one of the largest trade lanes in the world, peaked in Q4 2024, and has tailed off significantly since then. This phenomenon, driven by changes in regulatory and trade policies, as well as market forces, has led to a gigantic shift in supply and demand in the global air freight market from 2024 to 2025.

Additional market factors have further constricted demand for air freight in other market sectors. Meanwhile, longer-term plans for nearshoring manufacturing, which were developed in the wake of the supply chain disruption caused by COVID-19, are being implemented in sectors such as the automotive industry. Nevertheless, demand for air freight in this sector is down overall.

In turbulent times, an adaptable business model is key

One thing is certain: we are living through a tumultuous period for international air freight. There are more unknown variables than in previous periods. These are coming from a range of sources, including government policy and capital trends. Looking forward, there is a lack of visibility and it is hard to predict in the near term what will happen to demand.

In this context, having a business model that enables rapid adaptation is a huge asset.

Thankfully, Chapman Freeborn has a 53-year track record of continuous evolution, which stands us in good stead during this current period of turbulence.

In fact, our air charter products and services are an ideal fit for a changing market place. From day one, the basis of Chapman Freeborn’s cargo model has been ad hoc charters and recurring charter programs. We have then added and integrated other value-add services, deliverables and teams on top of this strong foundation. We offer part-charters and priority air freight, and provide unique services including door-to-door pickup and hand carry transport solutions. Through mergers and acquisitions, we have added specialty brands that further diversify our offering such as Magma Aviation, a specialist operator of Boeing 747 cargo aircraft. We also have a specialist animal division, Intradco Global, and Arcus Aviation, which facilitates critical movements within Europe.

Adapting for different verticals

Our resilient business model means Chapman Freeborn is able to cater to many different types of global and regional users. This is crucial at a time when demand is growing in some verticals and contracting in others.

Defense

Defense is one vertical that is witnessing a significant uptick due to geopolitical dynamics. We have been able to allocate resources and add capability to meet this need, including adding compliance capability, cargo related training, air transport expertise, and full-time employees (FTEs) and to cater to this industry.

Aerospace

The Aerospace vertical has remained robust, with just-in-time manufacturing and air cargo transport still used extensively for the largest manufacturers. Because this sector works on multi-year production cycles, we have seen its demand for air cargo sustained through the year.

Energy

Energy is showing consistent, if not especially high, demand, in particular Oil & Gas. While the oil price is not optimal for profitability for the largest players, this remains a sector that has ongoing requirements for air cargo. When components at a rig or refinery are down, urgent air transportation is needed to get those facilities back online.

Automotive

We have witnessed a significant decline in air cargo demand in the automotive industry. There has been a drop off in demand for automotive just-in-time manufacturing, with charter work, both narrow-body and wide-body, witnessing noticeable declines. We may see some continuation of the trend for nearshoring, and Chapman Freeborn is ready and capable when it comes to providing chartered capacity and non-chartered capacity to meet nearshoring needs within the Americas region. This would typically be with narrow-body aircraft such as 737s, A321s or larger widebody B767s and larger.

The expertise to enable adaptation

Without the right talent and training, our flexible business model and wide range of deliverables would be redundant. That is why we are continuously adding to our team, and ensuring every specialist within Chapman Freeborn develops the necessary expertise.

Our number one function is air transportation, so with every new FTE it all starts with understanding aviation and aircraft. We ensure all team members deeply understand aviation fundamentals in terms of the mechanics of cargo transportation. Then it is about adding specialist competences. We have trained Hazmat and ITAR regulation experts who can work with defense articles and ordinance. We are TSA compliant, which means we have the compliance procedures in place and the experience to transport unique types of cargo. Finally, all of our FTEs must understand our standards. We expect every member of our team to be client-centric, mitigating risk for our customers and passing on their expertise to aid decision-making.

One particular benefit we bring to the table is our very strong regional set up. We have experienced team members not just in the US, but also in Canada, Mexico and Brazil. We are bringing new FTEs online in these areas continually, which means we can operate with local expertise rather than providing all of our services from a central hub.

Client-centricity baked in

We are focused on adding value for our customer base, which includes airforwarders, who we have the privilege of working with extensively. When markets are changing so quickly, our job is to be on hand to provide urgent air cargo services, including meeting unique and specialist needs. We are also relied on as consultants who can provide guidance in a shifting business environment, including in advance of business taking place.

Ultimately, thanks to our flexible business model and expertise, we are able to adapt fast to our clients’ requirements and provide rapid specialty air freight services as required.

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Emirates SkyCargo enters new era of logistics with future flight alliance

Ian Molyneaux — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 09:40:17 +0000

Emirates SkyCargo is investing in a new era of logistics, having signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with VTOL (Vertical Take Off and Landing) aircraft developer LODD Autonomous.

During the final day of the Dubai Air Show on November 21, 2025, Emirates SkyCargo and LODD Autonomous announced that they were forming a future flight alliance to “explore the development and deployment of next generation air cargo solutions”.

Abu Dhabi-based LODD is currently developing an unmanned, hybrid heavy-lift cargo aircraft called Hili, designed to carry up to 250 kilograms and travel up to 700 kilometers.

On November 13, 2025, during Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week, LODD Autonomous flew its autonomous drone for the first time at Emirates Falcon Aviation in Al Ain.

As part of their alliance, Emirates SkyCargo and LODD will work to validate the use of VTOL aircraft across the airline’s global network, through feasibility studies, regulatory engagement and live demonstrations.

In the presence of Zayed bin Mohamed bin Zayed, LODD Autonomous has conducted the first test flight of Hili, a hybrid heavy-lift cargo aircraft designed and manufactured entirely in Abu Dhabi. The aircraft can carry payloads of up to 250kg across distances of about 700km. pic.twitter.com/rpKvwTb7Vz
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) November 13, 2025

The program will run until the end of 2027, gathering insight to inform design and development, with a view toward commercial deployment in regional and global markets.

Badr Abbas, Emirates SkyCargo’s Divisional Senior Vice President, said: “This partnership with LODD is a reflection of our commitment to introduce innovative products that solve our customer’s transportation challenges. Emerging technologies will form the foundation of the next era of logistics, and Emirates SkyCargo will be at the forefront of this movement, investing our experience and expertise into the development of innovations that drive tangible impact.”

Earlier this month, LODD also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Etihad Cargo, in order to explore the introduction of next-generation hybrid VTOL aircraft into UAE operations.

“The UAE’s vision is built on harnessing innovation to propel everyday life forward,” said Rashid Mattar Al Manai, CEO of LODD Autonomous. “Our collaboration with Emirates SkyCargo blends LODD Autonomous’s frontier technologies with the country’s enduring commitment to safe, scalable, and sustainable logistics.”

He added: “Together, we will accelerate the adoption of drone-powered solutions that expand reach, cut delivery times, and strengthen the UAE’s position as a global logistics hub while upholding the highest standards of safety and regulatory excellence.”

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Silk Way West Airlines increases Airbus order to four A350Fs at DAS25

Ian Molyneaux — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 08:44:20 +0000

Azerbaijan’s Silk Way West Airlines has increased an existing order with Airbus to four A350F freighters at Dubai Airshow 2025.

On November 19, 2025, Silk Way West Airlines and Airbus announced a firm contract for an additional two A350F freighter aircraft had been signed.

Silk Way West Airlines ordered two Airbus A350Fs in 2022 with an option for two further aircraft. Delivery of the first A350Fs was planned over 2027-2028.

“We are delighted to extend our partnership with Airbus on the A350F programme,” said Wolfgang Meier, President of Silk Way West Airlines. “This order, bringing our total commitment to four aircraft, marks a major milestone in our company’s growth and reflects our confidence in the future of sustainable air freight. The A350F will strengthen our leading position in the global air freight market as we continue to modernise our fleet and reduce our carbon footprint.”

Founded in 2012, Silk Way West Airlines operates an active fleet of 12 aircraft including five Boeing 747-8Fs, four B747-400FSCD and three 777-200Fs, according to ch-aviation.

When the A350Fs are delivered, it will be the first time that Silk Way West Airlines has operated an Airbus fleet.

“This repeat order from Silk Way West Airlines, the largest cargo airline in the Caspian Sea region, is a great vote of confidence at a time when the A350F is physically taking shape in our assembly lines. The A350F will ensure the airline maintains its leading position in the global air freight market and further enables its key role in developing Azerbaijan as a major global cargo hub at the heart of the Silk Road,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.

On November 14, 2025, Air China Cargo, a subsidiary of Air China, signed a purchase agreement with Airbus for six A350F freighters.

Once certified, the A350F is poised to carry up to 111 tons and cover a range of 8,700 km powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines.

Latest estimates from Airbus indicate that the A350F will enter service in 2027. Initially, the company had hoped that the aircraft would be ready for customers as early as 2025.

According to Airbus, at the end of October 2025 it had 1,445 orders for the A350 family aircraft from 63 customers worldwide, including 74 for the A350F from 12 customers.

Among the companies that have placed A350F orders are lessor AviLease, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines and Starlux.

AeroTime is covering the Dubai Airshow 2025 live from the show floor, delivering breaking news and exclusive insights throughout the week. Drop by booth #294 to meet our team during the event.

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Airbus lands order from Air China Cargo for six A350F freighters

Ian Molyneaux — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 14:26:24 +0000

Air China Cargo, a subsidiary of Air China, has signed a purchase agreement with Airbus for six A350F freighters.

On November 14, 2025, Airbus confirmed that Air China Cargo had become first customer on the Chinese mainland to order the all-new A350F.

Headquartered in Beijing, Air China Cargo is China’s only freighter airline that carries the national flag.

“The introduction of the A350F to our existing mixed cargo fleet contributes to efficiency in operation and maintenance,” said Wang Hongyan, Vice President of Air China Cargo. “The A350F will enhance Air China Cargo’s capability to withstand risks in its long-term stable operation.”

Founded in 2003, Air China Cargo operates throughout China and serves 25 routes around the world, including Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Americas and the Middle East.

Anna Zvereva / Creative Commons

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, said: “We are delighted to welcome Air China Cargo as the latest customer for the A350F. The A350F will bring new generation efficiency and performance as well as new levels of capacity and unprecedented loading flexibility. We look forward to ensuring a seamless integration into Air China Cargo’s operation.”

According to ch-aviation, Air China Cargo currently operates a mix of Boeing and Airbus freighters, including six A330-200P2Fs, three 747-400FSCDs, and 13 777-200Fs.

Once certified, the A350F is poised to carry up to 111 tons and cover a range of 8,700 km powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines.

Latest estimates from Airbus indicate that the A350F will enter service in 2027. Initially, the company had hoped that the aircraft would be ready for customers as early as 2025.

According to Airbus, at the end of October 2025 it had 1,445 orders for the A350 family aircraft from 63 customers worldwide, including 74 for the A350F from 12 customers.

Among the companies that have placed A350F orders are lessor AviLease, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Turkish Airlines and Starlux.

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ZeroAvia awarded €21m EU grant to develop hydrogen aircraft network in Norway

Luke Peters — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 14:26:27 +0000

Hydrogen aircraft developer ZeroAvia has announced that its application to the Innovation Fund for a €21.4m grant to support the introduction of hydrogen-electric aircraft has been selected for grant agreement preparation. The project will support the retrofit of 15 Cessna Caravan aircraft with ZeroAvia’s ZA600 hydrogen-electric engines and the establishment of the supporting airport hydrogen fuel technologies, with operations planned to commence in 2028.

The Innovation Fund, financed by EU Emissions Trading System revenues, is one of the world’s largest funding programs for the demonstration of innovative low-carbon technologies. The Fund focuses on highly innovative clean technologies and big flagship projects with European added value that can bring significant emission and greenhouse gas reductions.

The Innovation Fund-selected project will support the introduction of zero-emission hydrogen aircraft for the first time in the European Economic Area (EEA). Project ODIN (Operations to Decarbonize Interconnectivity in Norway) also sees the European Commission recognise hydrogen-electric aviation as a strategic technology

More about ZeroAvia

The zero-emission aircraft being developed by ZeroAvia are planned to replace conventional kerosene-fueled turboprops on cargo routes and are expected to see in excess of 95% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. The project will also work to deliver hydrogen refuelling and storage infrastructure at 15 airports in Norway, establishing the world’s largest network of zero-emission commercial flights. The air operators for the network will be announced in due course.

ZeroAvia

The ODIN project aims to validate the technical performance and economic case for utilizing hydrogen-electric aircraft in commercial operations, with a view to catalyzing further adoption in Norway, across the EU, and further afield. According to a ZeroAvia statement, the project proposal was found to contribute to the objectives of the EU initiative “Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP)” and meet the requirements to receive the STEP Seal. The STEP Seal is a quality label awarded by the European Commission dedicated to boosting investment in critical technologies in Europe.

ZeroAvia’s ZA600 powertrain uses fuel cells to generate electricity from hydrogen fuel without reliance on combustion, meaning that the only emission is low-temperature water vapour.

ZeroAvia has already flight tested a prototype of this system, is now ground testing its final design for certification, and is concurrently working with both the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on certification programmes related to the engine.

ZeroAvia / RVL Aviation

What does ZeroAvia say?

“The EU Innovation Fund is notoriously competitive with applications needing to pass through rigorous assessment and demonstrate compelling evidence for near-term greenhouse gas reductions,” commented Val Miftakhov, Founder & CEO of ZeroAvia.

“This project will set a phenomenal example by introducing a scaled network of hydrogen-electric aircraft operations, efficiently delivering vital goods to people and businesses across Norway without the typical associated environmental damage.”

ZeroAvia is one of the world’s leading hydrogen aviation companies, driving the transition to a clean future of flight by developing electric propulsion technologies for aviation to unlock lower costs and emissions, cleaner air, reduced noise, energy independence, and increased connectivity.

Miquel Ros / AeroTime

The company is developing hydrogen-electric (fuel cell-powered) engines for existing commercial aircraft segments and also supplying hydrogen and electric propulsion component technologies for novel electric air transport applications (including battery, hybrid, and fuel cell-powered electric fixed-wing aircraft, eVTOLs, rotorcraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles(UAVs). 

ZeroAvia has submitted the plans for its first full engine for up to 20-seat planes for certification and is working on a larger powertrain for 40 to 80-seat aircraft, with significant flight tests and regulatory milestones achieved with the FAA and the CAA.  

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Magma Aviation joins TIACA to strengthen global air cargo collaboration

Avia Solutions Group — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 12:34:49 +0000

Magma Aviation, an industry-leading air cargo specialist, announced its membership with The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) during the Air Cargo Forum 2025 held in Abu Dhabi last November, 2025.

Magma Aviation’s growing influence and steady expansion over the past years achieves a new milestone by officially joining more than 500 industry leaders across all segments of the air freight supply chain, with the shared goal of developing a more efficient, modern, and unified global air cargo industry.

TIACA connects the global air cargo community and provides a platform for its members for collaboration, powerful networking and training opportunities for its members. On top of the member-level benefits, the association also helps create policies that promote safe, efficient, and sustainable air cargo operations worldwide.

“TIACA plays a leading role in the air cargo industry, and joining the association gives Magma Aviation the opportunity to be part of a global community of experts within the air cargo industry. Their forums, events, and industry insights align perfectly with our growth ambitions and it’s a great avenue for Magma Aviation to connect with industry-players that set the global standards within the air cargo industry,”– Peter Kerins, CEO of Magma Aviation

Joining TIACA supports Magma Aviation’s long-term growth ambition to be a trusted global air cargo partner, leveraging the association’s vast knowledge of modern industry standards, sustainability initiatives, and global networking opportunities.

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Cathay Cargo flies 250 Egyptian artefacts to HK for Palace Museum exhibition

Jean Carmela Lim — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 14:19:01 +0000

Cathay Cargo has completed the transport of 250 ancient Egyptian artifacts weighing more than 30 tons from Shanghai to Hong Kong, where they will be displayed at the Hong Kong Palace Museum starting November 20, 2025.

The shipment supports ‘Ancient Egypt Unveiled: Treasures from Egyptian Museums’, a nine-month exhibition jointly organized by the Hong Kong Palace Museum and Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities. It represents the largest and longest display of ancient Egyptian treasures ever shown in Hong Kong.

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For the first time, Hong Kong will exhibit museum artifacts and recent archaeological discoveries loaned directly from Egypt. The Supreme Council of Antiquities, which owns all the pieces, is making the artifacts available as part of its mission to preserve and promote Egyptian cultural heritage through international partnerships.

The exhibition opens as Egypt celebrates the November 1 launch of its Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, one of the world’s largest archaeological museums. The timing is significant: Egyptologists have been calling on museums worldwide to return Egyptian artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone currently held by the British Museum. The Netherlands recently announced it would return a stolen 3,500-year-old sculpture to Egypt.

Moving ancient artifacts across international borders requires specialized expertise. Cathay Cargo transported the collection using custom equipment including two 20-foot pallets, one oversized pallet, 12 lower-deck pallets, and shock-absorbing dollies designed to protect fragile items during flight.

An Egyptian courier accompanied the shipment, and experts in Shanghai supervised the loading process to ensure every piece traveled safely.

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Dominic Perrett, Cathay’s Director of Cargo, said the operation showcased the airline’s capabilities in handling sensitive shipments.

“This is a wonderful example of how Cathay Cargo helps connect cultures as well as commerce. We are honoured to support the transport of these remarkable treasures to Hong Kong. It underscores both our expertise in handling sensitive shipments through our Cathay Secure solution, and our commitment to facilitating Hong Kong’s position as a centre for international cultural exchange,” Perrett said.

The successful delivery required coordination between Shanghai Airport Authority, customs officials, ground handlers, and Cathay Cargo teams. Customs opened a dedicated green channel for the artifacts, and the operation included three days of advance document verification, expedited screening, and enhanced security procedures.

“This shipment demonstrates how our teams in the Chinese Mainland work seamlessly with airports, customs and partners to deliver delicate, high-value goods with precision and care,” Perrett added.

The Egyptian artifact transport builds on Cathay’s track record of supporting arts and cultural exchange. The airline has a three-year partnership with the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority to promote Hong Kong as a hub where Eastern and Western cultures meet.

Earlier in 2025, Cathay Cargo transported terracotta figures and more than 200 artifacts from Xi’an to Perth via Hong Kong for the ‘Terracotta Warriors: Legacy of the First Emperor’ exhibition, using its specialized Cathay Expert and Cathay Secure handling services.

‘Ancient Egypt Unveiled’ will run through August 2026, giving Hong Kong residents and visitors nearly a year to view artifacts that span thousands of years of Egyptian civilization. The exhibition represents one of the most significant cultural loans Egypt has made to the Asia-Pacific region.

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Korean Air converts seven Airbus A350-1000 orders to A350Fs

Ian Molyneaux — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 10:07:20 +0000

Korean Air has converted orders for seven Airbus A350-1000 aircraft placed in 2024 to the planemakers’ yet-to-be certified A350F next-generation freighter.

On October 31, 2025, Airbus confirmed that the composition of 33 A350s ordered by Korean Air in April 2024 had been changed.

Last year, the Korean flag carrier placed an order for 27 A350-1000s and six A350-900s in a move that the airline’s Chief Safety and Operating Officer, Jason Yoo, described as a “great fit” for its global network.

This order now comprises 20 A350-1000s, seven A350Fs, and six A350-900s, of which the first two have already been delivered. Asiana also had open orders for several A350s when the airlines merged.

“Korean Air is one of the world’s largest cargo operators,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business. “The decision to add the A350F to its fleet is therefore a very significant endorsement of the aircraft’s unique capabilities. The A350F will bring Korean Air the most efficient solution in the large freighter segment.”

Korean Air

Currently under development, the A350F can carry a payload of up to 111 tons and will fly up to 4,700 nautical miles / 8,700 kilometers.

In October 2025, Airbus reaffirmed that the A350F will enter service in 2027, after reports suggested this could slip back to 2028.

Airbus is pursuing type certification of the aircraft with both the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

At the end of September 2025, the A350 Family had won 1,445 orders from 63 customers worldwide, including 65 for the new A350F from 10 cargo carriers and one lessor.

Powered by the latest Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft should bring a reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions of up to 40% when compared to previous generation aircraft, with a similar payload-range capability.

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ANA and NCA announce codeshare for freighter routes linking Japan, Europe, US

Jean Carmela Lim — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 10:33:51 +0000

Japan’s All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Nippon Cargo Airlines( NCA) have announced that they are to launch a codeshare on cargo flights between Japan, Europe, and North America starting from October 26, 2025.

As part of the deal, ANA’s flight codes will be added to NCA’s Boeing 747 freighter services that fly from Narita International Airport (NRT) to major North American cities like Chicago, New York, Dallas/Fort Worth and Los Angeles, as well as European destinations such as Amsterdam, Milan and Frankfurt.

NCA will also share flight codes on ANA’s Boeing 777 freighter routes that connect Narita with Chicago and Los Angeles.

\\ANAとNCAは10月26日より、両社が運航している日本＝欧米線の貨物便についてコードシェアを開始します。//

プレスリリースはこちらhttps://t.co/U26pQ5oNlx

両社は今後も提携を深化し、あらゆるお客様の貨物輸送ニーズに対応できる高品質で競争力のあるサービスを提供してまいります。 pic.twitter.com/FI2XJIFSKj
— ANA Group News (@ANA_Group_News) October 24, 2025

The goal of the partnership is to grow the ANA Group’s cargo network, add more freight capacity, and make things easier for customers by combining the operational strengths of both carriers’ large freighter fleets, ANA said.

The codeshare announcement came after ANA Holdings purchased 100% of NCA’s shares on August 1, 2025. The combined operation now has a considerable freight capacity, made possible by ANA’s passenger flight network and its fleet of six Boeing 767 and two Boeing 777 freighters, as well as NCA’s eight Boeing 747 freighters.

According to ANA, this combined fleet gives the group the ability to move large amounts of cargo around the world.

Both carriers intend to strengthen their partnership in the future. The goal is to improve ANA Group’s cargo business and offer competitive, efficient services that meet changing customer needs, while also supporting the group’s long-term growth strategy.

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AEI unveils four-year plan for first Boeing 737-900ER freighter conversion

Ian Molyneaux — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 14:32:32 +0000

Aeronautical Engineers (AEI) has unveiled plans to launch the first Boeing 737-900 Extended Range Special Freighter (B737-900ERSF), following in the footsteps of the successful 737-800 freighter.

On October 22, 2025, AEI, a passenger-to-freighter (P2F) aircraft conversion specialist, confirmed that the B737-900ERSF program had begun with the goal of introducing the largest narrowbody freighter to its fleet.

Licensed by Boeing as a third-party provider, AEI is aiming to achieve Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Supplemental Type Certification (STC) in 2029.

This will be followed shortly after by approvals from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).

“This is a strategic move to address the increasing demand for higher capacity narrowbody freighters,” said Robert T. Convey, AEI Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “With the global e-commerce and express markets continuing to grow, the B737-900ERSF will provide operators with the right blend of payload, volume, and economics.”

AEI said that the new freighter will “offer unmatched volume and payload advantages over existing B737 freighter platforms”.

The Boeing 737-900 Extended Range Special Freighter features include:

Main Deck Payload: up to 57,700 lbs. (26,173 kg)
Total Cargo Volume: 7,273 cu. ft. (207 m³)
Up to 12 pallet positions (in 88″x125″ ULD configuration)
ANCRA cargo loading system
Seating for five supernumerary passengers (Standard)
Class E Main Deck compartment with rigid 9G barrier and smoke detection
Reinforced Floor Structure to support high-density freight and e-commerce packages
180-minute ETOPS option available
Auxiliary Fuel Tank retained for extended range

In 2021, AEI told Air Cargo Management that there could be a future in a Boeing 737-900ER freighter with a potential market of up to 200 aircraft.

According to ch-aviation, current operators of the Boeing 737-900ER include Alaska Airlines, Delta, Turkish Airlines and United Airlines.

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Private equity group buys majority stake in Spanish cargo airline Swiftair

Miquel Ros — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 13:22:58 +0000

Spanish air cargo operator Swiftair has been acquired by Antin Infrastructure Partners, a private equity group headquartered in Paris, France, for €280 million.

The transaction, through which the investment firm will acquire 70% of Swiftair, was announced on October 1, 2025.

Swiftair’s founder and CEO, Salvador Moreno, will remain a minority shareholder of the company and retain the top executive role after the acquisition is completed.

Founded in 2007, Antin Infrastructure Partners specializes in investing in cash-generating infrastructure and transportation businesses. It manages four separate investment funds which focus on energy & environment, digital technology, transportation and social infrastructure.

Madrid-based Swiftair is a major player in the European air cargo and parcel delivery scene. According to ch-aviation, as of October 2025, it has a fleet of 49 aircraft operating under its own brand, ranging from A321 P2F freighters to different versions of the Boeing 737 and 757 and ATR turboprops. It also has one A321 and four more B737s on order.

Additionally, Swiftair’s holding company, LUSAT, has controlling stakes in several other cargo businesses.

The most prominent of these is Sweden-based West Atlantic Group, which was acquired by LUSAT for €20 million in 2019. The Malmö-based group is the parent company of two cargo airlines, West Atlantic Sweden and West Atlantic UK, which together operated a fleet of around 15 freighters.

Since 2019, Swiftair’s parent company has also controlled Spanish cargo airline Cygnus Air (previously known as Gestair Cargo), which operates a fleet of five B757 freighters.

Following the announcement of the acquisition, Spain’s main pilot union, SEPLA (Sindicato Español de Pilotos de Líneas Aéreas), has issued a public statement welcoming the change of ownership and criticizing Switfair’s current management team for what they claim is a continued unwillingness to negotiate an update of the current labor relations framework at the airline.

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MightyFly teams up with US healthcare provider for eVTOL medical deliveries

Luke Peters — Fri, 03 Oct 2025 11:48:27 +0000

MightlyFly, a US-based startup specializing in autonomous hybrid eVTOL cargo aircraft, has announced a $50 million, five-year contract with a leading California-based healthcare diagnostics provider to deliver same-day, expedited logistics of medical diagnostic test kits. The service will initially be launched in California, before being expanded to Nevada and scaling nationwide thereafter.

According to the company, “this partnership marks one of the largest commercial agreements to date to bring autonomous cargo eVTOL aircraft into healthcare logistics at scale.

MightyFly is a provider of expedited logistics services and a leading manufacturer and operator of autonomous, fixed-wing, hybrid eVTOL cargo aircraft with payload capacities of 100 pounds, a range of 1,000 miles, and a speed of 150 mph.

Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, MightyFly was founded in 2019 with backing from several major investment organizations. The company was named a “Top Supply Chain Startup to Watch” in 2022 by Business Insider. According to the company’s website, “MightyFly’s mission is to provide fast, affordable, and low-emissions expedited deliveries to businesses and governments.

MightyFly’s autonomous eVTOL service will provide same-day deliveries, with in-transit cold storage as an optional feature, directly from pharmacies, clinics, and retail stores to the healthcare provider’s labs.

This will reduce dependence on costly commercial airline shipments and inefficient ground transportation, according to the company. In addition to offering speed and reliability, MightyFly’s aircraft offer a sustainable alternative, cutting emissions by up to 64% compared to road-based vans and 92% compared to small aircraft, the company added.

This landmark agreement potentially signals a pivotal shift for the logistics industry. Unlike unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that typically deliver a single item between two points, MightyFly’s aircraft can autonomously transport hundreds of test kits to and from multiple destinations on a single route.

The result, says the company, is three times faster deliveries enabled with eVTOL door-to-door shipments, faster turnaround times for diagnostic results, and 70% lower operating costs than legacy logistics services. By doing so, MightyFly aims to ultimately expand access to care for the provider’s customers and their end-users, including major retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, CVS, and Kroger, as well as clinics and educational institutions.

MightyFly

“Our mission is to provide efficient access to goods. In healthcare, that means enabling the most expeditious, accessible, and affordable care,” said Manal Habib, CEO of MightyFly. “With our Cento aircraft, we will deliver resilient, cost-efficient, and reliable expedited logistics at scale. With its 1,000-mile range and cargo capacities in the hundreds of items, our aircraft will transform expedited logistics and healthcare access. With its eVTOL, healthcare is no longer constrained by roads and runways; lifesaving supplies, and critical goods can now fly everywhere, directly and efficiently.”

By MightyFly’s calculations, the US pharmaceutical logistics market exceeds $100 billion annually, while healthcare logistics approaches $90 billion. Both are projected to more than double in the coming decade as diagnostics, personalized medicine, and resilient supply chains become critical to healthcare delivery.

The latest announcement comes as MightyFly has marked a series of milestones so far in 2025. So far, over 400 flights have been demonstrated, including automated cargo loading and unloading. The company has also carried out testing with the US Air Force to advance autonomous aerial logistics technology.

It says it has over $210 million in signed commercial Letters of Intent (LOIs), which “validates broad market demand,” and finally, in April 2025, the company received FAA authorization to test in five California airspaces, up to 5,000 ft, including seven airports and multiple flight corridors.

“With this latest contract and the momentum of our recent achievements, MightyFly is leading the next stage of autonomous aerial logistics, moving beyond small drones to transporting large volumes of goods at scale,” Habib added. “This is just the beginning, and healthcare is the first step. Our hybrid eVTOL platform will redefine expedited logistics across retail, defense, manufacturing, and commercial supply chains worldwide.”

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FedEx pilots issue vote of no confidence in CEO Rajesh Subramaniam

Stephen Pope — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 01:00:00 +0000

FedEx pilots have delivered a rebuke of company leadership, issuing a formal vote of no confidence in Chief Executive Officer Rajesh Subramaniam. The move, announced on September 29, 2025, by the FedEx Master Executive Council (MEC) of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), comes just weeks before the shipping giant’s annual meeting of stockholders.

The MEC represents more than 5,000 FedEx pilots. In its statement, the union said the declaration reflected a broad sentiment within the pilot ranks that Subramaniam has failed to uphold the “people-first” culture that founder Fred Smith established when he built FedEx around the philosophy of “People-Service-Profit.” Instead, the pilots argue, the company has embraced a narrow focus on profit and corporate restructuring programs that they say erode trust and weaken the foundation of the business.

“When Mr. Subramaniam assumed the role of CEO in June 2022, he inherited an enterprise built on an inspirational philosophy championed by founder Fred Smith,” the MEC wrote in its formal no confidence letter. “In contrast, Mr. Subramaniam has prioritized corporate restructuring initiatives—One FedEx, DRIVE, Network 2.0 and Tricolor—over people and purpose.”

According to the pilots, those initiatives emphasize how the company functions but neglect the reasons for FedEx’s success, what they point to as “employee dedication to the company’s mission of reliable, on-time delivery.” The union said that during Subramaniam’s three-year tenure, this shift has “eroded employee trust, weakened loyalty, and continues to jeopardize operational reliability in what is now a highly competitive marketplace.”

Votes of no confidence are symbolic rather than binding, but they send a clear signal of dissatisfaction. In this case, the timing is notable. FedEx shareholders will meet soon to evaluate corporate performance and elect directors, and the pilots’ declaration underscores growing labor tension inside one of the world’s largest package delivery companies.

The MEC said the action was not taken lightly but was necessary to draw attention to what it described as a “crisis in leadership.” The statement calls on FedEx’s board of directors to restore accountability, transparency, and trust by realigning the company’s vision with its original people-focused philosophy.

“The frontline employees who represent the face of FedEx deserve better. The customers who depend on FedEx’s reliability deserve better. Shareholders who value FedEx’s financial stability deserve better,” the union wrote.

The declaration comes at a time when FedEx faces stiff competition from rivals UPS, Amazon’s growing logistics network, and regional carriers. The company has been implementing wide-ranging restructuring programs designed to streamline operations and cut costs. Subramaniam has championed initiatives like One FedEx, which integrates the company’s separate operating units, and DRIVE, a cost-reduction program targeting billions in annual savings.

While investors have generally supported efforts to improve margins, the pilots argue that the push for efficiency has come at the expense of FedEx’s culture and long-term stability. The no-confidence vote reflects broader concerns about whether the company’s strategic shift has left employees alienated and whether operational reliability could suffer as a result.

Labor relations also loom large in the background. FedEx pilots, like their counterparts at UPS, are represented by ALPA and negotiate contracts that cover pay, scheduling, and working conditions. At UPS, pilots secured an extended contract agreement in 2023 after contentious talks. FedEx pilots remain without a new contract, and negotiations have been closely watched by analysts who see labor costs as a critical factor for the company’s financial performance.

FedEx has not publicly responded to the pilots’ declaration. For now, the union’s move underscores a sharp divide between management and frontline employees. The outcome will depend on whether FedEx’s leadership and board choose to recalibrate their approach or continue with a strategy that, according to the pilots, threatens to damage out the company’s identity.

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Chapman Freeborn flies 300 tons of solar panels from China to Turkey

Avia Solutions Group — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 07:48:13 +0000

Global air charter specialist Chapman Freeborn, part of Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider, successfully managed three charter flights transporting close to 300 tons of solar panels. The full-capacity flights, which used Boeing 777F aircraft belonging to Qatar Airways and Silk Way West Airways, were all made within one week to enable importers to secure stock in Turkey before a change to taxes on solar panels.

The three charter flights were made between Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) and Istanbul Airport (IST). In total, 447 pallets were transported, weighing over 292 tons and amounting to 685 cubic meters. Chapman Freeborn leveraged its expertise in high-volume cargo planning and coordinated closely with the client and airlines to ensure the timely execution of these deliveries to meet a critical market deadline.

Handling such a high volume required detailed coordination and careful planning, explains Emre Sanisoglu, Cargo Charters Consultant at Chapman Freeborn.

“The pallets had varied sizes and weights, so we worked closely with the airlines on pallet build-up and planning to optimize the use of aircraft space. The high volumes tested the 777Fs’ capacity limits of 100 tons and 550 cubic meters. We achieved full aircraft utilization on all three flights, two with Qatar Airways and one with Silk Way West Airlines. This ensured cost effectiveness, and we also maintained transparent cost communication with the client throughout the process to avoid any unpleasant surprises,” Emre Sanisoglu says.

Alongside the complexity and fine margins in terms of volume and weight, this project also featured very tight turnarounds. “Our team was able to coordinate three charters within one week, with flights taking place on the 3rd, 8th and 10th of September. We also provided the client with real-time updates on departures and arrivals, so they were fully informed during this critical week for their business,” explains Emre.

“This operation demonstrated Chapman Freeborn’s capacity to work in close coordination with stakeholders and draw upon our extensive global network and decades of experience to ensure the timely execution of three complex cargo deliveries,” says Gerhard Coetzee Vice President Cargo – IMEA.

Chapman Freeborn has over 50 years of experience providing air cargo charter services for major corporations, governments, NGOs, relief agencies, and high net-worth individuals. The company is part of Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider, operating a fleet of 209 aircraft worldwide and the parent company of over 250 subsidiaries. The group offers a wide range of aviation solutions, including MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul), pilot and crew training, ground handling, and other related aviation services. Supported by 14,000 highly skilled aviation professionals, the group operates across 6 continents.

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Kalitta Air receives first 2 Boeing 777-300ERSF converted freighters from AerCap

Goda Labanauskaite — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 13:19:54 +0000

Lessor AerCap has announced that it handed over the first two Boeing 777-300ERSF Passenger-to-Freighter (“P2F”) converted aircraft to US cargo airline Kalitta Air, including the prototype certification aircraft.

These aircraft, part of a larger seven-aircraft order, reached Kalitta’s facility in Oscoda, Michigan on September 12 and 13, 2025, the lessor announced in a statement on September 15, 2025.

Kalitta Air became the launch operator of the AerCap Cargo 777-300ERSF conversion program in 2020, as part of a strategy to replace their ageing Boeing 747 freighter fleet.

Since then, the program has gone through thorough certification and testing with the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel (CAAI) and the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to allow the aircraft to operate with a 100-ton payload capacity.

“With certification now received from both the CAAI and FAA, we are pleased to begin delivering the aircraft to our customers – a significant milestone for the program,” said Aengus Kelly, CEO of AerCap.

The Boeing 777-300ER is recognized as “the most successful widebody passenger variant in aviation history”, with over 800 units delivered, AerCap said.

According to the lessor, the 777-300ERSF is set to “redefine the future of air freight” with a payload capacity of 100 metric tons (220,000 pounds) in a volume of 811 cubic meters (28,640 cubic feet) and can significantly reduce operating costs compared to current widebody freighters.

Additionally, AeroCap said that as it enters service and replaces the aging 747F, the 777-300ERSF will contribute to the decarbonization of air cargo by cutting CO2 emissions by 20%.

“This aircraft will give us greater range and payload capability to meet growing demand in the global cargo market,” said Connie Kalitta, CEO of Kalitta Air.

Kalitta Air plans to start using both aircraft for revenue operations in early October 2025, with additional deliveries expected in the coming weeks.

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IAI completes first Boeing 777 passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion

Miquel Ros — Mon, 01 Sep 2025 12:49:27 +0000

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) announced on September 1, 2025, that it had completed the first ever passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion of a Boeing 777 aircraft.

The result is one of the largest freighter aircraft in operation, capable of carrying a payload of 100 tons. After the conversion process, this aircraft will receive the designation B777-300ERSF, in reference to the B777 version it is based on.

The aircraft has also obtained the first Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for this type of aircraft from both the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel (CAAI).

AerCap is the launch customer and partner of the B777 P2F program. The leasing giant will lease the first converted aircraft to US-based air cargo operator Kalitta Air.

IAI

In a statement announcing the successful completion of the project, Yaacov Berkovitz, Executive VP and General Manager of IAI’s Aviation Group, said: “This milestone sets a new standard in air cargo, delivering a unique combination of high payload capacity, volume and operational efficiency. The Boeing 777 was developed to meet the evolving needs of the cargo industry, and we believe it will become the preferred choice for international operators.”

The B777 P2F is seen as a potential replacement for the aging B747 fleets currently in service with air cargo operators.

While IAI is the first to complete and certify a P2F conversion of a Boeing 777, other companies are expected to follow suit.

In July 2025, for example, US-based Mammoth Freighters announced it was nearing the final stages of its own B777-300ER P2F program, which is being conducted in partnership with AviaAM Leasing, part of the Avia Solutions Group.

Also in the US, Kansas Modification Center (KMC) is pursuing certification for its own B777 P2F project. The Wichita-based firm is considering the set-up of facilities capable of conducting the P2F process for B777 aircraft in both Morocco and Thailand, with local partners.

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Chapman Freeborn delivers oversized industrial cargo from Belgium to China

Avia Solutions Group — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 11:01:31 +0000

Global air charter specialist Chapman Freeborn has successfully handled the delivery of oversized industrial equipment from Belgium to China. The equipment, welded tubes for industrial heat exchangers, was 20 meters long and weighed 700 kg. It was nose-loaded into a Boeing 747-400F at Liege Airport (LGG), Belgium and flown by cargo part-charter to Zhengzhou (CGO), China.

The client chose air cargo rather than ocean freight for transporting this delicate, oversized equipment because of a tight timeframe for delivery. Yoann Maugran, Sales Manager France at Chapman Freeborn Airchartering BV, comments:

“When a customer entrusts us with an oversized shipment, we understand that there is no room for error and that every detail counts. This is where Chapman Freeborn’s expertise comes into play. Oversized freight is often the most challenging part of our business, but also the most rewarding when a mission is successfully completed.”

Chapman Freeborn overcame multiple technical challenges in order to successfully execute this delivery on time and in a cost-effective manner. The welded tubes were shipped in a 20m-long crate, which ruled out side-door loading as an option. Instead, the cargo was nose-loaded onto a B747-400F, with this aircraft selected as the optimal nose door option for cost-effective delivery.

Handling this oversized cargo during the loading and unloading was far from straightforward. The Chapman Freeborn team had to ensure no bending or damage occurred to the delicate welded tubes during the loading process. Operations began in July with the truck offload and build up, before the hour-long aircraft loading was carried out 2 days later.

A complex combination of cranes and loaders was used, which required careful coordination. For the truck offload and build-up, two cranes were employed. Then 3 high loaders, operated by 6 ground staff, were used for the airside loading. Throughout this process, Chapman Freeborn worked closely with Challenge Group, who were brought in to provide experienced ground handling services at Liege Airport (LGG).

Flexibility and adaptability are always required when handling complex oversized freight. In the case of this delivery, an added complication was the last-minute change of final destination from Shanghai (PVG) to Zhengzhou (CGO). Despite this shift, Chapman Freeborn was able to provide the client with all necessary services, assisting with export customs clearance and maintaining direct flight representation. This ensured smooth operations and real-time updates for the client.

“This project has highlighted Chapman Freeborn’s expertise in oversized air cargo handling, its ability to smoothly coordinate multi-faceted operations, and its adaptability in the face of last-minute changes,” concludes Yoann Maugran.

Chapman Freeborn boasts over 50 years’ experience in air cargo charter services. It offers extensive global coverage to its wide-ranging clientele, including major corporations, governments, NGOs, relief agencies, and high net-worth individuals. The company is part of Avia Solutions Group, the world’s largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider, operating a fleet of 209 aircraft worldwide and the parent company of over 250 subsidiaries. The group offers a wide range of aviation solutions, including MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul), pilot and crew training, ground handling, and other related aviation services. Supported by 14,000 highly skilled aviation professionals, the group operates across 6 continents.

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Saudia Cargo set to lease two Airbus A330P2F freighters from ASL Airlines

Luke Peters — Tue, 19 Aug 2025 10:30:48 +0000

Saudia Cargo has announced it has entered into a wet lease agreement with ASL Aviation Holdings to add two Airbus A330-300P2F converted freighters to its fleet of dedicated cargo aircraft. The agreement will see the first of the two aircraft, which will be operated by ASL Airlines of Ireland, supplied to the Saudi-based carrier in the last quarter of 2025.

This aircraft is reported to be MSN 1272, which was originally delivered to China Airlines in December 2011 as a passenger variant. Now registered as EI-LKD, the aircraft has undergone P2F conversion during the first half of 2025. The aircraft subsequently flew into Shannon, Ireland, in mid-June 2025, where it was repainted into the full current Saudia Cargo livery. The second aircraft to be supplied under the deal is expected to arrive following P2F conversion by the end of 2025.

Comprehensive operational support, including committed crews, a maintenance program, and insurance, is included in this ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) lease arrangement, according to a Saudia Cargo statement. With capacity for 26 pallets on the main deck and an additional 11 pallets (32 LD3) in the lower hold, the aircraft can transport up to 62 tonnes (115,808 pounds) of revenue payload and travel up to 3,700 nautical miles (6,850 km) carrying both express parcels and larger cargo.

Saudia Cargo

“Expanding our capacity and global reach is a strategic imperative for Saudia Cargo, ensuring uninterrupted supply chains for our customers,” said Loay Mashabi, CEO and Managing Director of Saudia Cargo. “The integration of this A330-300P2F, in partnership with ASL Aviation Holdings, will significantly support our network capabilities, enabling us to connect markets with greater agility and efficiency. This pivotal addition directly supports our vision to solidify our position as a leading global air cargo carrier and solidifies the Kingdom’s role as a global logistics hub.”

Dave Andrew, CEO of ASL Aviation Holdings, added, “We are delighted to partner with Saudia Cargo to welcome an A330-300P2F to the ASL fleet. This partnership is a positive statement for ASL as we continue to strengthen and grow. The new A330-300P2F aircraft is ideal for Saudia Cargo’s express shipping and e-commerce services, providing a flexible solution to meet the diverse shipping needs of its customers and deliver reliable, high-quality cargo services.”

Saudia Cargo

The return of the A330-300P2F to ASL Airlines Ireland’s fleet will complement the lessor’s Boeing 737 and ATR72 freighters, of which the carrier employs 20 and 11 aircraft, respectively. The company also has seven A300Fs flying under contract to European Air Transport and operated on behalf of DHL Express.

With the addition of the two A330P2F freighters, the Saudia Cargo fleet will reach eight aircraft with four Boeing 747-400Fs and four 777-200Fs already on strength.

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Riyadh Air signs partnership with SATS to launch cargo handling services

Ian Molyneaux — Mon, 18 Aug 2025 13:07:35 +0000

New Middle Eastern airline Riyadh Air has signed a five-year partnership with SATS to provide cargo handling services at key airports across Saudi Arabia.

SATS Saudi Arabia will enable Riyadh Air to develop cargo operations at King Khalid International Airport (RUH) with further support at King Fahd International Airport (DMM) in Dammam and King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah.

As part of the agreement announced on August 18, 2025, SATS Saudi Arabia will also develop world-class hub management capabilities for Riyadh Air.

“This partnership with SATS Saudi Arabia marks a pivotal milestone in Riyadh Air’s journey to become a leading global carrier. By leveraging SATS’ advanced cargo handling capabilities and global network, we are laying a strong foundation to build a world-class air cargo offering from day one,” said Adam Boukadida, CFO at Riyadh Air.

He added: “This collaboration enables us to deliver operational excellence, high-value logistics solutions, and strategic connectivity across key global trade lanes.”

Riyadh Air

SATS Saudi Arabia will provide comprehensive dedicated cargo handling services at its existing 60,000 square-metre airfreight terminal at RUH.

This partnership grants Riyadh Air instant access to SATS’ extensive global network of over 225 stations, supported by over 250 airline partners and leading freight forwarders.

The collaboration will enable Riyadh Air to launch a suite of cargo products and services that position the airline for strong competitive advantage in regional and global markets.

“We are honoured that Riyadh Air has selected SATS as a trusted partner for its ambitious cargo growth journey. This partnership represents strategic alignment between Riyadh Air’s ambition to connect over 100 destinations globally by 2030 and our commitment to provide our customers with world-class air cargo solutions,” said Bob Chi, CEO Gateway Services Asia Pacific, SATS.

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UPS B747-8F freighter suffers engine pod strike while landing at Taipei Airport

Jean Carmela Lim — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 09:17:05 +0000

A United Parcel Service (UPS) Boeing B747-8F freighter has experienced an engine pod strike while attempting to land at Taipei’s Taoyuan International Airport (TPE).

The incident occurred on August 13, 2025. The freighter, with registration N613UP, was operating as flight 5X-61 from Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), and was on its third landing attempt at TPE Airport’s runway 05L.

Tropical typhoon Podul was blowing through Taiwan at the time of the incident, with wind speeds of up to 191 kph being reported.

Clear video of UPS 747-8F’s engine pod strike at Taoyuan
UPS Flight 5X61 from Hong Kong scraped its right engine on landing, sending sparks and flames flying down the runway. pic.twitter.com/9TgpflxhqD
— Turbine Traveller (@Turbinetraveler) August 14, 2025

Video footage of the incident captured the moment the aircraft’s right wing lowered as it touched down, causing engine #4 nacelle to strike the runway ground, emitting sparks as the aircraft eventually found its balance.

The aircraft managed to complete its landing without further incident, or any reported injuries.

On August 13, 2025, a #UPS Boeing 747-8F freighter (N613UP) experienced an engine pod strike while landing at #Taipei's Taoyuan Int'l Airport (TPE), #Taiwan.

©jal_kana/Instagramhttps://t.co/cE2kHHcMFT #5X61 #Boeing #B747 #Podul #typhoonpodul #typhoon #aviation #avgeek pic.twitter.com/P8UT6OopdI
— FlightMode (@FlightModeblog) August 14, 2025

Photos of engine #4’s sustained damage were captured after the aircraft landed. Investigations on the incident are now underway.

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DHL Express and Cathay Group sign deal to accelerate SAF usage across Asia

Luke Peters — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 03:00:00 +0000

DHL Express and the Cathay Group have announced that the parties have entered into a new sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) partnership that will “reinforce their shared commitment to reducing carbon emissions in the air cargo industry.” Under the agreement, Cathay will supply DHL Express with 2,400 tonnes of SAF for international flights departing from three airports in Asia (Seoul-Incheon International Airport (ICN), Tokyo-Narita International Airport (NRT), and Singapore-Changi Airport SIN)).

The specific flights to be supplied are operated by Air Hong Kong, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Cathay Group, which principally operates express cargo services for DHL Express using a fleet of 14 A330F freighter aircraft. Continuing through 2025, the partnership is expected to reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 7,190 tonnes, say the parties, “equivalent to the emissions of over 100 flights from Hong Kong to Singapore with an Airbus A330 freighter.”

“This SAF deal builds on the long-standing partnership between DHL Express and the Cathay Group, including through Air Hong Kong,” added a Cathay Group statement. “For more than two decades, Air Hong Kong has played a vital role in DHL Express’s Asia Pacific network. This latest collaboration builds on that strong foundation and paves the way for deeper cooperation in advancing SAF.”

Cathay Group

“Sustainable aviation fuel currently accounts for less than 1% of the total global jet fuel consumption, yet air transport is one of our biggest sources of greenhouse gas emissions,” commented DHL Express Senior Vice President for Network Operations & Aviation (Asia Pacific), Peter Bardens. “Our decision to expand our SAF usage in Asia with Cathay is another important step that we have taken to drive momentum in SAF production and demand.”

“DHL Express is at the forefront of SAF adoption, and we look forward to seeing more partners and customers join us on this journey to build a more robust SAF ecosystem in Asia. Our continued investment in this area aligns with DHL Group’s Strategy 2030, which recognises ‘green logistics of choice’ as one of the four bottom lines,” he added.

Cathay Director Cargo Tom Owen added, “This partnership marks the first SAF uplift on Air Hong Kong flights, a key milestone for Cathay as we continue to expand the SAF usage across our global network. SAF remains a core pillar of our strategy to address our carbon emissions, and collaboration is essential to scaling its use. We are excited to be working with like-minded partners like DHL Express to make SAF more accessible and scalable, particularly in Asia.”

Cathay Group

This collaboration makes DHL Express the latest strategic partner of Cathay’s Corporate SAF Programme, an initiative launched in 2022 to support corporate partners in addressing greenhouse gas emissions from business travel and airfreight through the use of SAF. In 2024, the Corporate SAF Programme enabled the use of over 6,000 tonnes of SAF, with a record 16 partners participating, which included HSBC, AIA, and Standard Chartered.

Increasing involvement with SAF

Cathay has been steadily expanding its SAF efforts across the region. Earlier in 2025, the Group entered into an agreement with Sinopec to uplift SAF produced in the Chinese Mainland at Hong Kong International Airport, marking the first such export by Sinopec to Hong Kong. Additionally, Cathay has partnered with SK Energy to secure SAF supply in South Korea from 2025 to 2027. Apart from working closely with suppliers, the Group also co-initiated the Hong Kong Sustainable Aviation Fuel Coalition (HKSAFC) to collectively drive policy development and adoption of SAF locally. These initiatives reflect Cathay’s mission to expand the use of SAF within its network and foster a regional SAF ecosystem.

“Investments in SAF are therefore critical to ensuring its availability on a long-term and predictable basis,“ adds the Cathay Group statement. “DHL Express has also been a frontrunner in scaling SAF uptake globally, securing long-term SAF agreements with multiple partners, including Neste, bp, and World Energy. Earlier this year, DHL Express also partnered with Cosmo Oil Marketing to use SAF produced in Japan for flights departing the country. Most recently, DHL Express completed an agreement with Neste that comprises 7,400 tonnes of SAF for international flights departing from Singapore Changi Airport, further demonstrating the company’s proactive approach to driving SAF demand and supply across the region.“

Cathay Group

“These efforts will also enhance DHL’s understanding of how to transport these alternative fuels, as it is a segment under its Strategy 2030’s key growth sector, “New Energy.” DHL Group is developing end-to-end logistics solutions for eight segments: wind, solar, electric vehicle (EV) and batteries, battery and energy storage systems, EV charging, grid, alternative fuel, and hydrogen,” the statement concludes.

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Air France-KLM follows ALC in cutting Airbus A350F order commitments

Luke Peters — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 10:53:49 +0000

The Air France-KLM Group has confirmed it will be downgrading its commitments for the yet-to-fly Airbus A350 freighter (A350F). The group has eight outstanding orders for the long-haul wide-bodied cargo plane, although this will be reduced to just six firm orders. The Group’s main cargo subsidiaries, Air France Cargo and Martinair, were both due to receive four aircraft apiece, although this will now be reduced to just three per airline.

Both carriers originally ordered four aircraft each, with Air France placing its order in 2022 and KLM in early 2023. However, earlier in 2025, the Group announced its intention to review these orders in light of ongoing production delays of Airbus’ latest product and uncertainty in the global cargo and logistics markets. A fleet review has since shown that the Group would be better suited with six of the type for the time being.

Air France-KLM said the decision was intended to balance future capital expenditure with operational efficiency, noting Airbus’s recent confirmation that the A350F’s entry into service would be delayed until at least 2027 – at least a year later than previously confirmed, and indeed, being planned for by airline customers of the new variant. The ultra-modern jets were slated to replace Air France Cargo’s two Boeing 777-200ER freighters that it currently operates, while four Martinair’s Boeing 747-400Fs would have been removed from its fleet in favour of the new planes.

Peter Bakema / Wikimedia Commons

It is understood that the airline group is closely monitoring the state of the global cargo market as it determines its future freighter needs. While the airlines can always rely on the belly hold capacity of the passenger fleets to fulfil demand for cargo space, they may also retain the option to extend the leases on their existing freighters so that the equilibrium between supply and demand remains closely aligned.

The announcement comes just days after another major A350F customer, Air Lease Corporation (ALC), cancelled all seven of its orders for the type. In a statement issued concerning the matter, the global leasing giant cited similar delivery delay concerns in addition to growing uncertainty in the global logistics industry and the unpredictability over the reliance of large wide-bodied freighter aircraft in the future. This situation is being exacerbated by the instability of markets, with the ongoing tariff issue still very much in play.

Airbus A350F orderbook

At least ten customers have ordered the A350F to date, according to ch-aviation. Since Airbus first announced the A350F program in 2021, the planemaker had received orders for almost 90 airframes before these latest cancellations.

Airbus

Saudi-backed leasing firm AviLease ordered 22 A350Fs at the Paris Airshow in July 2025, making it the largest customer to date for the type. Before that deal was announced, Etihad and Starlux were the largest customers of the type, each ordering ten aircraft. Future operators also include CMA-CGM Air Cargo (the launch customer), Air France-KLM Group, Cathay Pacific, MNG Airlines, Silk Way West Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and ALC, although following the recent developments, the latter can now be removed from that list. There are also three A350Fs for an as-yet undisclosed customer.

Other A350 fleet changes

The cancellation of the A350F orders comes a week after the Air France-KLM Group announced it was revising its widebody passenger aircraft order strategy, converting most of its outstanding Airbus A350-1000 orders to the shorter Airbus A350-900 variant. The changes will potentially impact the Group’s longer-term fleet renewal plans and growth strategies from Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Amsterdam-Schiphol Airport (AMS).

Leaderofthewave / Shutterstock

The adjustment follows the Group’s 2023 order for 50 A350s, initially split between A350-900 and A350-1000 variants. The new incoming aircraft are intended to replace aging Airbus A330 and Boeing 777 models in the respective carriers’ fleets. Airbus figures published in July 2025 showed that Air France-KLM has converted 8 of its 11 A350-1000 orders in favour of the smaller A350-900 variant. This is a trend that is being replicated across the outstanding order book for the A350 family, confirmed the European manufacturer.

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Air Incheon flies under new name after completing Asiana cargo takeover

Ian Molyneaux — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 10:54:59 +0000

Air Incheon has rebranded its business as AirZeta at a ceremony in South Korea after completing its takeover of Asiana Airlines’ cargo division.

The takeover was required to placate global competition regulators when Korean Air and Asiana Airlines were seeking approval for their merger.

According to The Korea Herald, Asiana Airlines confirmed in a regulatory filing on August 1, 2025, that the $338 million takeover had been finalized.

With its newly acquired aircraft, Air Incheon announced its new name as AirZeta at a ceremony on the same day at Incheon International Airport (ICN).

AirZeta CEO Kim Kwan-sik explained that the new name for the all-cargo carrier represented a journey from A to Z.

“We plan to make a greater leap toward innovation through this strategic integration. Our goal is to become a leading air logistics platform by delivering faster, safer and more competitive services that offer optimized cargo solutions to our customers,” said Kwan-sik.

AirZeta’s first trans-Pacific cargo flight under the new brand departed from Incheon Airport on August 1, 2025.

According to ch-aviation, AirZeta’s fleet of four B737-800(SF) and one B747-400(BDSF) aircraft has now increased to 15, with the transfer of ownership of 11 cargo planes from Asiana.

Air Incheon was singled out in June 2024 as the preferred buyer of Asiana’s cargo segment as part of its merger with Korean Air.

Air Incheon was leading the field based on several key criteria which included the “certainty of completing the transaction, the ability to maintain and enhance long-term competitiveness of the air cargo business, and the capability to mobilize funds through a competent consortium”.

Other Korean carriers in the running included Jeju Air, Eastar Jet and Air Premia. Switzerland-based financial services firm UBS was tasked with selling Asiana’s cargo division.

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All Nippon Airways (ANA) finalizes acquisition of Nippon Cargo Airlines

Jean Carmela Lim — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 10:37:01 +0000

Japan’s All Nippon Airways (ANA) is now the country’s largest combination passenger and cargo carrier after finalizing its acquisition of Nippon Cargo Airlines (NCA).

ANA said that the approval was obtained with relevant authorities and through a simplified share exchange with Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha, a publicly listed company in Japan and one of the world’s leading transportation companies. The acquisition was finalized on August 1, 2025.

The acquisition will integrate Nippon Cargo Airlines’ Japan-Europe and US routes with ANA Group’s international network, which will result in an expanded global cargo network.

2025年8月1日付で、ANAグループの一員として新たな一歩を踏み出しました@ANA_travel_info
グループの強みを最大限に活かしながら、ネットワークの高度化、輸送品質の向上、安全運航のさらなる徹底に取り組んでいきます
今後とも変わらぬご支援を賜りますよう、よろしくお願い申し上げます。 pic.twitter.com/98rItlm2ZE
— 日本貨物航空【NCA】 (@nipponcargo) August 4, 2025

ANA operates six Boeing 767 freighters and two Boeing 777 freighters, while NCA operates eight Boeing 747-8 freighters. ANA said that the combined cargo fleet will take ANA Group to the world’s 14th largest airline group based on cargo transport weight.

NCA’s expertise is in special commodities and mass transportation using large freighters. ANA said that along with its international network, the company will be able to improve its competitive services to meet customers’ cargo transport needs.

“The strategic integration of NCA’s freighter network and specialized cargo expertise with the ANA Group’s existing infrastructure will greatly improve our capability to serve our customers’ needs,” said Koji Shibata, President and CEO of ANA HD.

“We are committed to leveraging this expanded capacity and combined knowledge to deliver exceptional value in our cargo transport solutions globally,” Shibata added.

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Air cargo growth stalls in June 2025 amid US trade tensions, IATA says

Clement Charpentreau — Sun, 03 Aug 2025 13:56:21 +0000

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has reported a near standstill in global air cargo growth for June 2025, as renewed trade uncertainty, driven by a new wave of tariffs introduced by the United States under President Donald Trump, weighed heavily on demand.

Total demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTKs), rose by just 0.8% compared to June 2024. International operations recorded a slightly stronger 1.6% year-on-year increase. Available cargo capacity (ACTKs) was up 1.7%, and 2.8% for international services.

“Overall, air cargo demand grew by a modest 0.8% year-on-year in June, but there are very differing stories behind that number for the industry’s major players,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.

Trade tensions hit North America

The sharpest decline was observed in North America, where carriers saw an 8.3% drop in cargo traffic. The fall reflects mounting uncertainty surrounding tariffs and retaliatory measures between the US and key trading partners.

European carriers posted flat growth of 0.8%, also affected by global trade frictions. In contrast, Asia-Pacific airlines recorded a robust 9.0% expansion, benefiting from relatively stable regional demand.

In the Middle East, cargo volumes fell by 3.2%, as conflict-related disruptions continued to affect operations.

“The June air cargo data made it very clear that stability and predictability are essential supports for trade,” Walsh said. “Emerging clarity on US tariffs allows businesses greater confidence in planning. But we cannot overlook the fact that the ‘deals’ being struck are resulting in significantly higher tariffs on goods imported into the US than we had just a few months ago. The economic damage of these cost barriers to trade remains to be seen.”

Recovery in fuel prices and output

Despite weak demand growth, several underlying indicators point to resilience in the broader economic backdrop. Global industrial production rose by 3.2% in May, and the trade in goods increased by 3.5% year-on-year.

Jet fuel prices in June were 12% lower than a year earlier, marking a fourth consecutive month of annual decline. However, prices were up 8.6% compared to May, indicating some volatility.

Manufacturing also showed signs of recovery. The global Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rose to 51.2, returning above the growth threshold. However, the export order component, though improving by 1.2 points, remained in contraction territory at 49.3, a reflection of the ongoing pressure from shifting US trade policy.

“In the meantime, governments should redouble efforts to make trade facilitation simpler, faster, cheaper and more secure with digitalization,” Walsh added.

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Antonov reveals An-124 relocated to Germany after main Russian parts removed

Clement Charpentreau — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 13:08:46 +0000

Antonov has confirmed that the An-124-100 Ruslan aircraft observed flying out of Ukraine on July 11, 2025, was not only extracted from the country but had also undergone a deep modernization program, a detail revealed in a company statement issued on July 16, 2025.

The aircraft, registered UR-82073 and renamed “Be brave like Irpin”, departed Kyiv’s Sviatoshyn Airfield before landing at Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ), rejoining Antonov Airlines’ operational hub in Germany. The flight drew attention as Ukraine’s airspace remains closed to civilian traffic since February 2022, with only special missions authorized under strict control.

Upgrade project began in 2021, paused by war, and completed in June 2025

According to Antonov, the modernization project began in 2021 and aimed to replace Russian-made components with parts sourced from Ukraine and Western manufacturers. Work was interrupted when Russia launched its full-scale invasion, leaving the aircraft in a disassembled state. Despite the disruption, Antonov engineers completed the upgrade in June 2025, describing the achievement as “a symbol of stability, professionalism, and unity of Ukrainian aircraft manufacturers.”

The aircraft, built in 1994, has accumulated more than 21,000 flight hours and 5,500 flights. It will now resume service on international routes as part of Antonov’s fleet of five An-124-100s based in Germany since 2022.

Unlike the An-225 Mriya destroyed at Hostomel, UR-82073 had been stored at Kyiv’s Sviatoshyn Airfield since 2022, shielding it from the frontline battle. Its return to operational status comes as Antonov Airlines bases its active fleet of An-124s in Leipzig, supporting global heavy-lift logistics.

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Lufthansa Cargo to develop VR training for aircraft loading supervisors

Jean Carmela Lim — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 03:05:00 +0000

Lufthansa Cargo announced that it is setting new standards in the air freight industry by developing a new type of virtual reality (VR) training for aircraft loading supervisors.

The company said that the VR training is designed to prepare employees for aircraft handling tasks in a realistic manner – flexibly, safely and independently of operational requirements.

“The immersive nature of VR technology allows learning content to be conveyed more intensively and promotes a lasting practical understanding of the processes,” Lufthansa said.

The company added that VR allows learning content to be internalized much more quickly, as training participants can focus better on the content.

Lufthansa said that the use of VR not only offers a cost-efficient and flexible training option, but also an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional training methods, as fewer physical resources are required and the learning content can be delivered in a consistently high quality.

“With this project, we are not only strengthening the qualifications of our Aircraft Loading Supervisors, but also our role as an innovation driver in the industry. This technology allows us to train our employees in a practical manner while ensuring the highest safety and efficiency standards,” said Momo Ruzic, Station Manager Frankfurt at Lufthansa Cargo.

Lufthansa Cargo is one of the first companies in the air freight industry to use VR to train aircraft loading supervisors.

The rollout of the first module of the training is scheduled for October 2025.

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Antonov An-124 flies over Kyiv for the first time since 2022, lands in Leipzig

Clement Charpentreau — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 12:42:49 +0000

An Antonov An-124-100 cargo aircraft operated by Ukraine’s Antonov Airlines flew over Kyiv on July 11, 2025, before landing at Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) in Germany, in what appears to be an extraction flight through Ukraine’s restricted airspace.

The aircraft, registered UR‑82073 and operating under flight number ADB9154, was observed over the Ukrainian capital. Ukraine’s airspace has remained closed to civilian aviation since February 24, 2022, due to the ongoing war, with only military, government, and special humanitarian flights allowed under strict control.

A Ukrainian Antonov Airlines An-124-100 cargo aircraft was seen flying over Kyiv today. pic.twitter.com/Ngd8KeFljj
— Polymarket Intel (@PolymarketIntel) July 11, 2025

Safely stored during the war

Unlike other Antonov aircraft damaged during the Battle of Hostomel, UR‑82073 was undergoing maintenance at the time of the invasion and was stored at Kyiv’s Sviatoshyn Airfield, home to the Antonov Serial Production Plant. This location shielded it from the destruction that struck Hostomel Airport, where the An-225 Mriya, the world’s largest aircraft, was destroyed.

Another An-124, UR‑82009, was not as fortunate and sustained severe damage during the fighting at Hostomel.

Back with the Antonov fleet in Germany

Following the attack on Hostomel, Antonov Airlines moved its operational hub to Leipzig/Halle Airport in Germany, where it now bases its fleet of five active An‑124‑100 aircraft. These aircraft continue to support global logistics and strategic airlift missions.

The purpose of the flight from Kyiv remains unconfirmed, and Antonov Airlines has not issued a public statement on the operation. UR‑82073’s landing in Leipzig suggests it may have been relocated to rejoin Antonov’s active fleet abroad.

This is not the first time large cargo aircraft have quietly exited Ukraine under special arrangements. In December 2022, two Turkish Air Force A400M aircraft that had been stranded at Kyiv-Boryspil International Airport since the start of the war were finally allowed to leave. Originally sent on a humanitarian mission, the aircraft remained grounded for 10 months before successfully returning to Turkey following diplomatic negotiations.

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Cathay Cargo transports 10 ancient Terracotta figures to Perth for exhibition

Luke Peters — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 09:39:23 +0000

Cathay Cargo, the freight division of Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific Group, has just completed the safe transportation of ten terracotta army figures and over 200 artefacts from Xi’an in China to Perth via Hong Kong for a new exhibition, which is also sponsored by the airline group. The ‘Terracotta Warriors: Legacy of the First Emperor’ exhibition, organised by the Shaanxi Provincial Cultural Heritage Administration with support from the Shaanxi Cultural Heritage Promotion Centre, will be displayed in Perth in conjunction with Qinshihuang’s Mausoleum Site Museum and the Western Australian (WA) Museum Boola Bardip.

Leveraging its expertise in the transportation of ancient artefacts and valuable cargoes, Cathay Cargo worked closely with the shipment custodians and cargo agent partners to develop a customised transportation plan tailored to the unique nature of the cargo and the specific packaging requirements provided by the customer. “The plan meticulously addressed every detail to ensure the safe and secure storage, transport, and delivery of these irreplaceable pieces of history, all under the watchful eyes of CCTV surveillance and Cathay Cargo’s highly trained professionals,” said a Cathay Cargo statement.

“The transportation demonstrates Cathay Cargo’s expertise in handling special cargo, and its commitment to excellence and precision in moving invaluable cultural treasures,” it added.

Cathay Cargo

“The terracotta warriors are among China’s most iconic cultural treasures,” commented Cathay’s Director of Cargo, Tom Owen. “It is a great privilege to help bring Chinese culture to the world by transporting these important relics from their home in Xi’an to Perth for the exhibition, ensuring their safe transport at every step of their journey.

“Transporting these unique pieces of history involved meticulous preparation and close collaboration between our teams, partners, and authorities in Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland, and Australia to ensure every detail was carefully considered. We are delighted to have the opportunity to showcase Cathay Cargo’s expertise in handling special cargo and demonstrate that ‘We Know How’”, he added.

Cathay Cargo

While the statues and artefacts originate in Xi’an, they were first transported to Zhengzhou, where they were then flown to Australia via Cathay’s Hong Kong hub and transported to their final destination in Perth. The Cathay Cargo team oversaw the inventory check and packaging process from the initial stage in Xi’an. The shipment was then tracked via GPS from departure in Xi’an until arrival at Zhengzhou Airport (CGO), whereupon the cargo was directed to a dedicated delivery zone and security channel.

More about the transportation

Cathay Cargo developed a tailored build-up plan based on the customer’s loading diagrams to ensure the utmost care was rendered. Safety nets and straps were used to secure the artefacts, preventing any movement during transit. Experienced pallet build-up specialists also provided guidance on-site, while Cathay Cargo personnel maintained full oversight end-to-end. The shipments were loaded in precise alignment with the customer’s specifications to minimise impact from take-off and landing, and were continuously monitored under real-time surveillance throughout the ground-handling process.

A Periam Photography / Shutterstock

“What makes this exhibition unique and the first of its kind is its impressive collection of priceless artefacts,” said WA Museum Boola Bardip Director of Museums and Exhibitions Jason Fair. “Most of the objects have never been seen in Australia before, with nearly half leaving China for the first time. It is our mission to inspire curiosity. We hope people gain an understanding of the culture, history, and people of China, as well as this pivotal moment in Chinese history.”

Cathay is also sponsoring the ‘Terracotta Warriors: Legacy of the First Emperor’ exhibition at the WA Museum, which runs until 22 February 2026. Visitors will be able to encounter the awe-inspiring terracotta warriors alongside ancient weapons and armour, sculptures of a horse and chariot, bronze vessels, palace tiles, pottery, and artefacts. Cathay Cargo has also been tasked with transporting the collection back to Xi’an in 2026 after the exhibition’s conclusion.

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Cathay subsidiary Air Hong Kong closes seven-year fleet renewal with new A330F

Ian Molyneaux — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 09:15:01 +0000

Cathay Group subsidiary Air Hong Kong has completed a seven-year re-fleeting program with the arrival of its latest Airbus A330F.

Air Hong Kong will now operate an all-Airbus A330F freighter fleet, thanks to a process that saw the retirement of the airline’s last A300-600F.

With the completion of the re-fleeting program, Air Hong Kong now operates 10 A330-300P2F (passenger-to-freighter converted aircraft) and four A330-200F freighters.

Air Hong Kong first began operating the A300-600F on behalf of its key partner DHL Express in 2004.

“The A300-600F has been a stalwart of Air Hong Kong’s fleet and an important part of our story for over two decades. Its contribution to not only our business, but to the Hong Kong international aviation hub as a whole, has been considerable and we fondly bid farewell to this valued member of our fleet as we enter this exciting new chapter,” said Air Hong Kong CCO Clarence Tai on June 27, 2025.

Air Hong Kong

Air Hong Kong’s re-fleeting program began seven years ago, starting with the introduction of its first wet-leased A330F in February 2018.

“The new-generation A330F brings with it considerable benefits that will enable us to further enhance our operations and services for our customers and continue to play an important role in the ongoing growth of Hong Kong’s air cargo sector,” Tai said.

Cathay Group has already begun adding more than 100 new-generation aircraft to the fleets of Cathay Pacific, Cathay Cargo and HK Express over the coming years, including narrowbody, regional widebody, long-haul widebody and large freighter aircraft.

Air Hong Kong was established in 1986 as Hong Kong’s first all-cargo airline and principally operates cargo services for DHL Express.

“Balancing our customers and operational needs has always been top of mind for us. Our decision to re-fleet aircraft years ago reflects our foresight to invest in ourselves so that we are ever-ready to support our customers,” said DHL Express Senior Vice President for Network Operations & Aviation – Asia Pacific Peter Bardens.

He added: “The A300-600F was instrumental to our robust aviation network for many years. As we bid farewell to this valued member of our fleet, we are excited to welcome a new chapter with this new generation of freighters.”

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FedEx Express marks 40 years of transatlantic airborne operations

Luke Peters — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 09:20:36 +0000

FedEx Express, the airline subsidiary of US-based FedEx Corporation, the world’s largest express transportation company, is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its inaugural scheduled transatlantic service. On June 15, 1985, a fleet of seven Federal Express Boeing 727s took to the skies, establishing air links between New York, London, and Brussels for the first time, in what the company describes as “a key moment in redefining global commerce and connectivity.”

14 years after the company first began operations from its first base at Little Rock, Arkansas, FedEx established regular freight services between the US and the three major cities in Western Europe.

“The establishment of FedEx’s transatlantic route wasn’t just about moving packages; it was about laying the groundwork for an era of unprecedented economic integration,” said a FedEx statement. “Faxes were phased out, PCs appeared, and air freight of everything from pharmaceuticals to machine parts, and perishable foods flourished. FedEx’s rise from humble beginnings to industry titan is nothing short of remarkable. Back in 1973, FedEx kicked off operations delivering 186 packages. Fast forward to today, FedEx stands strong as a global network handling over 17 million shipments every single day.”

FedEx Express

Operationally, FedEx’s footprint has expanded dramatically. From initially serving just 25 US cities using a fleet of 14 Dassault Falcon jets to deliver 186 packages on its first night of operations, FedEx now connects more than 220 countries and territories, linking continents and facilitating a level of overnight logistics to global commerce. Having started with just 389 employees, the company now employs a global team of over 500,000 staff.

“In 1985, the concept of rapid, reliable transatlantic shipping was just coming to the fore, as groundbreaking as the first commercial internet connections that would soon follow,” said Wouter Roels, regional president of FedEx Europe. “Our commitment to connecting Europe and North America then, and now, has played a crucial role in the evolution of modern supply chains. Just as personal computers began to revolutionise offices, the FedEx effect established the physical infrastructure to allow the global trade we all rely on today to flourish.”

FedEx Express

FedEx’s integrated air and road network across Europe has expanded significantly since 1985, reflecting to a large extent how global trade has evolved. With two air freight hubs and 27 road hubs connecting 45 countries daily, FedEx now sorts an average of two million packages daily across over 550 pick-up and delivery stations in Europe.

Transatlantic capabilities

According to the company, “FedEx’s next-day transatlantic capabilities connect 90% of Europe to most US business centres, offering customers choice in delivery times for global shipments, and providing agility for their own business operations. European e-commerce traders particularly benefit from day-definite international shipping services, balancing speed with attractive prices, and the offer of a dedicated regional freight service across 22 countries for less urgent packages.”

“The transatlantic trade relationship continues to be a cornerstone of the global economy,” Roels added. “While the dynamics have certainly evolved – from the rise of e-commerce to the focus on sustainable logistics – our mission remains the same: to provide certainty in an uncertain world. We are proud to have been a part of European trade for four decades and look forward to facilitating ever greater growth and innovation in the years to come.”

Daisuke Shimizu / Shutterstock

FedEx has not only become one of the world’s largest express transportation companies, but also one of the world’s largest airlines. According to ch-aviation, the carrier’s fleet currently consists of 420 aircraft with both jet and turboprop aircraft employed. It still flies almost 60 Boeing 757 freighters, making it one of the only carriers to still fly the venerable twinjet in such numbers, and while it still has ten remaining McDonnell Douglas MD11 tri-jets in service, these are the next aircraft to be gradually phased out from regular cargo operations by the airline, to be replaced by Boeing 777Fs.

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Canada escalates legal bid to seize Russian An-124 aircraft stranded in Toronto

Clement Charpentreau — Tue, 06 May 2025 13:46:13 +0000

The Canadian government has taken further legal steps to gain full possession of a Russian Antonov An-124 cargo aircraft that has been stranded at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) since February 2022.

The aircraft, operated by Volga-Dnepr Airlines, was stranded in Canada just days after Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

A spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada told local news outlet INsauga that on March 18, 2025, the Attorney General of Canada initiated forfeiture proceedings with the Superior Court of Ontario.

“A person or entity with an interest or right in the seized property has the opportunity to present evidence and participate in administrative and judicial proceedings,” the unnamed official said in a statement.

The aircraft in question, registered as RA-82078, is owned by Volga-Dnepr Airlines, a Russian cargo operator that is a subsidiary of the Volga-Dnepr Group. The Antonov An-124-100 Ruslan, which boasts a lifting capacity of 150 tons, is one of the largest cargo aircraft in the world. Its ability to carry oversized and heavy cargo makes it a highly valuable strategic asset for both commercial and military logistics.

The Russian-registered Antonov An-124 aircraft has been parked for over three years at Toronto Pearson International Airport (Greg finnegan / Shutterstock.com)

At the time of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, the aircraft was delivering a shipment of COVID-19 test kits from China to Canada. Three days later, while the aircraft was still unloading its cargo in Toronto, Canada closed its airspace to Russian carriers, effectively leaving the An-124 stranded.

In June 2023, Canada formally ordered the seizure of the aircraft as part of its sanctions in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The Canadian government later announced its intention to transfer the aircraft to Ukraine, aiming to use it to support post-war reconstruction and compensate victims of human rights abuses.

Canada’s Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly defended the seizure, stating in a previous press release that the move sends a strong signal to Moscow.

“There will be nowhere left to hide for those who support and profit from the Kremlin’s war of aggression,” Joly said. “Canada has been there to support Ukraine’s fight for freedom since day one and we will continue to be there through their victory to aid in their reconstruction efforts.”

In response, Volga-Dnepr Airlines initiated legal action in the Federal Court of Canada in December 2023, challenging the legality of the sanctions and the seizure. The airline argued that it had no involvement in Russia’s military activities or connections to groups such as the Wagner Group. It also claimed that the aircraft had been neglected while at Toronto Pearson Airport, receiving no maintenance and suffering exposure to the elements.

In February 2025, the Canadian government expanded its seizure order to include additional parties believed to be directly or indirectly involved in the ownership or control of the Antonov An-124 grounded at Toronto Pearson International Airport. The updated order named Aleksey Ivanovich Isaykin, Volga-Dnepr Airlines (Ireland) Limited, Volga-Dnepr Logistics B.V., and Sberbank, along with Volga-Dnepr Group and Volga-Dnepr Airlines.

The outcome of the legal proceedings could set a significant precedent for the seizure of foreign state-linked property under sanctions regimes. The aircraft remains at Toronto Pearson Airport while the court cases continue.

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IATA: Air Cargo demand up by 4.4% in March 2025 as jet fuel prices fall

Luke Peters — Tue, 06 May 2025 10:28:04 +0000

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has released its latest data relating to global air demand for March 2025. The figures show that the industry continues to grow despite ongoing economic uncertainty in many markets worldwide, and despite geopolitical tension in several areas.

The highlights of IATA’s latest report, published on May 5, 2025, show that total demand for air cargo capacity, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), increased by 4.4% compared to March 2024 levels, with a 5.5% increase for international operations, a historic peak for the month of March. At the same time, total air freight capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK), expanded by 4.3% compared to March 2024, with international operations experiencing a rise of 6.1% year-on-year.

According to the IATA report, several key factors in the operating environment affected the performance of air cargo operators during the month. Firstly, March volumes typically rise after a historic lull in the month of February each year, meaning that single-digit increases have not been unusual in the post-pandemic era. Secondly, jet fuel prices dropped 17.3% in March year-on-year, which not only reduced air cargo shipping rates more competitive versus surface marine cargo costs but also marked the ninth straight month of year-on-year declines.

Minh K Tran/ Shutterstock

Other factors said to have had an impact on making air cargo more attractive to freight companies were the sharp rises in US tariffs being imposed (along with reprisal increases by other key trading countries) as well as new trade rules, and in particular the impending ban on duty-free imports from China and Hong Kong which came into effect on May 2, 2205. All of these factors may have prompted companies and buyers to make purchases in advance of the tariff and rule changes to avoid their goods attracting significant additional import fees.

IATA said that world industrial output grew 3.2% year-on-year in March 2025, and trade volumes expanded 2.9% overall. This resulted in many key Consumer Price Inflation (CPI) indices falling. Additionally, the US inflation rate was 2.4% during the month, down 0.4 percentage points from February 2025, while the EU CPI was 2.5% and Japan’s rate fell to 3.6%. China’s economy remained in deflation, but this eased to -0.1%, added the IATA report.

“March cargo volumes were strong,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General. “It is possible that this is partly a front-loading of demand, as some businesses tried to beat the well-telegraphed April 2, 2025, tariff announcement by the Trump Administration. The uncertainty over how many of these proposals will be implemented may eventually weigh on trade.”

“In the meantime, the lower fuel costs, which are also a result of the same uncertainty, are a short-term positive factor for air cargo. And, within the temporary pause on implementation, we hope that political leaders will be able to shift trade tensions to reliable agreements that can restore confidence in global supply chains,” Walsh added.

KITTIKUN YOKSAP / Shutterstock

Regional performance breakdown

Breaking the overall figures down by region, it becomes clear which geographical areas are driving the increase in air cargo the most.

Asia-Pacific airlines saw a 9.6% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in March 2025, the strongest growth recorded among any of the main regions. Capacity, meanwhile, increased by 11.3% year-on-year. North Americancarriers saw a 9.5% year-on-year increase in demand growth for air cargo in the month, while capacity increased by 6.1% year-on-year.

In Europe, carriers saw a 4.5% year-on-year increase in demand growth for air cargo in March, while capacity increased 2.0% year-on-year. Middle Eastern carriers saw a 3.2% year-on-year decrease in demand growth for air cargo in March 2025. Capacity increased by 0.8% year-on-year. IATA stated in its report that there was a possibility that the “weakness in this market is due to year-on-year comparison with the strong growth at the start of 2024, resulting from disruption to Red Sea maritime freight.”

Mauvries / Shutterstock

Latin American carriers saw a 5.8% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in March, while capacity increased 4.7% year-on-year. African airlines saw a 13.4% year-on-year decrease in demand for air cargo in March 2025 – the slowest among the regions, although capacity increased by 10.5% year-on-year.

In terms of global trade lane growth, IATA said that the Europe to North America route was the busiest trade lane in March 2025. The largest trade lane by market share, Asia-North America, also grew strongly, the organization added, possibly encouraged by front-loading shipments ahead of potential increased tariffs. Meanwhile, Europe to the Middle East and Africa to Asia were the only trade lanes to decline in March. 2025.

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Qatar Airways Cargo unveiled as Mammoth Freighters 777-200LRMF launch customer

Ian Molyneaux — Fri, 02 May 2025 13:48:48 +0000

The first Mammoth Freighters 777-200LRMF will be heading to Qatar Airways Cargo, an agreement having been reached between the airline and lessor Jetran for five aircraft.

Qatar Airways Cargo confirmed on May 2, 2025, that the first converted 777-200LR prototype aircraft, now registered as N705DN, had successfully completed its initial test flight.

The extensive conversion was handled by Mammoth’s modification partner facility, Aspire MRO, in Fort Worth, Texas, and was designed to “set new standards” in the freighter industry.

“This milestone is the culmination of years of dedicated engineering, collaboration, and innovation,” said Bill Tarpley, CEO of Mammoth. “Our mission is to deliver one of the world’s most productive and economical long-range freighters, and today’s achievement is a testament to the hard work and expertise of our entire team and partners.”

He added: “We are also thrilled to announce Qatar Airways Cargo as the launch customer for our 777-200LRMF freighter. Their commitment reflects the long-term value and capabilities this aircraft offers.”

The Mammoth 777-200LRMF features the advanced Collins Aerospace cargo loading system, specifically optimized for the 777 passenger-to-freighter market.

“As the launch customer of the Mammoth 777-200LRMF converted freighter, Qatar Airways Cargo proudly continues to lead global trade as the world’s largest air freight carrier,” said Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo. “This additional freighter capacity will be instrumental in advancing our fleet growth and expanding the premium cargo services we provide to customers worldwide.”

Drusch added: “The growth of our fleet with the Mammoth 777s reflects our commitment to operating the largest freighter network and fleet in the industry.”

Mammoth, a Boeing Licensee, currently has seven 777-200/-300 aircraft undergoing conversion – five at Fort Worth, plus two at STS Aviation Services in Manchester, UK.

Jetran’s CEO, Jordan Jaffe, said that he was proud to have Qatar Airways Cargo “play such a prominent role as launch customer for this groundbreaking program,” and was looking forward to its eventual certification and entry into service.

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The epic journey of an Airbus H125 helicopter: from Norway to New Zealand

Miquel Ros — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 13:33:24 +0000

As the crow flies, it’s almost 18,000 km (11,000 miles) from the fjords of Norway to those of the South Island of New Zealand.

In fact, it’s hard to think of a pair of cities that are further apart than Oslo and Christchurch. And yet, an Airbus Helicopters H125 light helicopter was recently transferred between these two cities, arriving in New Zealand on April 23, 2025.

The helicopter did not self-deploy, but was rather transferred in a complex multi-modal, multi-stage operation, which involved surface and air modes of transportation across several countries and three continents.

The operation was coordinated by B&H Worldwide, a UK firm specializing in aerospace logistics.

The helicopter was first ferried in a truck fitted with a curtain side trailer from Oslo to Brussels-Zaventem (BRU) international airport. There, it was prepared for its long journey by air. Firstly, it was partly disassembled, then fitted into a pallet and loaded into the belly of a Singapore Airlines Boeing 747-400F freighter.

The helicopter was flown to the airline’s hub at Singapore Changi airport (SIN), where it was unloaded and transferred to another B747-400F for the next leg of its trip.

The helicopter arrived in Auckland (AKL), New Zealand, after a 10-hour flight.

B&H Worldwide was proud to highlighted that, in spite of the complexity and length of the movement, the rotorcraft arrived at its final destination four days earlier than anticipated, due to having been able to secure an earlier freight slot in Singapore.

This was not the end of its journey, though. Upon arrival in New Zealand, the helicopter was reassembled, underwent re-certification by the local Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and finally delivered to Pacific Aircraft Services, an aerospace services firm based in Christchurch, in the South Island of New Zealand.

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Saudia Cargo signs MoU with China Cargo Airlines to broaden cooperation

Luke Peters — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 11:13:12 +0000

As the turmoil across intercontinental trade agreements continues, two companies are seeking to capitalize on any possible opportunities that might remain for cooperation. Saudia Cargo, the freight-only arm of Saudi Arabia’s national carrier Saudia, and China Cargo Airlines signed a Memorandum of Understanding at the World Cargo Symposium held in Dubai between 15 and 17 April 2025 to expand cooperation between the two companies to boost trade between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and China.

As reported by Payload Asia, Saudia Cargo and China Cargo Airlines (the latter being a joint venture between China Eastern Airlines and China Ocean Shipping), have signed the MoU to forge a strategic alliance to enhance trade links and logistics connections between Saudi Arabia and China.

The parties explained that their new partnership aims to “optimize export operations, provide advanced logistics services, and capitalize on growing global market demands, aligning these with Saudi Vision 2030 and China’s Belt and Road Initiative, ensuring resilient supply chains in today’s interconnected world.”

Minh K Tran / Shutterstock

The newly-penned MoU is set to establish a framework for enhanced collaboration, with both parties committed to strengthening interline cooperation, building upon existing and future SPA agreements. This includes joint marketing and promotional activities, the execution of joint marketing strategies, and a focus on harmonizing cargo service operations, pricing, and the provision of specialized cargo handling for sensitive goods.

“This MoU with China Cargo Airlines represents a significant milestone for Saudia Cargo. We are setting our sights on elevating shipping capabilities and broadening our export footprint in the Chinese markets,” said Loay Mashabi, CEO and Managing Director of Saudia Cargo. “By optimizing export operations and delivering advanced logistic services that cater to evolving global market demands, we are confident that this partnership will not only strengthen our position as a leading global cargo carrier but also contribute significantly to the realization of Vision 2030.”

“We are delighted to embark on this strategic journey with Saudia Cargo, added Wang Jianmin, President of China Cargo Airlines. “We firmly believe that by uniting our strengths and resources, we can generate substantial value for our customers, enhance trade connectivity between Asia and the Middle East, and play a key role in the success of both Saudi Vision 2030 and the Belt and Road Initiative. To ensure the effective execution of this MoU, we will establish an executive team comprised of representatives from both organizations, fostering seamless collaboration and driving impactful results.”

Minh K Tran / Shutterstock

Saudia Cargo currently operates a fleet of four Boeing 747-400 freighters (all wet-leased from Air Atlanta Icelandic), and four wholly-owned Boeing 777- 200Fs. China Cargo Airlines, meanwhile, operates a fleet of 15 Boeing 777-200Fs from the company’s base at Shanghai-Hongqiao International Airport (SHA).

Building on current growth

The new agreement is intended to expand on the recent success of Saudia Cargo’s “Landing in China in 24” campaign, launched in 2024. According to Payload Asia, the program generated significant engagement from the company’s key partners and underscored the growing demand for efficient logistics solutions connecting the Kingdom with key Chinese markets. China stands as Saudi Arabia’s primary merchandise trading partner, with exports reaching 16.1 billion SAR in 2023, representing 17% of the Kingdom’s total exports.

Omid Behzadpour / Shutterstock

Additionally, in April 2024, Saudia Cargo embraced the significance of China as a crucial market for its operations by expanding operations significantly to Shenzhen to meet the growing demand for air cargo services in the region. The airline began operating two weekly flights between the countries, enabling Saudia Cargo to “facilitate the seamless transportation of goods between Shenzhen and Riyadh, with Riyadh being identified as the most lucrative international market for Chinese businesses,” said Saudia Cargo at the time.

Vytautas Kielaitis / Shutterstock

“The introduction of regular flights to Riyadh presents significant opportunities for Chinese businesses, particularly in the e-commerce sector,” said the Company’s CEO. “Shenzhen is widely recognized as a hub for e-commerce, hosting major players such as Alibaba, Temu, and TikTok. By better servicing key clients, Saudia Cargo aims to cater to the increasing demand for air cargo services, especially for e-commerce,” he added.

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Qatar Airways Cargo, IAG Cargo, MASkargo plan to launch joint cargo business

Jean Carmela Lim — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 13:02:15 +0000

Qatar Airways Cargo, IAG Cargo, and MASkargo have announced their intention to collaborate and establish a joint global cargo business.

The proposed business plans will enable the group’s respective carriers to further enhance existing service levels to customers and partners across the global air freight market.

Qatar Airways’ said that the strategic collaboration, which will bring together the three cargo companies’ combined expertise and infrastructure, is aimed at creating significant customer benefits.

The proposed business plans include offerings such as enhanced connectivity,

faster transit times, and new routing opportunities across their combined networks.

The companies’ collaborative goal is to deliver greater value and service flexibility to customers worldwide. According to Qatar Airways Cargo, the parties are also working together to develop industry-leading harmonized safety and security standards for customers.

By combining resources, the three cargo companies hope to build a connected, responsive cargo network that will address the evolving needs of global trade and logistics. The carriers expect to implement its partnership soon, subject to obtaining necessary regulatory clearances.

“Today marks a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to redefine the global air cargo landscape. This agreement will bring together three strong players to offer unparalleled service and global connectivity, reinforcing our commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence,” Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo said in a statement.

Mark Jason Thomas, Chief Executive Officer at MASkargo said: “This strategic collaboration marks a pivotal moment for MASkargo and the air cargo industry. We are excited to partner with Qatar Airways Cargo and IAG Cargo to deliver a new era of value and innovation to our customers.”

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Why is global goods mobility important for functioning economies?

Dr. Klaus Radermacher — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 08:00:00 +0000

The global transport of goods is a central component of the global economy. Without it, globalization and trade would come to a standstill and the exchange of raw materials, intermediate and final products between countries, regions and continents would be impossible.

In this analysis I present the current situation, analyze connections and venture a look into the future. I will not only look at air freight, but also into freight and goods mobility from a more general perspective, i.e., other modes of transport, as this is important to understand the overall situation.

What freight quantities are transported and how far?

As with passenger mobility, cargo and freight transport can always be assigned to the four major mobility systems (modes of transport): sea freight, road freight, rail freight and air freight. Pipeline transport, which exists for gas and liquid hydrocarbons, is not considered in this text.

For a more detailed analysis, it is important to distinguish between two different parameters. On the one hand, many statistics look at the quantities of goods that are transported, often stated in millions of (metric) tons. If the distance is also considered in addition to the quantity, ton-kilometers (TKM) must be taken into account. 100,000 ton-kilometers are either a hundred tons of freight that are transported over a distance of 1,000 km, but it can also be just 100 tons that travel 10,000 km. If you look at it worldwide, you are usually dealing with billions or even trillions of TKM over the course of a year.

Sea freight accounts for around 80%-90% of global goods traffic. This is at least an estimate from UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development), which publishes various analyses and statistics. UNCTAD publications always point out that there are uncertainties in the published data due to survey deficiencies. In many countries, transport events, in particular on the road, are inadequately recorded and sometimes not recorded at all. Even for rail transport, there are sometimes only figures that have been estimated to a considerable extent because there is a lack of precise data collection and corresponding statistics. The most reliable data is available for freight shipping and air cargo.

For 2021, 11 billion tons of cargo (total goods loaded) are listed as cargo on ships. According to UNCTAD, sea freight volumes have grown by around 31% from 2010 (8.4 billion tons) to 2021, with slight declines during the pandemic earlier this decade.

In astudy conducted by the global logistics service provider DHL from April 2023, a total transport performance of around 60 trillion TKM by sea is assumed for the year 2010, which in return means that each ton of ship freight is transported an average of around 7,150 km, which withstands at least a certain plausibility check. The same source estimates 6.4 trillion TKM for global road freight in 2010, 4.3 trillion TKM for rail freight and 191 billion TKM for air cargo.

Daring outlook for 2050

Even though current figures for the global transport industry are difficult to determine, there are publications that dare to look ahead to 2050.

Forecast of global cargo transport until 2050; source of figures: DHL report

This graph first of all shows that the overall importance of sea freight is unlikely to change in the coming decades. It is interesting to note that similar growth rates are forecast for all four modes of transport. In relative terms, air freight is expected to grow the most, although the absolute figures show that the ton kilometers initially appear negligible compared to all other transport systems, especially sea freight. However, we will see later that this is a fallacy.

In connection with these forecasts, which expect growth of significantly more than 300% for all types of transport within 40 years, the fact that the respective infrastructure of the transport systems must be able to cope with this is particularly interesting and of great importance from a logistics point of view. Each system has its own hub infrastructure where transport processes begin and end (ports, freight and loading centers, train stations, airports), which must be expanded accordingly to be able to cope with the increase in volume.

For the land-based systems of rail and road, there is also a very complex and expensive path infrastructure between the hubs (rail lines, roads), which is not required for aviation and maritime shipping. The air between two airports and the oceans between ports are simply there and do not need to be built and never need any maintenance. Only in inland shipping, which is negligible in terms of volume, is such expenditure sometimes necessary.

It is already evident in many countries that increasing traffic volumes will not be possible on existing roads or railways. The corresponding construction projects are lengthy and are often delayed by years, sometimes decades. Previous projects to shift freight transport on a large scale from road to rail, for example, must be considered unsuccessful in many cases when realistically analyzed, even though billions of dollars of public funding have sometimes been invested in these projects. Meeting the demand of the expected growth in air cargo requires airlines and airports to invest in the necessary infrastructure, but no new streets, highways or railroad tracks are necessary.

Economic importance of cargo and freight transport

If you just look at the figures for the total quantity of goods transported, you might get the impression that air freight has no significance in international goods traffic. However, if you look at what is being transported and what value the goods have, a completely different impression emerges. For Germany, very precise figures on the goods transported and their values have been available for years. According to a recent publication by the Federal Agency for Civic Education (bpb), the volume of goods transported by air freight, based on the weight of all imports and exports, was around 1% in 2022. But this 1% of the volume of goods represents 35% of the value of the goods.

The average freight value per ton in 2022 was just under €153,000 for air cargo, while it was around €6,500 for road freight, around €2,500 for sea freight and just €2,000 for rail.

Average value of freight by means of transport; source of figures: bpb, BDL

Both the average value of air freight and the air freight volume in Germany are increasing overall. Since 2000, the total volume has increased by 54% annually, and the value of goods has increased by 81% in the same period. The export of goods by air freight has been around 60% of the total volume for more than 20 years, and imports accordingly account for around 40%. Imported goods recently had significantly higher values than exported goods. In 2022, it was just under €173,000 per ton for imports and just under €140,000 for exports. There are also considerable differences in the value of goods depending on the region and country. A ton of air cargo from Taiwan had an average value of more than 325,000 euros in 2022, only around 6% of this value was for air freight from Kenya, which, at just over 19,000 euros, was still many times higher than the average value of goods for all other transport systems.

Despite its small volume, air freight plays an important role, especially when high-value or perishable goods need to be transported. Microchips and other high-value electronics from Taiwan, spare parts for machinery all over the world that have to reach the recipient as quickly as possible or flowers from East Africa that many consumers do not want to miss even in the European winter are typical air freight.

For some observers, air freight is actually the backbone of the German export economy. Both the speed and the efficiency with which goods can be delivered to almost any point in the world at short notice play a decisive role here. In none of the three other transport systems are passenger and freight mobility linked as efficiently as in air freight.

Around half of all air cargo worldwide is transported as “belly freight” in the fuselage of passenger aircraft. During the COVID-19 pandemic, this situation led to significant problems with the air freight transport that was still necessary, but most of the passenger traffic did not take place and the passenger aircraft’s cargo capacity was therefore also lacking. In the meantime, air freight is simply loaded back onto many passenger flights depending on the available cargo space, and this trend is increasing. You do not always have to have your own cargo planes to fly air freight; this can be offered efficiently and cost-effectively even on routes where only a small volume of freight needs to be transported.

On the other hand, neither on the road, nor on the rails nor on ships do people and freight travel in the same vehicle on a regular basis these days. Until the 1980s, the Federal Railways in Germany still occasionally had combined train services in which freight wagons were attached to passenger trains. For the past 40 years, however, passenger and freight trains have been strictly separated.

Costs and efficiency of cargo transport

The most surprising finding for me when researching this article was the very low value of the goods, some of which are transported over very long distances. With less than €2,500 per ton in shipping and only around €2,000 by rail, the fundamental question arises as to what the costs of transport are in relation to the value.

It is extremely difficult to make general statements about the costs of the various transport options. In container shipping, the costs are calculated per container, so that in addition to the quantity to be shipped, the volume is also important, and the distance does not play a decisive role. Prices are currently quoted between US$1,500 and US$3,000 for 20- or 40-foot containers in intercontinental transport. For air freight, prices between US$4 and US$8 per kilogram apply for intercontinental transport. For Germany, DB Cargo’s current freight rates are around €202 per ton for rail freight with a payload of up to 21 tons in a freight wagon for a distance of 500 kilometers. For truck traffic in Germany, there is a study from 2022 in which the transport cost share of the product value of transported goods was already determined. Depending on the group of goods transported, the proportions vary considerably; for stones and earth, comparatively cheap products, the transport costs are between 54% and 69%, depending on the distance, for fertilizers between 7% and 16%, and for postal goods between 1% and 4%. However, average statements and cross-system comparisons that include all traffic systems and distances simply cannot be made seriously.

Another important role in efficiency is the extent to which the individual modes of transport are utilized in regular operations. In principle, the utilization of transport vehicles decreases with increasing specialization and with decreasing distance to the end customer. A concrete mixer that transports concrete the last few kilometers to the construction site can only ever be empty on the return trip because it simply cannot take any other goods with it. The same applies to trucks that deliver to supermarkets or other retailers. At best, returns or packaging material that is no longer needed could be loaded. Overall, the utilization of the trucks that roll through Europe every day is often less than 50%. Freight trains with open bulk wagons that are completely empty of freight can also occasionally be observed, for example, when coke or iron ore has been delivered to a steel plant. Here, there is simply nothing that could be taken along on the return journey and transported in the corresponding wagons. Ships, especially container ships and also aircraft, are much more flexible in this regard and, when looked at holistically over certain routes, achieve utilization rates of the offered freight capacity of more than 70%. In addition, the e-commerce activities of Asian providers, who often send parcels addressed to end customers directly from Asia to Europe and the US, are causing additional demand for air freight capacities, which exceed the continuously increasing supply capacities since the pandemic and contribute to the high utilization of the air freight capacities on offer.

Conclusion

Global freight traffic is essential for the economies of all countries trading with one another. Around 100 trillion ton-kilometers of transport are already carried out across all systems every year, primarily on sea-going vessels. Experts expect this to more than triple by 2050. These expected increases represent enormous challenges with regard to the necessary infrastructure, especially for the land-based road and rail systems. Adjustments to the node infrastructure must be made for all systems, but railroad tracks and roads also have to be expanded accordingly for trains and trucks, because in many countries the currently existing infrastructure is hardly able to cope with today’s traffic volumes, and planning and building new infrastructure takes decades. Having this in mind and considering the benefit of air cargo that absolutely no path infrastructure is necessary for aviation, the already forecasted growth until 2050 should make the industry optimistic. Efficient structures as well as continued endeavors towards greater sustainability might even lead to shifting more cargo from other transportation modes into planes.

As always and everywhere, future challenges require answers that do not come from an emotional point of view and do not emphasize our preferred personal ideology. Once again, rationality and an understanding of the mathematical and scientific relationships that underlie all mobility issues are required. The following applies to the transportation of goods worldwide: Mobility is expensive – both economically and ecologically.

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FedEx converts options into orders for a further eight Boeing 777F freighters

Luke Peters — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 13:37:14 +0000

US express freight giant FedEx has announced that the company has exercised options held for a further eight Boeing 777F freighter aircraft. The announcement comes as the carrier also revealed an order for ten additional ATR72 freighters, while FedEx also said that it intends to push back the retirement date of its aging fleet of McDonnell Douglas MD-11 tri-jets by a further four years until 2029.

Under the terms of the latest announcement, the carrier says it expects to receive three of the Boeing 777Fs in 2026 with the remaining five to be delivered the following year in 2027. According to a financial filing made by the carrier, the options for the Boeing 777Fs were confirmed as orders earlier in March 2025.

“We have several aircraft modernization programs underway that are supported by the purchase of 777Fs and 767-300Fs,” stated the filing. With a further eight 777Fs joining the global megacarrier’s cargo fleet, the company will see its commitment to the 777F substantially increase as it aims to modernize and standardize its widebody fleet. This is notwithstanding the decision to delay the retirement of the MD-11s.

Merrillie Redden / Shutterstock

The introduction of more modern aircraft such as the 777F and the 767-300F into its fleet will introduce significantly more fuel efficiency per unit into its widebody fleet, as the company continues to seek ways to cut costs and streamline its operations in the coming years. The addition of newer generation freighters will also allow FedEx to continue to grow market share rather than wait for the next generation of freighter aircraft such as the Airbus A350F and the Boeing 777-8F to enter service.

While the carrier will have little choice but to declare a commitment to one or both the new models at some point, the 777Fs will at least provide something of a stopgap until those aircraft arrive.

Ryken Papy / Shutterstock

According to ch-aviation, the current FedEx fleet now includes a staggering 415 aircraft, with 34 planes in storage and a further 39 on order. The airline’s biggest commitment is to the Boeing 767-300F, of which 134 units remain in active service with an average fleet age of 5.9 years. Meanwhile, the options on the 777F mean that the company will operate 66 777Fs, with an average current age of 9.4 years.

The carrier’s biggest future headache is likely to be its commitment to the aging Boeing 757F, of which it still has 85 in its fleet, although 22 are already shown as parked. With an average fleet age of 33.2 years, these will need replacing sooner rather than later, with the Airbus A321 a likely contender in that category.

On March 21, 2025, FedEx placed an order for 10 more ATR 72-600F regional aircraft adding to a previous agreement signed between the two companies in 2017. ATR confirmed that the 10 ordered aircraft were part of its 2024 undisclosed orders that it released in February 2025 and expects delivery of the ATR 72-600Fs to begin to FedEx in 2027 through to 2029.

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Five crewmembers dead after Kenyan cargo plane crashes in Somalia

Luke Peters — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 09:41:59 +0000

On March 22, 2025, a Kenyan-registered De Havilland Canada DHC-5D Buffalo cargo plane crashed as it prepared to land at Mogadishu-Aden Abdulle International Airport (MGQ) in Somalia. According to the Somali Civil Aviation Authority (SCAA), all five crew members reported to be Kenyan nationals, lost their lives in the accident.

The aircraft involved, registered as 5Y-RBA and operated by Kenyan air cargo operator Trident Aviation, came down in Ceel Xabaaloow, a village located around 24 kilometers (15 miles) southwest of Mogadishu Airport. The crash occurred at 17:43 local time as the aircraft concluded a domestic cargo flight from Dhobley airstrip in southwest Somalia to Mogadishu, although further details as to the cause of the accident remain limited at the time of writing.

Tragic news: A Kenyan-registered DHC-5 Buffalo cargo aircraft (5Y-RBA) operated by Trident Aviation has crashed 24km SW of Mogadishu while en route from Dhobley to Mogadishu. All 5 crew members, all Kenyan nationals, have sadly perished. #AviationNews #Somalia #Kenya pic.twitter.com/3VBmYehRDN
— Turbine Traveller (@Turbinetraveler) March 23, 2025

Reports by various local news outlets indicated that the aircraft had experienced technical difficulties in Dhobley earlier on the day of the accident, although a local source claimed the issues had been resolved before its departure on the ill-fated flight to Mogadishu. However, other reports have stated that the plane experienced a further technical failure en route and lost contact with air traffic control at approximately 17:43 local time.

The wreckage of the plane was later discovered by search teams from the National Intelligence Security Agency in the settlement of Ceel Xabaaloow near Jasiira, an outer suburb of Mogadishu. The bodies of all five crewmembers were quickly recovered and were transferred to a hospital in the Somalian capital.

The flight was reportedly flying to Mogadishu transporting supplies to the African Union forces – a multinational peacekeeping service deployed to maintain vital services and protect national infrastructure in Somalia as the country continues to face significant challenges due to an ongoing conflict with Al-Shabaab, a transnational jihadist military and political organization based in Somalia. The conflict has resulted in a desperate humanitarian situation exacerbated by drought and food insecurity, as well as political instability, with the central government struggling to exert control over the entire country.

Darian Froese / Wikimedia Commons

Local government agencies in Mogadishu, along with emergency services, and other local partners conducted a rescue operation at the crash site and the SCAA has begun a preliminary investigation to determine the likely cause of the crash. The organization stated that further information on the accident would be released once their initial investigations had been completed.

De Haviland of Canada built 126 DHC-5 Buffalos between 1964 and 1986, with the vast majority being built to fulfill orders placed by the United States Army and the Canadian armed forces. With its twin-engine high-wing configuration, the Buffalo was designed as a multi-role utility aircraft and was a continuation of De Havilland’s reputation of designing and building aircraft capable of short take-off and landing operations which began with earlier models such as the DHC-4 Caribou.

Balcer / Wikimedia Commons

According to Aviation Safety Network, this latest crash involving a Trident Aviation Buffalo is the fourth such accident since 1996, when another aircraft was severely damaged in a landing accident. That aircraft (5H-BAF) was subsequently repaired and resumed flying duties for the airline.

Then in 2007, another Buffalo (5Y-MEG) was involved in a ground collision with another aircraft resulting in damage to the Buffalo’s wing and engine. Lastly, in 2008, aircraft 5Y-OPL was substantially damaged during a landing accident in which the right-hand propeller struck the ground, and the landing gear collapsed. The aircraft was subsequently written off.

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CMA CGM to set up new air cargo hub in Chicago with Boeing 777 freighters

Luke Peters — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 13:19:48 +0000

French logistics giant CMA CGM Group is to establish a new air cargo hub in Chicago as part of the international freight conglomerate’s $20 billion investment in the US maritime transportation, logistics, and supply chain sectors over the next four years until 2030. The new Chicago O’Hare Airport (ORD) hub will benefit from a number of the carrier’s Boeing 777F freighter fleet being based at the airport, as the airline takes delivery of new aircraft during 2025.

The carrier is expecting two new Boeing 777Fs to be delivered to it in 2025, bringing its total fleet of the type to five units. In a statement issued by the company, it states that this expansion in US air cargo capacity will be “anchored by the new hub in Chicago, with five 777Fs operated by American pilots which will strengthen US trade and connectivity”.

Dirk Daniel Mann / Shutterstock

CMA CGM Air Cargo operates both scheduled and charter cargo-only flights from its main operating base at Paris-Charles De Gaulle Airport (CDG) in France. Established in March 2021 in response to the growing demand for international logistics solutions, the CMA CGM Group launched CMA CGM Air Cargo to complement its other operations in the global shipping, logistics, and freight-forwarding industries in which it is a major player.

The company began operating a fleet of two former Qatar Airways Airbus A330-200Fs and later expanded to operating the Boeing 777F, of which it currently operates a fleet of three of the type, with two more due to be delivered in 2025 to expand operations between Asia and North America. Additionally, in December 2021, the carrier became the launch customer of the Airbus A350F with an initial order for four aircraft. This order was then doubled in April 2024 to a total of eight aircraft.

Airbus

With Asia being the primary market for CMA CGM’s air cargo services, the airline has most recently been deploying two of its three 777Fs and its single remaining A330F on services from Paris-Charles de Gaulle to Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Zhengzhou. Its other 777F has been working the company’s scheduled route between Chicago O’Hare, Seoul, Hong Kong, and Anchorage.

Trump announces deal

The announcement regarding the US expansion of its airfreight division came as part of a visit by the chairman and CEO of CMA CGM, Rodolphe Saadé, to the White House on March 6. 2025. Following the meeting with President Donald Trump, the full details of the announcement regarding the $20 billion investment were revealed, which builds on the French shipping company’s 35-year presence in the US market.

M.J.J. de Vaan / Shutterstock

Today, the Group operates across 40 states and employs 15,000 US citizens. As one of the world’s leading transportation companies, CMA CGM transports over 5 million shipping containers to and from the US annually.

Speaking about his company’s investment in the US, Saadé said, “I am proud to build on our long-standing relationship with the United States through this commitment of $20 billion to the country’s maritime future and logistics capabilities. Over the next four years, we will significantly grow our US-flagged fleet, expand the capacity of key container ports on both coasts, develop state-of-the-art warehousing across the country, and establish a significant air cargo hub in Chicago. This will create 10,000 new American jobs and further strengthen our partnership with American customers and public authorities.”

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Emirates SkyCargo goes bigger and bolder with latest livery design

Ian Molyneaux — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 15:10:23 +0000

A new Emirates SkyCargo livery featuring a bigger and bolder design has been unveiled on its aircraft for the first time in Dubai.

Emirates SkyCargo revealed the latest layout on a Boeing 777F that arrived without a livery in July 2024 but was put out on cargo operations regardless.

Emirates SkyCargo announced on February 26, 2025, that the Boeing 777F, registered A6-EFV, had finally received a makeover from staff at Emirates Engineering and had rolled out for the first time this week sporting its new colors.

The updated livery took eight days to complete at Emirates Engineering’s in-house paint shop, but by the look of the new jet it was certainly more than worth it.

Emirates SkyCargo said that the most dramatic change was made to the Emirates Group’s iconic UAE flag on the tailfin.

Emirates SkyCargo

“Now, the design is more dynamic and flowing, with 3D effect artwork; likewise, the iconic gold lettering across the main body in English and Arabic is bigger and bolder,” said Emirates SkyCargo.

They added: “The Arabic calligraphy on the engines remains, as does the iconic red branding on the aircraft belly, ensuring key elements of the airline’s identity remain consistent.”

The Emirates SkyCargo team also released a video of the livery being updated on social media.

We're delivering a fresh look.

Our brand new Emirates SkyCargo livery is ready for takeoff. pic.twitter.com/pJUZXfJpTL
— Emirates (@emirates) February 26, 2025

“Emirates SkyCargo freighters are some of the most instantly recognizable aircraft in the skies, flying valuable commodities to and from 38 destinations worldwide. The investment in new livery represents our ongoing commitment to modernise our fleet, as we continue to build our capacity and unlock new opportunities to serve our global customers,” said Nadeem Sultan, Senior Vice President of Cargo Planning and Freighters, Emirates SkyCargo.

The new livery, which was first unveiled in March 2023, is the third iteration of Emirates’ iconic aircraft brand colors since launch in 1985.

All 10 Boeing 777 freighters in Emirates’ fleet will be gradually scheduled for their paint jobs and 13 SkyCargo jets on order will arrive emblazoned with the new livery on delivery.

In 2023, Emirates SkyCargo announced it expects to double its existing capacity over the next decade and add over 20 new destinations to its freighter network

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FAA calls for testing on Boeing 757 freighter cargo doors after incidents

Luke Peters — Mon, 24 Feb 2025 14:51:45 +0000

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has recommended that all worldwide operators of certain Boeing 757-200 converted freighters carry out a series of safety checks on the main deck cargo doors of these aircraft. The calls come after an incident in 2021 where the main cargo door of a DHL-operated Boeing 757 converted freighter opened mid-flight.

In the incident in question, the aircraft failed to pressurize following a routine departure from DHL’s European hub located at Leipzig-Halle Airport (LEI) in Germany. Although the crew onboard was aware of the pressurization issue, it was only later discovered that the main deck cargo door had failed to latch correctly, leading to its uncommanded opening in flight. The aircraft involved (registered G-DHKZ) had been operating a routine domestic cargo flight to Frankfurt in Germany on February 13, 2021.

Following the door opening at around 5,000ft (1,530m) as the aircraft climbed out, the crew elected to stop the climb and make an immediate return to Leipzig where an uneventful landing was carried out. The crew had reported to air traffic controllers of control difficulties with the autopilot engaged and they elected to manually fly the airplane and landed around 20 minutes after take-off.

The aircraft, originally delivered to now-defunct British charter carrier Inter European Airways in 1992, underwent conversion to a freighter by Precision Conversions LLC (‘Precision’) in 2011. The plane had been operated by DHL since but has since been retired. DHL subsequently confirmed that the flight had experienced “technical issues,” adding, “During the flight lightweight parts of an aircraft cargo door frame were torn off”.

Media_works / Shutterstock

The incident followed another of a similar type in 2014 when a Boeing 757 converted freighter operated by Yakutia Airlines in Russia suffered a series of main cargo door malfunctions resulting in the door not closing correctly and fully opening mid-flight on at least one occasion.

The Boeing 757 conversion process from a passenger-carrying 757 to an all-cargo variant includes the installation of the hydraulically operated main cargo door, plus mechanical latches to secure it during flight. The conversion also involves the strengthening of the main deck floor and the fitting of a specialized cargo-handling roller deck to expedite the loading and unloading of palletized cargo.

The conversion additionally involves proximity sensors being fitted which provide signals to the flight crew to confirm that the main cargo deck door is locked and latched, and an additional warning system to alert the crew to any anomalies with the cargo door mechanism.

As reported by Aerospace Global News, following a lengthy investigation and period of consultation with operators, the FAA has now issued a Special Airworthiness Information Bulletin (SAIB) to address potential safety concerns about the main cargo deck door on 757 conversions performed by Precision.

Precision Aircraft Solutions

The voluntary recommendations outlined in the February 21, 2025, bulletin are not mandatory and contain particular servicing and testing processes for the doors, including cleaning of view-port mirrors and windows, and painting of latches and lock pins. The FAA bulletin recommends that operators perform ‘door-open’, ‘door-closed’, and ‘latched and locked’ test procedures (as detailed in the Precision manual) every 5,000 cycles.

Specifically, operators are advised to check for smudges, debris, and other contaminants on view-port mirrors and windows, and to check the latches and lock pins for any visible paint defects, carrying out the documented cleaning and painting procedures if required. Crews should also follow procedures for operating in cold weather, including the removal of snow or ice around the cargo door itself and its opening and locking mechanisms, and consider the requirement for additional inspections of these parts in freezing fog or icing conditions.

According to the Precision website, its “designed, engineered, certified, Boeing 757-200 converted freighter is a stunning success, certified by the FAA, EASA, CAAC, Brazil, Russia, and Canada and with over 120 delivered and in service around the world. Precision’s 757-200CF is the market leader with the lowest operating empty weight and the highest available payload of any 757 conversions in production today.”

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Boeing delivers 100th 767-300BCF to world’s largest aircraft type operator

Ian Molyneaux — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 14:42:51 +0000

Boeing has delivered its 100^th 767-300BCF Converted Freighter to the world’s largest operator of the aircraft type, SF Airlines, marking a significant milestone in the project’s 17-year history.

Boeing confirmed on February 20, 2025, that, to mark the occasion, a special ceremony was held on Valentine’s Day at the Guangzhou Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Company (GAMECO) Phase III Hangar in China.

“Celebrating the 100th completed 767-300BCF with SF Airlines and GAMECO is a testament to the strong collaboration that goes into designing, converting and operating these versatile freighters,” said Doug Backhus, Boeing Vice President Cabin, Modifications and Maintenance.

He added: “The 767-300BCF will continue to play a vital role in the air cargo sector for decades to come, providing operators with the reliability and performance they need to be successful.”

GAMECO and Boeing first began working together in 2020 on a 737-800 passenger-to-freighter conversion.

“We are delighted to be part of the Boeing Converted Freighter program both for the 767-300BCF and 737-800BCF models and to support the impressive growth of SF Airlines,” said Dr. Marc Szepan, General Manager of GAMECO. “Having the opportunity to celebrate completion of the 100th 767-300BCF conversion is a particular honor for the entire GAMECO team.”

Based at Shenzhen Bao’an International (SZX), SF Airlines operates 19 767-300BCFs and 77 air cargo planes in total, according to ch-aviation.

Following the ceremony, the airline said that the 767-300BCF had played a “crucial role” in the company’s development since joining the fleet in 2016.

“This model has become the backbone of our network operation due to its excellent performance,” said Li Gang, Vice President of Maintenance of SF Airlines. “Whether on busy domestic routes or challenging international routes, the 767-300BCF has demonstrated high reliability and stability, helping SF Airlines continuously expand its business landscape.”

According to Boeing, the 767-300BCF is the world’s most efficient medium wide-body twin engine converted freighter, carrying up to 56.5 tons (124,600 pounds) and flying up to 3,345 nautical miles (6,190 kilometers).

The 767-300BCF has 15,724 cubic feet of total cargo volume with 24 pallet positions on the main deck, providing 11,884 cubic feet and 3,410 cubic feet in the lower hold.

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Magma Aviation expands and enhances operations in 2024

Avia Solutions Group — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 13:00:59 +0000

In 2024, Magma Aviation, the innovative air cargo solutions company, made significant progress. With its strategic hubs in Europe and expansions in Dubai and Dublin, Magma Aviation is well-positioned to make substantial improvements in operational efficiency and market coverage.

Last year, Magma Aviation signed a multi-year contract with Worldwide Flight Services (WFS) for freighter handling at Liege Airport (LGG) with the aim of enhancing handling capabilities. Additionally, the company also added narrow-body aircraft to their fleet, marking a significant step in diversifying and optimizing their operational capabilities. To capitalize on leasing opportunities the company opened a new global headquarters in Dublin. Furthermore, Magma Aviation has opened an additional office in Dubai to strengthen its commercial presence in the East and access new markets.

“2024 was a very exciting and challenging year for the Magma Aviation. We set out on a plan to make the most of the resources we were using. This will continue as we grow, but the one thing we introduced, and which we always keep in mind, is being quick to adapt. Considering the growth of Magma Aviation over the years, I think the strength has been our people. The team in the company are experts in what they do,” said Peter Kerins, CEO of Magma Aviation.

Last year the air cargo industry saw an 11.3% increase in demand compared to 2023, reaching record volumes. Cargo capacity increased by 7.4% in 2024 compared to the previous year, with international operations up by 9.6%.

With market growth and the company’s strategic ambition to expand, Magma Aviation decided to sign a contract with WFS for freight handling services at Liege. “We needed bandwidth in our handling partner in Liege as we proceed with our 5-year plan. WFS were the perfect choice”, commented Kerins.

Regarding Magma Aviation’s new global headquarters in Dublin, the CEO explained: “We have established our global services here because Dublin is a global aviation hub. This has allowed us to start developing better relationships with leasing companies. Approximately 50% of the world’s aircraft are leased from Ireland. To grow the company’s network, it is essential to strengthen our position here as new, more efficient, long-range aircraft come to market.”

Last year Magma Aviation also established a new office in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), to support its increased operations and growing demand in the Middle East. The decision to open an office in Dubai was an integral part of Magma Aviation’s global expansion strategy.

“Due to Dubai’s strategic central location, it is a well-connected hub from which we can access new markets. This allows us to manage the existing African and Middle Eastern routes, while focusing on expanding our presence in Southeast Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, and China,” shared Kerins.

Looking forward to 2025, growth in air cargo demand is expected to moderate but remain positive, estimated at around 5.8%. The global air cargo market will likely continue adapting to significant geopolitical shifts and economic conditions, such as changes in oil prices and global trade dynamics. These factors will influence both demand and capacity planning across the industry.

This year, Magma Aviation’s primary objective is to use its expanded capabilities to meet the evolving demands of the global air cargo market.

According to Kerins, market conditions for wide-body freighters at the end of 2024 did not make securing long-term lease deals a viable option, and this trend is anticipated to continue into 2025. While the company aims to secure multiple aircraft, it is also considering medium-size freighters to support its B747 international flights, with fleet expansion expected by Q3/Q4 2025.

Regarding the developments within the narrow-body network for 2025, the CEO of Magma Aviation said that it is important to note that narrow-body aircraft require a different sales strategy than long-haul wide-body aircraft. This is due to the impact of regional variations and positioning costs on competitiveness. While they are able to compete with wide-body passenger services on certain routes, flexibility in aircraft placement and a rapid response to customer inquiries are key. Quoting and pricing with speed is vital in maintaining a competitive edge.

Speaking about expanding General Sales Agent (GSA) model, Kerin explained: “Magma Aviation has always had a GSA model, or a strategic partner model, on our key base routes. We are looking at partnerships with sales partners in areas we intend to expand our network. These sales partners will become a key part of our sales strategy going forward and will be responsible for introducing Magma Aviation into markets where we have not had a presence previously. Our commercial team will work hand in hand with these partners.”

As Magma Aviation approaches its 15th anniversary, Peter Kerins remarked: “Given Magma Aviation’s growth over the years, I believe our most valuable asset has always been our people. This began with the founders and was reinforced by Chapman Freeborn over the past few years. Now, with the strength of Avia Solutions Group behind Magma Aviation, the future looks very promising. This is a testament to the dedication of our staff and management over the years.”

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Embraer’s E-Freighter E190F regional cargo jet receives full EASA certification

Luke Peters — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 09:08:24 +0000

Embraer’s E-freighter, based on the Brazilian planemaker’s popular E190 regional jet, has received its European Authority for Aviation Safety (EASA) certification just four months after the type received full certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the US followed by the National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil (ANAC). The EASA certification paves the way for the E-Freighter to begin global operations as a short-to-medium haul dedicated air cargo carrier.

The E190F program began in May 2022 to fill a gap in the air cargo market and to replace older, less efficient models. Embraer is pitching the E190F as a replacement for smaller, slower, and shorter-range turboprops. The aircraft is a passenger-to-freighter conversion, using the manufacturer’s E190 passenger plane as a platform that can be converted into a dedicated cargo-only aircraft.

It is envisaged that airlines’ progressive replacement of existing fleets of older E190 aircraft with Embraer’s new, more fuel-efficient E2 version of the type, will make many more airframes available for conversion in the future. Embraer claims the E190F offers over 40% more volume capacity, three times the range of large cargo turboprops, and up to 30% lower operating costs than larger narrowbodies. If combining capacity under the floor and main deck, the maximum structural payload of the E190F is 13,500 kg (29,700 lbs).

Embraer

The type made its first flight in April 2024 and its first public appearance at the Farnborough Airshow in July 2024. According to Embraer, “The E-Freighter meets the changing demands of e-commerce and modern trade, which require rapid deliveries and decentralized operations, driving the demand for faster delivery of shipments to regional markets”.

“EASA certification is a key milestone in our passenger-to-freighter conversion program,” said Martyn Holmes, Chief Commercial Officer, Embraer Commercial Aviation. This is an exciting market, and we have developed the perfect aircraft to fill the gap, meeting the demand globally for faster deliveries, not just to metro areas, but all regions. The E-Jets are a global success with a large footprint worldwide, we are now ready to offer the highest standard of freighter solution to customers globally,” he added.

Positioned in the market to fill the gap between turboprops and larger narrowbody aircraft, Embraer states that the E190F “offers the flexibility to adapt to changing market trends. The E-Freighter is the ideal aircraft to take over larger aircraft operations that are sub-optimally deployed both in terms of weight and volume. They also enable expanded coverage of time-definite services to more places than before and wherever people are.”

Embraer

“E-commerce demands fast deliveries and decentralized operations – something that a rightsized fleet of crossover jets like the E-Jets Freighter can offer versus larger aircraft. Full integration with pallets used in bigger aircraft allows for a smooth addition on current operational, but not necessarily optimized fleets. Being younger, more fuel-efficient aircraft, the E-Freighter can carry similar volume as their larger counterparts with much lower emissions, with lower operational costs.”

Embraer will be hoping that with EASA certification now secured, alongside that of the FAA and ANAC, the type will now prove to be an attractive proposition for airlines seeking to replace older turboprop freighters on regional routes and that orders for the E-Freighter will emerge.

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First Cessna SkyCourier arrives in Canada after clearing national certification

Ian Molyneaux — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 14:21:33 +0000

The first Cessna SkyCourier twin-turboprop has been delivered to the Canadian launch operator, Air Bravo Corporation, following certification by Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA).

On February 3, 2025, Textron Aviation, which owns the Cessna brand, confirmed that a freighter variant of the Cessna SkyCourier been handed over to Air Bravo and will be deployed for cargo transportation.

“The SkyCourier is a versatile aircraft, with cabin flexibility, high payload capability and performance and low operating costs. It has quickly proven to be an excellent choice for a wide range of missions,” said Lannie O’Bannion, Senior Vice President, Global Sales and Flight Operations, Textron Aviation. “We look forward to seeing Air Bravo utilize the aircraft to support and enhance their business operations.”

Founded in 2021, Air Bravo is a passenger, cargo and air ambulance flight service company based in Thunder Bay, Sudbury, Barrie and Meaford, Ontario and provides services to nearly any airstrip in North America.

“We’re proud to be the first SkyCourier customer in Canada, and this aircraft is a perfect fit for supporting the cargo side of our business,” said Rick Horwath, President and CEO, Air Bravo. “The aircraft has a roomy cockpit, it’s easy to fly and the avionics are user friendly. We look forward to putting it to use.”

The Cessna SkyCourier 408 was certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 2022, with logistics specialist FedEx selected as the launch customer.

On May 10, 2024, Textron announced that a combi cargo/passenger Cessna SkyCourier had received approval from the FAA.

The freighter variant delivered to Air Bravo is sized to handle up to three LD3 shipping containers with a 6,000 pounds of payload capability.

The SkyCourier is powered by two wing-mounted Pratt & Whitney PT6A-65SC turboprop engines and features the McCauley Propeller C779, a 110-inch aluminum four-blade propeller.

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Nolinor to order Natilus’ blended-wing-body aircraft for Far North cargo ops

Miquel Ros — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Canadian airline Nolinor Aviation has secured several production slots to acquire Kona blended-wing-body (BWB) aircraft from the Californian startup Natilus.

The Kona is a clean-sheet cargo aircraft concept being developed by San Diego-based Natilus, the brainchild of aerospace entrepreneur Aleksey Matyushev.

Thanks, in great part to its blended-wing-body design, the Natilus Kona is expected to be able to carry up to 3.8 metric tons of cargo over distances of 900 nautical miles, offering an operating cost reduction of 50% and fuel consumption savings of 30%.

Another structural element which has been key in the decision of Nolinor Aviation to opt for the Kona is the high position of its engines on the top rear side of the fuselage.

This element, Nolinor’s Chairman Marco Prud’homme confirmed to AeroTime, makes the Kona particularly suitable for operations in unpaved, gravel runways like the ones Nolinor regularly uses in the Canadian far north.

In fact, a large part of Nolinor’s operations consist in supply flights to and from remote outposts in the northernmost territories of Canada, mostly for mining and energy companies with which it has long-term contracts. For this purpose, Nolior operates a fleet of Boeing 737-200s which are specially equipped to land on gravel or ice runways.

“It’s a very interesting design for us” said Prud’homme on a phone conversation with AeroTime, “since most of the maintenance challenges of unpaved runway operations derive from the potential gravel ingestion by the engines.”

The Kona is still under development and needs to go through its certification process first, but Prud’homme was confident it could potentially enter service by the end of this decade.

Natilus / Nolinor

“We are not a public company, so we can afford to think longer term than others”, he stated to AeroTime.

The exact number of orders has not been disclosed yet.

“We’ll get less Konas than we would like!” exclaimed Prud’homme when asked about this particular point.

The Canadian executive also pointed out that he doesn’t see the Kona as a like-for-like replacement for the airline’s Boeing 737-200s, but as a complementary asset. In this regard, he expressed his intention to use the Kona to expand operations to new locations, taking advantage of the Kona’s ability to land and take-off from relatively shorter runways.

In 2023, Natilus successfully tested a sub-scale model of the Kona and in October 2024, it announced that it is also working on a blended-wing-body (BWB) airliner, which it calls “Horizon”, with capacity to carry some 200 passengers on long haul routes.

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All Nippon Airways receives green light for takeover of Nippon Cargo Airlines

Luke Peters — Mon, 03 Feb 2025 13:21:21 +0000

The Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC) has finally given the green light for All Nippon Airways (ANA) takeover of fellow Japanese carrier Nippon Cargo Airlines (NCA). The announcement comes over a year after ANA first mooted an interest in taking over its closest rival in March 2023. NCA, Japan’s only cargo-only airline, is owned by Japanese logistics giant Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha and currently operates a fleet of eight Boeing 747-8Fs and flies from 13 airports located throughout Japan.

In a statement released on January 30, 2025, the JFTC said that while it had given consideration to industry concerns about the impact of the takeover on competition in the Japanese cargo market, and on routes between Japan and the US, China, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, and Europe, in particular, it had found that there was ample competition on these routes and that it would remain post-merger.

While the JTFC had initially questioned the competitive landscape on freight-only routes between Japan and Los Angeles International (LAX) and Chicago O’Hare Airport (ORD), it found that the newly-merged entity would still only have a market share of 30% to Los Angeles and 35% in Chicago, leaving ample capacity for other operators to share on these two key routes between Asia and the US.

Photofex_AUT / Shutterstock

To provide reassurance to the Japanese regulators, both ANA and NCA also assured the authorities that they would seek to enter into a block space agreement with rival US-based freighter carrier Polar Air Cargo and would additionally appoint a lawyer and an economist to monitor the progression of the merger so that there was no opportunity that market dominance would ensue. The JFTC said the measures “created an effective check so that the group of companies involved cannot freely influence prices”.

“We expect the networks of ANA and NCA to complement each other,” said Shinichi Inoue, All Nippon Airways’ CEO. The aim is to enhance our competitive advantages by fully utilizing the operational capabilities of both carriers and to offer convenient options for customers.”

viper-zero / Shutterstock

However, the deal is still awaiting approval from competition authorities in China and Singapore. The JFTC says they are working with the relevant agencies in those countries. A similar situation transpired in 2023 when Chinese and Japanese competition agencies delayed ANA’s purchase of NCA.

ANA’s dominance of the Japan freight-only market would seem to be cemented with the takeover of NCA. ANA’s own dedicated freighter fleet consists of six Boeing 767-300Fs and two 777-200Fs, with a further two 777-200Fs on order. The carrier also has a pair of 777-8Fs on order from the US manufacturer. Its closest rival after NCA is Japan Airlines Cargo, which has a fleet of three Boeing 767-300F freighters. ANA also carried vast amounts of cargo in the belly space of its passenger fleet that serves 172 routes to 94 cities across 24 countries worldwide.

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Air cargo volumes set new record in 2024, rose by 11.3% over 2023 says IATA

Luke Peters — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 14:25:37 +0000

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced on Wednesday, January 29. 2025, that full-year global air cargo demand for 2024 (measured in cargo tonne-kilometers, or CTKs), increased by 11.3% compared to 2023, with international air freight volumes increasing by an even greater margin at 12.2%. These rises set new records for the air cargo industry which has been through turbulent times both before, during, and since the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to total cargo volumes flown, air cargo capacity also increased year-on-year, indicating that airlines are increasing the amount of air cargo capacity being offered in the marketplace. According to the latest air cargo report published by IATA, “Full-year capacity in 2024, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK), increased by 7.4% compared to 2023 (9.6% for international operations).

However, with global air cargo capacity increasing, this did have a downward effect on air cargo yields, dropping on average 1.6 percentage points lower than in 2023, although this figure remains a significant 39% percent higher than those seen in 2019. For the month of December 2024, demand increased 6.1% year-on-year (7% for international operations), capacity was 3.7% higher (5.2% for international operations) and yields were up 6.6% (53.4% higher than in December 2019), the update added.

Duc Huy Nguyen / Shutterstock

“Air cargo was the standout performer in 2024 with airlines moving more air cargo than ever before,” says Willie Walsh, Director General of IATA. “Importantly, it was a year of profitable growth. Demand, up 11.3% year-on-year, was boosted by particularly strong e-commerce and various ocean shipping restrictions. This combined with airspace restrictions which limited capacity on some key long-haul routes to Asia helped to keep yields at exceptionally high levels.”

Regional breakdown

Asia-Pacific airlines saw 14.5% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in 2024, the strongest among the regions. Capacity increased by 11.3% year-on-year. December year-on-year demand increased 8.4% and capacity increased 6.3%. North American carriers saw 6.6% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in 2024, the lowest of all regions. Capacity increased by 3.4% year-on-year. December year-on-year demand increased by 5.3% and capacity increased by 2.1%.

European carriers saw 11.2% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in 2024. Capacity increased by 7.8% year-on-year. December year-on-year demand increased by 5.1% and capacity increased by 3.7%. Middle Eastern carriers saw 13% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in 2024. Capacity increased by 5.5% year-on-year. December year-on-year demand increased by 3.3% and capacity increased by 0.2%.

Markus Mainka / Shutterstock

Latin American carriers saw 12.6% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in 2024. Capacity increased by 7.9% year-on-year. December year-on-year demand increased by 10.9%, the highest of all regions and capacity increased by 8.4%. African airlines saw 8.5% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in 2024. Capacity increased by 13.6% year-on-year. December year-on-year demand decreased by -0.9%, the lowest of all regions and capacity increased by 1.8%.

In terms of trade lane growth, international routes experienced exceptional traffic levels for the 17^th consecutive month in December 2024 with a 7% year-on-year increase Airlines are benefiting from rising e-commerce demand in the US and Europe amid ongoing capacity limits in ocean shipping.

Outlook for 2025

Looking ahead, IATA estimates growth to moderate to 5.8% in 2025, aligned with historical performances in the sector. “Economic fundamentals point to another good year for air cargo – with oil prices on a downward trajectory and trade continuing to grow. There is no doubt, however, that the air cargo industry will be challenged to adapt to unfolding geopolitical shifts,” the report stated.

“The first week of the Trump administration demonstrated its strong interest in using tariffs as a policy tool that could bring a double whammy for air cargo – boosting inflation and deflating trade,” added Walsh.

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Airbus to end BelugaST oversized cargo transport airline

Clement Charpentreau — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 13:43:11 +0000

European manufacturer Airbus has confirmed that it is to cease operations of its oversized cargo company, Airbus Beluga Transport (AiBT), a year after it obtained its Air Operator Certificate (AOC).

The announcement, made during an extraordinary Social and Economic Committee (CSE) meeting, marks the immediate end of the service due to a lack of external customers, as initially reported by French outlet Les Echos.

“We confirm that the activity of Airbus Beluga Transport for oversized cargo missions is ending,” an Airbus spokesperson confirmed to AFP.

The service was launched in response to the global shortage of outsized air cargo capacity, exacerbated by the destruction of the Antonov An-225 Mriya during the invasion of Ukraine by Russia and the unavailability of much of the Antonov fleet.

“The demand for outsized air cargo capability is on the rise,” Michael Schoellhorn, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space, had said in unveiling the BelugaST fleet as an alternative. “Capacity is scarce and, in light of current geopolitical developments, many customers are looking for new, fast and efficient solutions. This is exactly what we offer with our BelugaST fleet.”

Airbus Beluga Transport origins

The BelugaST aircraft, recognizable by its iconic whale-like design, was originally deployed to transport Airbus airliner components between production facilities. These aircraft were progressively replaced by the newer BelugaXL fleet, offering greater cargo volume and weight capacity.

Airbus Beluga Transport secured its own AOC on January 9, 2024. Airbus had aimed to serve sectors including military, space, energy, aeronautics, maritime, and humanitarian relief, offering a system that required no cranes for loading.

The BelugaST provides a unique volumetric capacity that few other aircraft can match. But despite its unique design, the BelugaST aircraft struggles to compete with the Antonov An-124-100 Ruslan, which boasts a lifting capacity of 150 tons, or the now-destroyed An-225 Mriya, capable of carrying a record-breaking 250 tons. In comparison, the BelugaST’s total lifting capacity of 35 tons fell significantly short for many missions requiring heavy or oversized cargo.

Airbus has yet to announce plans for the repurposing of the BelugaST fleet following the termination of the service.

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Windracers powers up with introduction of its newest cargo drone ULTRA MK2

Ian Molyneaux — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 13:42:11 +0000

During a vibrant launch event at the ME London hotel, UK-based cargo developer Windracers has introduced its newest unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), ULTRA MK2.

In front of an audience of media representatives and people connected to the company, the Windracers Founder and Group Executive Chairman Stephen Wright explained that the project began with just “a blank piece of paper” eight years ago.

The company’s first drone to reach the market, ULTRA MK1, is already successfully operating around the world and has racked up an impressive list of clients and customers.

Over the past few years ULTRA MK1 has operated in Ukraine, supporting the country’s armed forces, delivering humanitarian assistance to those most in need, and flying missions aiding scientific research in the Antarctic.

The new ULTRA MK2 includes 80 changes to the first-generation drone and comes with the ability to offer double the power output, bringing a 50% increase in useful payload as well as a significant reduction in fuel cost.

AeroTime

The ULTRA MK2, which was developed at Southampton University, has a 10m-wingspan, travelling up to 1,000 km at 77 knots with a cargo capacity of 150kg.

The company prides itself on the fact that, while other drone platforms are still testing, Windracers’ ULTRA aicraft is already “connecting people to the things they need and want today all over the world”.

At the unveiling event on January 16, 2024, attended by AeroTime, the audience heard from a raft of speakers connected with Windracers including active customers NORCE and Aviation Sans Frontieres.

Simon Thompson, Group CEO of Windracers, said: “Low cost is everything to us, combined with dependability, and the reason we look at those together is because that is how you disrupt the market.”

Thompson added: “From eliminating the need for a pilot to developing a multi-mission platform that is dependable and easy to use and maintain, our ultimate goal is to bring down the cost for the end user.”

According to Thompson, the ULTRA MK2 halves operational fuel cost per kilogram and allows for even more efficiency in the future for its customers in regions such as the UK and the US.

AeroTime

The company’s roots were established in finding low-cost solutions to deliver humanitarian assistance around the globe. It has developed into a variety of areas since starting up in 2017.

Windracers’ ULTRA MK2 can take-off, fly and land safely without the need for a remote pilot and with minimal ground operator oversight, whether during day, night or in fog.

ULTRA MK2 is controlled by its proprietary autopilot system, Windracers Autopilot, a multi-layered flight control system that is robust against flight control unit and sensor failures.

ULTRA MK2 also includes Windracers’ Mission Control, a route planning and aircraft monitoring system with an intuitive interface that requires minimal training.

Founder Stephen Wright spoke with pride at the launch event and ensured that the team behind Windracers were heaped with praise for their contribution.

Wright said: “I am so proud of the Windracers team, who have performed phenomenally to bring ULTRA MK2 to market in a very short time period, and for ULTRA development over the last eight years. I know the team shares my excitement as we see the operational impact of ULTRA MK2, for our customers to help people around the world.”

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Emirates SkyCargo adds two Boeing 747 freighters to meet rising demand

Luke Peters — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 14:41:02 +0000

Emirates SkyCargo, the air freight division of Dubai-based Emirates, is adding two additional Boeing 747-400F freighters to its fleet to meet soaring demand. The additional pair of widebody freighters will form part of the company’s newly expanded fleet which is expected to reach 21 dedicated cargo-only aircraft by the end of 2026.

Throughout 2024, the demand for Emirates SkyCargo’s services portfolio, along with its extensive global network and dedicated all-widebody aircraft fleet continued to grow at an unprecedented speed. The addition of the two wet-leased 747-400Fs, sourced from airfreight specialist carrier Compass Air Cargo, brings the carrier’s total main deck capacity for January 2025 to a level that is 15% higher than the same month in 2024.

According to a company statement, the investment in the additional two aircraft will “enable the airline to unlock immediate capacity to cater to customer demand, while the partners discuss avenues for further expansion of the collaboration.” The multi-year lease for the Boeing 747-400Fs fits in nicely with Emirates SkyCargo’s leasing strategy which sees leased-in aircraft complement its owned fleet.

InsectWorld / Shutterstock

In 2024, the airline received two factory-fresh Boeing 777Fs, which entered service immediately and brought the company’s owned fleet to ten units. In 2025, the carrier intends to focus on the increasing demand for eCommerce shipments from Asian markets, while the additional aircraft will also enable Emirates SkyCargo to expand its network of destinations served by freighters to 38, with the deployment of a new weekly freighter service serving Copenhagen in Denmark.

“Throughout 2024, we made significant investments in new and leased freighter aircraft to address the evolving supply chain and air cargo demands around the world to ensure we had a stable supply of capacity to best serve our global customers,” said Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates SkyCargo. “This remains a key priority for Emirates SkyCargo, as we set our sights on the next era of growth.”

“We anticipate that demand will continue to boom, reflecting Dubai’s prominence as a global logistics hub. Enhancing our cargo capabilities is essential to support Dubai’s Economic Agenda, enabling us to reach new destinations, bolster our current operations, and elevate our specialist product portfolio,” he added.

Vytautas Kielaitis / Shutterstock

In addition to the ten Boeing 777Fs and six leased 747-400Fs (bringing the current aircraft count to 16), the airline also has a further 13 Boeing 777Fs on order, with expected delivery dates spread across 2025 and 2026. This substantial orderbook, says the company, “will support the airline through its next phase of growth, while it explores all options for the future fleet, including the Boeing 777-8F and Airbus A350-1000F.”

While mentioning the Airbus A350, the arrival of new aircraft of this type into the Emirates fleet through 2025 and beyond, will further boost the company’s ability to offer increased belly-hold cargo capacity on Emirates passenger flights, offering 12 tonnes of capacity on every flight operated by the new Airbus twinjets. Elsewhere, Emirates SkyCargo continues to harness the multi-frequency schedules offered by the rest of Emirates’ passenger operations.

“The recently increased passenger flights to key cities including Madagascar via the Seychelles, Uganda, and Ethiopia, followed by Johannesburg, South Africa, and Melbourne, Australia before the end of this financial year, will further bolster the freight division’s capacity to transport goods worldwide,” concluded the statement.

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Taiwan’s STARLUX Airlines orders an additional five A350F freighters

Luke Peters — Thu, 09 Jan 2025 08:57:26 +0000

Airbus has announced that STARLUX Airlines of Taiwan has placed a firm order with the European-based planemaker for an additional five A350F freighters. This supplementary order doubles an initial order placed by the Taipei-based carrier in February 2024 for an initial five A350Fs. All of the ten freighters on order will be operated by the company’s dedicated freight division, STARLUX Cargo, on “some of the world’s busiest freight routes,” according to the carrier.

The yet-to-be-certified A350F, based on the A350-900 passenger variant of the widebody family of jets, will carry a payload of up to 111 tonnes and offer a range of 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 km). With its pair of Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, Airbus claims that the A350F will reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions of up to 40% when compared to previous generation aircraft with a similar payload-range capability, Additionally, the A350F will also be the only freighter aircraft that will fully meet ICAO’s enhanced CO₂ emissions standards, coming into effect in 2027, Airbus adds.

“The cargo market is set to become a key element in our business model and will benefit from the advantages offered by Taiwan’s geographical location,” said STARLUX Airlines’ CEO Glenn Chai. “The A350F is the perfect choice for STARLUX, offering a similar payload-range capability as previous generation freighters, but with very significant reductions in fuel consumption and carbon emissions.”

“We thank STARLUX Airlines for its ongoing confidence in Airbus and its products,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales Commercial Aircraft at Airbus. “The A350F will fit seamlessly into the carrier’s latest generation all-Airbus fleet which offers unrivaled levels of technical and operational commonality. This second order from this fast-growing airline is another endorsement of the all-new A350F as the future game-changer in heavy lift markets.”

Airbus

According to Airbus, the A350F will feature the largest main deck cargo door of any freighter currently available in the industry, with fuselage length and capacity “optimized around the industry’s standard pallets and containers,” according to the manufacturer. Over 70% of the airframe will be constructed from advanced composite materials, resulting in a 46-tonne lighter take-off weight when compared to its nearest rivals, the Boeing 777-200F and 777-300F.

Since its first commercial flight almost five years ago in January 2020, STARLUX Airline has steadily grown its operation and its aircraft fleet. Currently, the carrier operates a fleet of all Airbus aircraft on 31 routes to 29 destinations across 11 countries. According to ch-aviation, the current STARLUX fleet comprises 13 A321neos, five A330-900neos, and eight A350-900s. In addition to this latest order for the five A350Fs, the airline has 24 more Airbus aircraft on order which includes eight A350-1000s.

Omid Behzadpour / Shutterstock

Airbus data shows that by the end of November 2024, the A350F freighter family had achieved 1,345 orders from 61 customers worldwide. Customers include Air France, Air Lease Corporation, Cathay Pacific, CMA CGM, Etihad, Singapore Airlines, and Turkish Airlines.

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The aircraft concepts reimagining the future air cargo industry

Ian Molyneaux — Fri, 27 Dec 2024 04:02:00 +0000

New air freight and air cargo aircraft concepts are being driven by the need to find cheaper ways to move goods and a desire to use more eco-friendly ways to transport products from A to B in a world where e-commerce is booming.

Advanced by developments in the electric vehicle takeoff and landing (eVTOL) landscape and hydrogen powered engines, the air freight industry is on the cusp of a revolution that could reshape how companies move goods around the globe.

Congestion on roads and demand from customers are forcing businesses to look for other ways to deliver their products away from traditional land vehicles and trains in domestic markets while internationally there is a desire to deliver larger amounts of cargo and move past the limitations presented by freighters.

And developers offering new aircraft concepts and solutions are making extremely persuasive arguments about why their designs represent the future of air cargo transportation.

AeroTime takes a look at some of the companies looking to disrupt the market with their innovations.

Natilus

Based in San Diego, United States (US), Natilus has been reimagining the air freight industry since Aleksey Matyushev and Anatoly Star founded the company in 2016.

Natilus has developed three aircraft designs in the same mold, these include the 3.8 ton payload aircraft Kona, the 60-ton payload aircraft Alisio and Nordes, a 100-ton payload aircraft.

Each of the aerial vehicles are being developed to fly without a pilot and are unique in that the design uses a blended blended-wing body (BWB) design.

Natilus told AeroTime that “traditional tube-and-wing aircraft often reach their weight limit before maximizing cargo volume” and that this “limitation” has become even “more pronounced” with the rise of e-commerce.

The BWB design will enable 40% more cargo volume to be transported than on current freighters and across the three aircraft concepts there are cargo delivery solutions for regional, domestic and international markets.

The aircraft will be powered by ZeroAvia hydrogen-electric engines in a deal that was announced in May 2023, with lowering emissions a key part of Natilus’ vision for the future.

Natilus has obsessed over the aircraft design which it said will “significantly reduce” drag and reduce fuel consumption.

After testing the BWB design in a wind tunnel for three years, Natilus began flight tests of its quarter-scale Kona demonstrator aircraft in 2023. The full-size Kona will have a wingspan of 85 feet (26 meters).

The demonstrator was flown by a remote pilot, but Natilus’ overall aim is for the entire fleet to be autonomous with remote pilots based in ground stations monitoring the flights and positioned to take over control of an aircraft if necessary.

As of May 2023, Natilus has more than $6.8 billion in order commitments, and over 460 aircraft in pre-orders with clients including Ameriflight, Volatus Aerospace, Flexport, Astral, Aurora International, and Dymond.

With commitments for aircraft in place, Natilus is confident its “transformative approach to commercial aviation” will increase “capacity, cost efficiency, sustainability, and operational flexibility” for its customers.

“At Natilus, we envision a future where aviation is dramatically more efficient and more sustainable. Our innovative blended-wing-body aircraft are designed to revolutionize the commercial aviation landscape by maximizing capacity, reducing costs, and minimizing environmental impact,” said Jason Wallace, Head of Marketing and Communications at Natilus.

Pyka

The Californian startup Pyka unveiled its Pelican Cargo drone, the world’s largest zero-emission autonomous cargo Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), in 2023.

The project began in co-founder Michael Norcia’s parents’ garage before moving to the backyard when space to develop the aircraft became a little tight.

As well as the Pelican Cargo drone, which is being developed to transport 400-pound payloads up to 200 miles, the startup has already tasted success with its Pelican Spray aircraft which is used for crop protection.

The drone was first certified by the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority in 2019 and received authorization for commercial operation in the US by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 2023.

Initially there were no plans in place to develop a cargo aircraft but the idea of adapting the technology for this field began to evolve.

However, with stricter rules in place for aircraft flying over inhabited areas the journey to certification will undoubtedly pose more issues.

Pyka told AeroTime that one of the advantages of the Pelican is its “ability to operate in off-airport conditions with minimal ground infrastructure” potentially giving access to isolated areas around the world in need of medicines and supplies.

“Pelican Cargo will enhance express delivery networks, connect isolated regions of the globe, and enable fast and reliable delivery of critical supplies to areas in need,” a spokesperson for Pyka said.

As well as commercial markets, the Pelican is also seen as a game changer for defense logistics.

In January 2024, Pyka delivered the first in a fleet of three Pelican Cargo to AFWERX, the innovation arm of the US Air Force to explore operational use.

“As the only zero-emission cargo UAS in its class, Pelican Cargo offers a cleaner, more adaptable, and more cost-effective solution that can meet the rapidly evolving needs of the modern logistics market,” the Pyka spokesperson said.

Dronamics – Black Swan

Dronamics

Dronamics ambitiously set out to become the world’s first cargo drone airline after it was established in 2014 by brothers and co-founders Svilen and Konstantin Rangelov in Greece.

The Dronanics drone, Black Swan, has a 16-meter wingspan and was built to carry 770 pounds of freight up to 1,550 miles.

“We believe everyone should have access to same-day delivery. Our operating model is based around serving regional and extra-urban areas,” a spokesperson for the company told AeroTime.

Dronamics believes with the infrastructure and drones in place, companies will be able to deliver goods “up to 80% faster, 50% cheaper and with up to 60% lower emissions than alternative modes of transport, including Airfreight”.

The first phase of the firm’s launch will connect Greece, Italy, Portugal, and Spain followed by the United Kingdom (UK), France and Scandanavia in phase two.

The company is targeting companies in the fields of e-commerce, perishables, luxury goods, health care and medicine and humanitarian aid, among others.

“We believe the middle-mile in logistics is the one most ripe for change, where most bottlenecks and inefficiencies occur and where our solution can make a meaningful difference. We are also looking to establish point-to-point connections, especially for remote and underserved routes, therefore reducing the time and distance traveled by cargo,” the Dronamics spokesperson said.

While the drone is built to use biofuels, Dronamics plans to eventually move to hydrogen power solutions and has partnered with Cranfield Aerospace Solutions (CAeS) hydrogen fuel-cell propulsion system which is currently in development.

As well as developing Black Swan, Dronamics also plans to utilize a network of its own droneports with the aircraft remotely piloted.

Its flagship aircraft first took place in May 2023, in Bulgaria, remotely piloted by two commercial airline pilots from the Dronamics ground control station.

And on July 13, 2024, Dronamics announced that it had been officially assigned both IATA and ICAO designator codes in a first for a drone airline.

“Becoming the first cargo drone airline with both IATA and ICAO designator codes is a testament to Dronamics’ pioneering spirit and our vision for faster, cheaper and green air cargo for everyone, everywhere. This recognition by the leading aviation community reinforces our position on the international aviation map,” Svilen Rangelov said at the time.

And in May 2024, the European Innovation Council (EIC) invested a further $11 million in the company on top of $2.7 million in 2022.

Dronamics’ launch customers include Hellmann Worldwide Logistics (Germany), Hellenic Post (Greece), Emirates Post Group (UAE) and Aramex (UAE) and an interline agreement has been signed with Qatar Airways Cargo.

“Our solution is not a replacement for air freighters but rather, a complement for where they cannot reach due to infrastructure or where it doesn’t make sense economically,” the spokesperson said. “We will operate from smaller, local airports therefore establishing direct connections that currently don’t exist, benefiting remote and underserved routes.”

They added: “We want to be able to reach where others don’t, offering same day delivery to people and businesses everywhere, especially ones currently underserved by traditional networks. Drone technology has the potential to change that.”

Droneliner

UK-based Droneliner envisions a future where the world’s freight is transported from place to place on humongous, unmanned aircraft.

Droneliner’s two designs include the DL200, which could transport over 36 lightweight 20ft shipping containers and the larger DL350, which could fly over 80 containers.

To put this in context, the DL350 could carry between 300 and 350 tons, the equivalent of lifting around 30 London double-decker buses.

Droneliner argues that air freight is too expensive, and its aircraft could reduce the cost by 70% “whilst also reducing the delivery time and reducing emissions”.

The company also believes that shipping freight suffers badly from “clogged ports” and supply chains that are vulnerable to disruptions.

The DL200 would be electric powered while the DL350 would use two hybrid elective turbofan engines. However, both aircraft would move to hydrogen power when the technology matures.

Design Director for Droneliner, Mike Debens, previously described the new aircraft as “the most exciting new aeroplane since the jumbo jet”.

MightyFly

MightyFly has been developing its autonomous, eVTOL aircraft since 2019 with plans to create a delivery option that rivals the traditional truck and driver.

The aircraft, which takes off and lands vertically, has been built to transport up to 500 pounds of cargo up to speeds of 150 mph over a 600-mile range.

If the aircraft succeeds in its development, it will be used to make same day delivery accessible to businesses of any size that are looking to move goods from urban or rural areas.

While in flight the aircraft will be monitored from the MightyFly command center.

In March 2024, MightyFly announced that it had become the first large autonomous cargo eVTOL company to receive flight corridor approval from the FAA.

The FAA approval includes the Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) for a flight corridor of up to 5,000ft in altitude between the New Jerusalem and Byron Airports in California

On March 4, 2024, MightyFly started flying the 2024 Cento, its third-generation autonomous cargo aircraft, at the flight corridor’s origin airport.

“MightyFly’s mission is to provide fast, affordable, and low emissions-expedited deliveries to businesses and governments. MightyFly is a leading manufacturer and operator of autonomous, fixed-wing, hybrid, eVTOL cargo aircraft with a cargo capacity of 100 and 500 pounds, a range of 600 miles, and a speed of 150 mph,” the company said.

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Allied Air Boeing 737F runs off runway in Abuja, sustains substantial damage

Luke Peters — Thu, 12 Dec 2024 10:07:29 +0000

An Allied Air Cargo Boeing 737 freighter has sustained substantial damage after suffering from a runway excursion at Abuba Airport in Nigeria. The aircraft was completing an internal flight from Lagos from the incident occurred.

The aircraft involved was a Boeing 737-400 freighter registered as 5N-JRT. The aircraft had departed from Lagos Murtala Mohammed International Airport (LOS) on December 11, 2024, as flight 4W206 operating a domestic cargo flight to Abuja Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV).

According to the Aviation Herald, the aircraft, with five crew members onboard at the time, touched down on runway 22 at Abuja Airport at 10:05 local time. However, during its landing roll-out, the aircraft reportedly veered to the right of the runway and exited the paved surface, crossing a dried grassy area before coming to a halt with its nose wedged in a ditch. The five occupants were taken to a hospital but were later released with no reported injuries.

Disaster averted as an Allied Air Cargo aircraft skidded off the Runway at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

Five persons on board were safely evacuated with no reported injury and taken to the FAAN clinic for further checks.

The runway is being cleared and is… pic.twitter.com/7J3sUJpxNQ
— MayGist (@MayGistv) December 11, 2024

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) confirmed the incident in a statement issued by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Obiageli Orah. “At 10:05am on December 11, 2024, an Allied Air Cargo aircraft with registration number 5N-JRT skidded off Runway 22 at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja with five souls on board with no reported injury. They were all safely evacuated and taken to the FAAN clinic for further checks.”

“The Airport Emergency response team is on the scene along with accident investigators. The runway is being cleared and is expected to reopen for operations as soon as possible. We would like to thank the aviation community and the general public for their understanding and patience. We also request that all speculation be put on hold until the preliminary report is released by the Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB).”

The NSIB has confirmed that it has opened an investigation into the occurrence. Imageds from the scene posted online show the aircraft resting in a nose-down attitude with what appears to be the right main gear having sheared off during the landing roll, which would explain the reported veering to the right-hand side of the runway. Although the aircraft slid over the area of dried grass, there are no tracks in the surface from the right main gear, further evidencing the theory that the right main gear failed upon landing.

According to ch-aviation, the aircraft involved in this latest in a stream of incidents at Abuja Airport was 31.8 years old having first flown in February 1993. The aircraft was delivered new to Air Berlin (now defunct) before also flying for Pegasus Airlines (Turkey), Philippine Airlines, Ukraine International Airlines, and Nok Air (Thailand). It was converted to a cargo variant in 2023 and joined Allied Air Cargo in April 2014 for whom it has served since.

Allied Air Cargo

Allied Air Cargo is a Nigerian airline that operates a fleet of four Boeing 737 freighters (one Boeing 737-800F and three 737-400Fs) on regular scheduled freight flights between its base in Lagos and Abuja, Port Harcourt, Douala in Cameroun, Nairobi in Kenya, and Libreville in Gabon. Alongside its own services, the company operates flights on behalf of German logistics giant DHL (in whose livery at least one of the 737s is operated) and Allied Air Cargo serves the company’s Liege European hub twice a week.

Cally Air 737-300 veers off the runway while landing at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The aircraft became stuck and could not be moved from the runway for hours. pic.twitter.com/3xOMnGbk0d
— Breaking Aviation News & Videos (@aviationbrk) November 12, 2023

The incident comes just over a year after a Cally Air Boeing 737-300 veered of the same runway at Abuja Airport on November 12, 2023, in a remarkably similar incident to that which has befallen the Allied Air. In that case, the aircraft returned to service and it remains to be seen whether 5N-JRT will be repaired.

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Air Canada to lease two Boeing 767 freighters to Ethiopian Airlines

Luke Peters — Wed, 11 Dec 2024 14:59:16 +0000

Air Canada has leased two Boeing 767-300 freighters to Ethiopian Airlines Cargo, with the first already being prepared to join the African carrier. The two freighters, registered C-GHXI and C-GXHM, had been in storage at Kansas City International Airport (KCI) in Missouri since their withdrawal from service by the Canadian operator in April 2024. Both are factory-built 767-300F cargo variants rather than passenger-to-freighter conversions.

According to data obtained from Flightradar24, the first aircraft was ferried from Kansas City to Toronto on November 12, 2024, where it is being prepared for onward lease to Ethiopian. The second aircraft underwent a test flight on December 3, 2024, before ferrying up to Toronto to follow its sistership to East Africa.

According to FreightWaves, Ethiopian Airlines Cargo (the dedicated cargo division of Ethiopian Airlines), will operate the two additional aircraft alongside its existing freighter fleet. Currently, the airline deploys its all-cargo fleet comprising four Boeing 737-800Fs, three Boeing 767-300Fs, and 11 Boeing 777Fs on the carrier’s worldwide cargo network. The addition of the two Air Canada aircraft brings the operator’s total feet of dedicated freighters to 20 airplanes. This is in addition to the sizeable quantities of cargo carried in the belly holds of Ethiopian Airlines’ passenger fleet.

KITTIKUN YOKSAP / Shutterstock

Ethiopian Cargo operates one of the largest air cargo networks on the continent of Africa and provides a vital link that connects the continent with global markets across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

The two airplanes being leased by Ethiopian Airlines from Air Canada were originally acquired by the Montreal-based carrier in June 2022 to expand the carrier’s cargo-only operations following an upturn in the industry following the COVID-19 pandemic. However, following the cooling of the market, the pair were temporarily retired and flown to Kansas City in April 2024 with their immediate future uncertain. However, that future now seems more secure with the two freighters having found a new lease of life with Ethiopian Airlines Cargo in Addis Ababa.

The leasing out of these two aircraft comes as Air Canada reconsiders the future of its Boeing 767 fleet, both freighters and passenger variants. In November 2024, the carrier unveiled plans to reintroduce two of its retired Boeing 767-300ERs to passenger service starting in February 2025. These aircraft, registered as C-FOCA and C-GLCA, are both over 33 years old and have been in storage at Hamilton International Airport (YHM) in Canada. However, with the ongoing delivery delays of new Boeing 787s to the airline, the two planes have been pressed back into action.

Minh K Tran / Shutterstock

The carrier was once an extensive user of the popular Boeing widebody, having had over 40 examples of the 767 in its fleet at the peak. However, all aircraft had been retired from passenger flights by 2020 as the COVID-19 pandemic began to bite, rendering many airlines such as Air Canada with too much capacity and too few passengers.  

The redeployment of this pair of passenger 767s will see the aircraft used exclusively on scheduled passenger operations from Toronto-Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS), Calgary International Airport (YYC), Edmonton International Airport (YEG), Montego Bay-Sangster International Airport (MBJ), and Phoenix-Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). These Boeing 767s will operate in their original configurations of 24 lie-flat business class seats and 187 economy seats.

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Qatar Airways and Japan Airlines deepen partnership with cargo-focused MoU

Ian Molyneaux — Wed, 04 Dec 2024 14:34:23 +0000

Qatar Airways Cargo and Japan Airlines have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that will allow the two carriers to provide an enhanced product offering to their respective cargo customers.

Qatar Airways Cargo and Japan Airlines’ freighter division, JALCARGO, will look to streamline the transfer of cargo between the two carriers and optimize their networks to work more seamlessly.

The partnership is expected to generate significant added economic value by enhancing trade flows between the regions served by Japan Airlines and those served by Qatar Airways Cargo.

Over the past 12 months, both carriers have transacted 4,462 tons of import and export cargo in Japan, highlighting the substantial impact of their collaboration.

Speaking on December 4, 2024, Qatar Airways Cargo Chief Officer Cargo, Mark Drusch declared: “This MoU symbolises a commitment to a deeper partnership, aiming to integrate both networks via the hubs in Doha and Tokyo. This will enhance network connectivity and product offerings for customers, linking Japan to Qatar Airways’ extensive network in Europe, the Middle East, the Levant, and Africa, and vice versa. Customers will benefit from improved connectivity and access to a wider range of destinations.”

Earlier this year, after a 13-year hiatus, Japan Airlines re-introduced a dedicated cargo service using a Boeing 767-300ER freighter.

Japan Airlines Executive Officer, Senior Vice President and Head of Cargo & Mail, Yuichiro Kitof, said: “This agreement further strengthens the long-standing partnership between JAL and Qatar Airways Cargo. For the first time in 13 years, we have commenced the operation of our own freighters. Through this agreement, JALCARGO will leverage JAL’s passenger flights, freighter network, and the newly expanded Qatar Airways network to deliver customers’ cargo to an even broader range of destinations than ever before.”

The partnership will be further enhanced next year, when Qatar Airways Cargo will begin freighter services between its hub at Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Qatar and Japan Airlines hub at Tokyo-Narita International Airport (NRT).

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DHL Boeing 737 crash in Vilnius, Lithuania: What we know so far

Luke Peters — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 15:15:00 +0000

On the morning of November 25, 2024, a Boeing 737-400 freighter operated by Swiftair of Spain on behalf of global logistics giant DHL crashed on final approach into Vilnius Airport (VNO) in Lithuania, the aircraft’s intended destination.

The latest

Black boxes to be sent abroad

The so-called ‘black boxes’ from the crashed aircraft – the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and the Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) – will be sent on to another EU country for analysis.

On the morning of November 27, 2024, Vilmantas Vitkauskas, Vice Chancellor and head of the National Crisis Management Centre (NCMC), said that Lithuania lacks the facilities to analyze data from aircraft black boxes, meaning that they will be transferred to a laboratory in another EU country.

NTSB and FAA head to Lithuania to assist with investigation

A team of investigators from the United States (US) are travelling to Lithuania to assist authorities with their investigation of the DHL plane crash near Vilnius Airport (VNO).

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said on November 25, 2024, that its investigators will lead a team that includes experts from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Boeing to help establish why a Boeing 737-400 freighter operated by Swift Air of Spain for DHL crashed.

Analysis of the flight

Data from Flightrardar24 shows that flight BCS18D departed Leipzig at 03:08 local time for the one-hour and 20-minute flight to Vilnius. This was 32 minutes ahead of its scheduled departure time of 03:40. The flight was due to arrive in Vilnius at around 05:30 local time.

After departing Leipzig’s runway 26L, the aircraft headed north and then eastwards, climbing to 33,000ft (10,300m) and crossing the German/Polish border at 03:26, around 18 minutes after takeoff.

The flight proceeded east and passed into Lithuanian airspace at 05:11 local time. It then began its descent into Vilnius and passed to the north of the city on a right-hand downwind approach for its landing on runway 19 at Vilnius Airport.

Flightradar24

The flight turned right at 05:25, descending below 5,000ft, and established on its final approach to the airport. At this late stage, everything appeared normal, with the aircraft seemingly in the correct profile for landing on runway 19 and telling ATC it was established on the ILS (Instrument Landing System).

However, having descended to 650ft (200m) and traveling at around 150 knots, the flight data abruptly stops.

DHL B737-476(SF) cargo plane crash near Vilnius Airport (VNO), Lithuania shows no issues reported by the pilots before the terrain impact, according to Lithuanian officials.

The aircraft was carrying out flight QY5960 from Leipzig to Vilnius and the accident took place while… https://t.co/KKmGJjzwUR pic.twitter.com/Lw1suxfAtK
— FL360aero (@fl360aero) November 25, 2024

Video evidence seen by AeroTime shows the aircraft fully established for its landing, with little sign of any anomaly. It passes over the suburb of Liepkalnis Hill less than a mile from touchdown. It then appears to suddenly pitch violently nose-up before it disappears from view. Shortly after, a large post-impact fire becomes visible.

What we know so far

The official cause of this incident is currently under investigation. However, air traffic control (ATC) at Vilnius Airport had been in contact with the crew of BCS18D throughout its final approach.

While ATC had transmitted a landing clearance to the crew of BCS18D, no meaningful response was received, although some sounds were heard on the frequency consistent with an aircraft impacting the ground.  

According to a report by Lithuanian media outlet LRT, the Boeing 737 crashed close to residential buildings, resulting in a two-story building catching fire. A representative from the Vilnius Fire Protection and Rescue Department (PAGD) informed LRT Radio that at least four people were onboard, including two pilots and two passengers, and that one of the pilots had died as a result of injuries sustained.

Vilnius Mayor Valdas Benkunskas declared an emergency following the crash. He said: “We will urgently declare an emergency situation in the area to ensure the rapid liquidation of the consequences of the accident – cleaning up the territory and collecting harmful materials.”

Olivier Cabaret / Flickr

Investigation underway

Lithuania’s National Crisis Management Centre deployed experts to the site to investigate the accident soon after it happened. Given that the flight had seemingly passed uneventfully and was on schedule as it approached Vilnius Airport, authorities are examining exactly what happened onboard the plane during the final moments of its approach into Vilnius Airport.

The video below appears to give no clear sign of anything wrong with the aircraft itself, with no mechanical or technical defect seemingly evident. Poor weather conditions do not appear to be a factor. The 737 can be seen on short finals for runway 19 before some catastrophic event occurs just a few hundred meters from the runway threshold.

CCTV captured the crash of the Boeing 737-300SF on approach to Vilnius:pic.twitter.com/GG1j7HWeuk
— Aviation Safety Network (ASN) (@AviationSafety) November 25, 2024

A loss of control or pilot error could both be potential primary causes of the accident. The sudden nose-up attitude could indicate the onset of a stall, for example, a recovery from which at such a low altitude would be impossible. However, AeroTime understands that another line of inquiry is being investigated.

Sources claim that the aircraft had possibly descended below the glide path for runway 19 in its final moments and may have struck the ground (with the nose pitching up being the pilot’s attempt to avoid impacting the ground). This phenomenon is termed Controlled Flight Into Terrain (or CFIT) by the aviation industry.

Checks at the airport

Seeming to support this theory, on the day of the accident, the Lithuanian authorities brought in a Polish Air Navigation Services Agency Beech King Air 350 aircraft equipped with specialist calibration equipment onboard. This aircraft spent more than four hours testing the Instrument Landing System at Vilnius Airport, flying circuits around the airfield, and carrying out numerous approaches to runway 19.

Flightradar24

The aircraft (registered SP-TPU) continued to perform calibration checks on the morning of November 26, 2024, with the airfield closed to all traffic for an hour between 10:00 and 11:00.

AeroTime has also seen NOTAMS issued by the Lithuanian air navigation service provider Oro Navigacija, which states that the ILS for runway 19 is under test for “possible false readings” and should not be relied upon by pilots.

Following other lines of inquiry, in an update from the local police department, Darius Jauniškis, the Head of the State Security Department, stated after a meeting with Lithuania’s President that “the possibility of terrorism could not be rejected”.

The possibility of terrorism stems from reports published earlier in November 2024 that incendiary devices had been sent from Lithuania via DHL to other parts of the DHL network. These devices subsequently caused fires at DHL logistics centers located in Leipzig as well as Birmingham in the UK.

This will undoubtedly form a crucial part of the investigation, along with data from the aircraft’s black boxes. A copy of the Cockpit Voice Recorder data was published by the New York Times on November 27, 2024.

Officials have released chilling audio of Monday’s deadly crash of a DHL cargo planeinto a home in Lithuania — with the recording revealing the moment the air-traffic control tower realizes the ill-fated flight has been lost.

New York Post pic.twitter.com/vHqcrcqjAP
— TheRealCherokeeOwl (@RealCherokeeOwl) November 27, 2024

However, Lithuania’s Minister of National Defense Laurynas Kasčiūnas said he does not believe the incident was sabotage.

“So far, there are no signs or facts that this is a sabotage or a terrorist act if we are talking about external influence on the plane.” – Laurynas Kasčiūnas, Minister of National Defense, Lithuania

On the morning of November 26, 2024, the authorities told LRT that their investigation was continuing and that it could take some time before a definitive cause for the incident would be confirmed.

Details of the service

The flight involved was a routine DHL Express service from its European central logistics hub at Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) in Germany to the Lithuanian capital city of Vilnius. The service, operating with flight number BCS18D, operates four nights per week using Boeing 737-400 freighter aircraft.

The aircraft involved in the Vilnius incident was operated by Spanish all-cargo airline Swiftair under contract to DHL. The aircraft, registered EC-MFE, was 31.1 years old.

It was first delivered as a passenger plane to now-defunct carrier Australian Airlines in October 1993 and later operated by Qantas. The aircraft was converted into an all-cargo variant in 2014 and delivered to Swiftair in February 2015.

Adomas Daunoravicius / Shutterstock

In the week before the incident in Vilnius, the aircraft had operated multiple sectors and visited various European airports, including Cologne, Amsterdam, Dublin, Brussels, Bologna, Skopje, Athens, Barcelona, and Milan.

Onboard the incident flight were two pilots of Spanish origin, plus two DHL employees – one German citizen and one Lithuanian. It has been confirmed that one of the pilots lost their life as a result of the incident, while the three other survivors were taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Note: This is a developing story, and this article will be updated when the authorities in Lithuania make further relevant details public.

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Etihad Airways increases 2022 Airbus A350 freighter order to ten aircraft

Ian Molyneaux — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 09:32:23 +0000

Etihad Airways has increased its order for seven A350Fs, as finalized in 2022, by an additional three of the freighters, having exercised options negotiated into the contract.

During an interview, Stanislas Brun, the Vice President of Etihad Cargo, told FreightWaves that the airline had extended its commitment in response to the surge in e-commerce.

Etihad currently operates five Boeing 777 freighters. At the International Air Cargo Association trade show, Brun said: “In the next five years, we should go from five to 15 freighter aircraft.”

According to Brun, Etihad gave the additional purchase the go-ahead earlier this month and the final terms and delivery timelines are now being finalized with the European planemaker.

Etihad firmed up its order with Airbus for seven new generation A350F freighters in August 2022, following an earlier commitment that was announced at the Singapore Airshow.

At the time, Tony Douglas, Etihad CEO, said: “In building one of the world’s youngest and most sustainable fleets, we are delighted to extend our long-term partnership with Airbus to add the A350 Freighter to our fleet. This additional cargo capacity will support the unprecedented growth we are experiencing in the Etihad Cargo division.”

The Airbus A350F is still in the development phase, but it is scheduled to enter service around 2026/2027.

Airbus has received orders for 58 A350Fs so far, from customers including Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines and Air France.

According to S&P Global, industry estimates suggest “e-commerce accounts for 20% of global air freight volume, with the volume exported from China alone enough to fill 50 to 80 freighter aircraft every day”.

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Boeing 737-400F destroyed after inflight fire and emergency landing in Brazil

Luke Peters — Mon, 11 Nov 2024 14:01:28 +0000

A Boeing 737-400F has been destroyed after it caught fire in flight and was forced to make an emergency landing in Sao Paulo. The aircraft, operated by all-cargo airline Total Linhas Aereas was operating a domestic cargo flight from Vitoria to Sao Paulo when the crew received a cargo fire warning, forcing the emergency landing.

Flight number TTL5682 departed from Vitória–Eurico de Aguiar Salles International Airport (VIX) on November 8, 2024, for a routine cargo flight to Sao Paulo’s Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), a sector length of just 453 miles (725 km). The flight was being operated by a 30.6-year-old Boeing 737-400(SF) freighter registered as PS-TLB.

According to Aviation Herald, the aircraft’s journey had been uneventful until it was on its descent towards Guarulhos Airport when the crew reported a fire in the cargo hold and declared an emergency. The aircraft was directed towards runway 28L at Guarulhos for a priority landing. However, about five minutes before landing, radio contact was lost with the pilots, although the transponder continued to work normally which transmitted the aircraft’s height and position information to the air traffic controllers at Guarulhos Airport.

Total Linhas Aereas 737-400 freighter destroyed by a cargo hold fire after making an emergency landing at Sao Paulo Guarulhos International Airport in Brazil. pic.twitter.com/zFHP54kbY7
— Boar News (@PhamDuyHien9) November 9, 2024

Despite the fire in the hold, the crew managed a safe landing on runway 28L and stopped on the runway. Meanwhile, air traffic controllers reported seeing fire emanating from the aircraft, resulting in the crew evacuating the aircraft via ropes from the cockpit windows. Airport emergency services responded and attended the scene to extinguish the fire, which had by this time engulfed much of the aircraft’s roof structure.

According to reports, the aircraft was eventually removed from the runway at around 08:00 on the morning of November 9, 2024. This action occurred once all the remaining cargo had been removed from the aircraft. Pictures posted on social media show that the aircraft received substantial damage to much of its fuselage and is likely to be written off as uneconomic to repair by its insurers.

A cargo fire destroyed the Total Linhas Aéreas Boeing 737-4Q8 (SF) aircraft (PS-TLB, Built 1994) at Sao Paulo after the emergency landing earlier today.

This aircraft had joined the fleet of Total Linhas Aéreas in June 2024, leased from Hamden Aviation.

Courtesy: Eric Breno… pic.twitter.com/4s6UhtOGBH
— FL360aero (@fl360aero) November 9, 2024

According to data from ch-aviation, the aircraft involved in the incident first flew in April 1994 and was delivered to Turkish Airlines as TC-JEK as a passenger variant of the 737-400. Having then flown for Asiana and Enter Air, the plane was converted into a freighter in 2017/18 and re-entered service with ASL Airlines Ireland in March 2018 as EI-STP. The aircraft was acquired by lessor Hamden Aviation in May 2024 and was immediately leased to Total Linhas Areas for freighter operations in Brazil.

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US ultimate target for Russian incendiary devices hidden on jets, say officials

Ian Molyneaux — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 12:23:17 +0000

Fires at cargo warehouses in Birmingham, United Kingdom, and Leipzig, Germany, caused by incendiary devices hidden in packages may have been part of a larger plan to target aircraft bound for the United States (US) and Canada.

Russia is suspected of being involved in the plot to smuggle incendiary devices from Lithuania into the UK and Germany with the plan to target North America further in the future.

The fires in Birmingham and Germany both broke out in July 2024, while stored in warehouses and had previously been transported on DHL cargo planes, according to the Wall Street Journal.

It is understood that the package in Leipzig was also destined for the UK with both parcels due to be delivered to Birmingham addresses.

“The group’s goal was also to test the transfer channel for such parcels, which were ultimately to be sent to the United States of America and Canada,” Poland’s National Prosecutor’s Office said after arresting four suspects linked to the fires.

Pawel Szota, head of Poland’s spy agency, said he was not sure Russian leaders were “aware of the consequences if one of these packages exploded, causing a mass casualty event”.

The Wall Street Journal also reported that the devices were planted in electric massagers along with a magnesium-based flammable substance.

“These are traditional unsubstantiated insinuations from the media,” said Russian spokesperson Dmitry Peskov in response to the accusations.

Efforts to discover the circumstances behind the fires are a multi-national intelligence operation with spy agencies across Europe involved.

A senior official in the US told the Washington Post that there are “no current active threats involving U.S.-bound flights”.

The consequences of such devices going off midflight are not clear but Thomas Haldenwang, head of the Germany’s domestic intelligence agency, suggested that they could have caused a crash.

European security services are working towards locating two more suspects allegedly involved with the smuggling operation.

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China rolls out W5000 prototype – the world’s largest cargo-carrying drone

Luke Peters — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 13:58:57 +0000

Chinese aerospace firm Air White Whale has announced the roll-out of its first fully assembled W5000 unmanned cargo aircraft. Once certified, the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) will become the world’s largest aircraft in this category, with first deliveries due to begin in 2026. The world’s first large cargo drone made its maiden flight in China in 2017.

Founded in 2021, Air White Whale is backed by the Changzhou-based Jinlong investment firm. Its management board is made up of former executives from Comac (the Chinese commercial aircraft manufacturer), Airbus China, and GE Aviation. At the unveiling ceremony, Hu Zhendong, the Chairman and CEO of Air White Whale, expressed his confidence in the future of large cargo drones, stating that such aircraft are destined to become a cornerstone of the airfreight transportation industry

The first W5000 UAV rolled off the company’s production line in the eastern Chinese city of Changzhou on 18 October 2024. The aircraft offers a maximum payload of five tonnes (11,023 lbs) and a maximum take-off weight of 10.8 tonnes (23,809 lbs). The UAV offers a maximum range of 1,615 miles (2,600 km) and can travel at a cruising speed of 284kts (526 kmh). The company has already submitted certification documents to the Chinese regulators and it is planning for the type to enter into commercial service during the second half of 2026.

Chinese aviation startup Air White Whale has unveiled its first unmanned cargo aircraft, which the company says is the world's largest transportation drone.

The W5000 is a twin-turboprop drone with a payload capacity of 5 tons and an inner cargo space of more than 65 cubic… pic.twitter.com/GH8TKwVSU8
— China Focus (@China__Focus) October 22, 2024

The W5000, named after its maximum payload in kilograms, features a standard fuselage with a single high-mounted wing and a single vertical stabilizer. The aircraft is powered by a pair of turboprop engines, which local media have reported to be AEP-100 engines produced by the state-owned company Aero Engine Corporation of China.

• Wingspan: 22.7 meters (74 feet)
• Length: 22.9 meters (75 feet)
• Cruising Speed: 326.8 mph (526 km/h)
• Range: Up to 1,615 miles (2,600 km)
• Maximum altitude: 6,000 meters (19,685 ft)
• Maximum take-off weight: 10.8 metric tonnes (23,809 lbs)
• Maximum load: 5 tonnes 911.023 lbs)
• Cargo hold: 65-cubic-meter (2,295-cubic-foot)
• Landing gear: Retractable
• Compatibility: Compatible with standard general aviation and commercial airports

The W5000 is being seen by the manufacturer as a unique solution to the growing need for freight-only aircraft, particularly in the Chinese domestic market. With its spacious interior cargo space of over 65 cubic meters, the W5000 is viewed as a potential game-changer that could revolutionize the logistics industry by offering efficient and cost-effective transportation solutions. According to Air White Whale, the W5000 “is compatible with standard cargo pallets, adapts to various loading and unloading methods, and can take off and land at general aviation airports and civil aviation airports”.

Additionally, the W5000 offers major advantages over conventional cargo aircraft due to its unmanned capability which reduces operating costs substantially. According to the manufacturer, a single ground-based pilot can operate up to five W5000 aircraft at any one time.

Air White Whale

While the company will not be drawn on revealing how many W5000s have been ordered or by whom, the rollout ceremony held on October 18, 2024, is understood to have been attended by several senior executives from China Post and China Eastern Airlines, as well as various other Chinese logistics and air freight companies.

Analysts say that, as the aviation landscape continues to evolve over the coming years, the W5000 could potentially represent a major step forward in the logistics arena of global commerce. It’sexpected that the W5000 will be showcased at the upcoming China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai, where Air White Whale intends to demonstrate the UAV’s regional capabilities across Southeast and Central Asia, Russia and Japan.

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SuperNova Airlines secures transport license, but Ukraine’s skies remain closed

Clement Charpentreau — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 08:32:18 +0000

SuperNova Airlines, a subsidiary of the Ukrainian postal and courier company Nova Poshta, has received a license to conduct regular international air cargo transportation on Lviv-Prague and Kyiv-Prague routes.

However, Timur Tkachenko, Deputy Minister of Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine, stressed that this commercial permit for cargo transport should not be misconstrued as an authorization for flights.

“Some channels understood this news in their own way and began to announce the ‘partial opening of the sky’,” Tkachenko said in a Telegram post. “Currently, we all understand that the security situation does not allow civil aviation flights. Unfortunately, the sky over Ukraine is still closed.”

Ukraine closed its airspace for civil aviation on February 24, 2022, following Russia’s invasion of the country. Since then, Ukrainian skies have remained unsafe for civilian aviation due to the ongoing conflict. As such, the airline is restricted to operating flights to and from the European Union, bypassing Ukrainian airspace entirely for now.

Once the conflict ends, the airline plans to expand its operations to include flights from major Ukrainian airports such as Boryspil and Lviv. Until then, SuperNova will continue to serve European routes, with hopes for future expansion once the skies over Ukraine reopen.

SuperNova Airlines was founded in 2021 and received its airline operator’s certificate in January 2023. The carrier recently added the first Boeing 737-800SF to its fleet, which was introduced into its operational specifications on September 27, 2024. Currently at Siauliai International Airport (SQQ) in Lithuania, the aircraft is set to begin service later this year, strengthening the company’s cargo transport capabilities.

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Emirates poised to add more Boeing 777F freighters despite 777X frustrations

Luke Peters — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 12:50:53 +0000

Dubai-based Emirates is poised to expand its fleet of dedicated Boeing 777F freighters with a formal announcement expected “within weeks” according to sources close to the airline. The carrier, along with its Emirates SkyCargo freight division, is enjoying an upsurge in demand for its current capacity and is planning for further growth in the coming years.

The possibility that Emirates would be ordering additional freighters was first reported by Reuters on October 16, 2024. Sources close to the matter said that the airline was partly behind an order for 11 new Boeing 777Fs for undisclosed customers included in Boeing’s orders and deliveries report for September 2024, as reported by AeroTime. Boeing has so far refused to identify the customer or customers for these new freighters at the time of writing.

Emirates already operates 12 Boeing 777F cargo aircraft as part of its SkyCargo operation with an average age of eight years. These are currently supplemented using four Boeing 747-400 freighters that the carrier wet leases from other operators.

Vytautas Kielaitis / Shutterstock

Emirates is currently the largest operator of the Boeing 777 family of aircraft with 124 passenger variants in service (plus the 12 freighters). It is also the launch customer for Boeing’s 777X, the next-generation widebody that is currently under development but is yet to be certified. Earlier in October 2024, the planemaker announced that due to well-publicized ongoing challenges, certification of the type was being pushed back to 2026.

Emirates Airline President Tim Clark has already been vocal in declaring his frustration at the further delay to the program upon which the carrier has based a significant degree of its future long-haul flying program around. But with few other options on the table at present, Emirates has little choice but to sit and wait for the new planes to arrive.

As passenger airlines have bounced back since the pandemic, significantly more air cargo is being carried within the underfloor space of passenger aircraft. Some cargo-only airlines have suffered because of this, while others (particularly those that are affiliated with passenger airlines such as Emirates SkyCargo, Qatar Cargo, and Etihad Cargo) have all been seeing demand for their freight-only services rise.

Increasing the global availability of cargo-only aircraft is being hampered by the lack of available new airframes and will be for several years as manufacturers struggle to keep up with demand. This is leading carriers such as Emirates to use leased-in equipment, with ACMI (Air, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance) contracts becoming ever more prevalent in the air freight industry.

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Ukrainian cargo airline launched during War acquires Boeing 737-800 conversion

Ian Molyneaux — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 09:27:33 +0000

A Ukrainian cargo airline launched during the Russian invasion has taken delivery of its first ever Boeing 737-800 conversion.

SuperNova Airlines, a subsidiary of the private Ukrainian postal and courier company Nova Poshta, was founded in 2021, but didn’t earn its airline operator’s certificate until January 2023.

“We are the first Ukrainian carrier that was able to fulfill all the requirements and received the Operator’s Certificate in wartime conditions. This is an example of the indomitability of Ukrainians and a reminder to other businesses that right now is the best time to invest in Ukraine,” Yaroslav Krasnozhon, CEO of Supernova Airlines, said in January 2023.

The newly arrived Boeing 737-800BDSF (BeDek Special Freighter) was delivered by lessor World Star Aviation following its conversion by BeDek, a subsidiary of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).

According to a spokesperson for SuperNova, the airline completed the process of introducing the Boeing 737-800SF to its “Operation Specifications” on September 27, 2024, and the aircraft will enter service later this year.

The SuperNova spokesperson said: “While the procedure for obtaining permits for flights in European countries and the USA is ongoing, we are ready to perform charter flights outside the EU – where a Ukrainian operator’s certificate is sufficient for commercial flights.”

It is understood that the Boeing 737-800, registered UR-NPA, was leased to SuperNova in August 2024 and performed a technical flight from Guangzhou in China to Vilnius in Lithuania prior to its delivery.

Commenting on the Boeing freighter’s arrival the SuperNova CEO said: “Finally, we have the possibility of commercial operation of our Boeing 737-800SF aircraft, so far outside the airspace of the EU, but we will soon receive this permission as well. It is noteworthy that our radio-telephone call sign is Nova. I would like to hear it on the air more often, and the team is making every effort for this.”

Krasnozhon added: “I am grateful to the team for their titanic work. Without them, none of this would have been possible. We are glad that we can take part in the development of the Ukrainian aviation business.”

SuperNova’s first flight was on an ATR 72-500F (registered YL-RAK), owned by Latvian carrier RAF-Avia, in May 2023, from Riga International Airport (RIX) to Poland, where seven tons of parcels were loaded onto trucks and driven into Ukraine.

The Ukrainian carrier’s Boeing 737-800BDSF is currently located at Vilnius International Airport (VNO) after arriving from Aeropuerto Internacional de Siauliai (SQQ) on September 18, 2024.

A spokesperson for World Star Aviation said: “This delivery is a fundamental pillar for the airline’s ramp-up programme, further contributing to connecting Ukraine to the World. The aircraft is expected to begin commercial operations very soon, and we at World Star Aviation look forward to seeing this beautiful livery crossing the skies. We are thrilled about the journey ahead with SuperNova Airlines.”

Supernova currently only operates flights to and from the European Union (EU) due to Ukrainian airspace being closed.

Once the war is over, the airline plans to operate flights from Ukrainian international airports at Boryspil and Lviv.

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SmartLynx A321F makes the carrier’s first visit to Navoi Airport in Uzbekistan

Luke Peters — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 14:36:56 +0000

SmartLynx Airlines, the European ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance) operator has paid its first visit to Navoi International Airport (NVI) in Uzbekistan. The carrier, part of the global Avia Solutions Group of companies, made the historic visit on September 17, 2024, using one of its fleet of Airbus A321P2F freighter aircraft.

Navoi International Airport is a modern airport located in the mountainous Navoi region of Uzbekistan. As one of the country’s major international airports, the facility plays an important role in connecting Uzbekistan to the rest of the world. With its strategic location, Navoi International Airport serves as a vital regional land international hub for both passenger and cargo flights.

SmartLynx

The plane’s visit was a planned technical stop as part of the aircraft’s routing from Dhaka Airport (DAC) in Bangladesh to Lodz Airport (LCJ) in Poland, with an additional stop made in Varna, Bulgaria. As part of the stopover, the aircraft was refueled and the crew was changed to comply with international air crew duty hours regulations.

Upon arrival at Navoi Airport, the SmartLynx A321F received a welcome from the airport authorities complete with a traditional water salute. The crew was greeted by the airport management who were treated to live music performed by a local traditional band, which “added a festive and cultural touch to their welcome,” according to a SmartLynx statement.

SmartLynx

“It was an unexpected and warm reception by the airport authorities,” explained Captain Carlos Marcelo Cardenas Becerra of SmartLynx. “The first flight through the mountainous area of the Hindu Kush was impressive. It was an honor and a privilege to have been in command of the first flight over such a rugged and challenging region.”

“The day was partly cloudy, but among the clouds, you could perfectly appreciate the closeness of the mountains and the imposing landscape. There was tremendous planning and preparation behind the realization and opening of this route. I appreciate the great effort made by the SmartLynx team, as it allows the crews to fly with the tranquillity and confidence required in these situations,” Captain Becerra added.

SmartLynx

SmartLynx Cargo plans to make several more visits through Navoi Airport while operating the current series of flights between Dakar and Lodz. The carrier operates three Airbus A321 freighters under wet-lease agreements with other airline operators and freight forwarding companies.

Apart from SmartLynx Airlines, Avia Solutions Group owns several other airlines, including, Avion Express, Ascend Airways, AirExplore, KlasJet, BBN Indonesia Airlines, Skytrans, and Magma Aviation. In total, ASG holds nine Air Operator’s Certificates (AOCs) in Europe, Indonesia, Thailand, and Australia. The Group operates a fleet of 214 aircraft.

Beyond airline operations, ASG also offers a wide range of aviation services, including Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO), pilot and crew recruitment and training, ground handling, and other associated services.

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DHL Boeing 767 freighter twice returns to Amsterdam with flap issue

Luke Peters — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 13:45:26 +0000

A DHL Air Boeing 767-300ER freighter was forced to return to Amsterdam not once but twice after suffering flap retraction issues after take-off from the Dutch airport. The incidents, which occurred on September 18, 2024, are now the subject of an investigation as to how the same issue caused the flight to return twice on the same day.

On the day in question, DHL Air (Austria) Boeing 767-300ER freighter was operating a routine cargo flight from Amsterdam-Schiphol Airport to London-Luton Airport as flight QY6700. The plane took off from runway 36L at Schiphol at 14:42 local time. However, just six minutes later having reached an altitude of 6,000ft (1,830m), the crew leveled the aircraft off and requested an immediate return to the airport.

Having received clearance to do so, the plane turned south and began its descent back towards Schiphol. The flight landed safely on runway 06 at 15:02, just twenty minutes after take-off, and returned to its stand on the cargo apron.

Flightradar24

The aircraft was then attended to by engineers who, after around two hours, declared the problem fixed and the aircraft fit to fly once more.

As before, the airplane taxied out to the end of runway 36L and began its second take-off run of the afternoon, becoming airborne at 18:02. However, once again, having headed west towards London-Luton, the crew stopped the climb just four minutes after take-off with the plane just having reached 6,000ft. The crew again elected to return to Schiphol and advised air traffic controllers at the airport of a possible high-speed landing due to the flaps not being able to extend.

Flightradar24

The aircraft landed safely on runway 06 at about 170 knots around 15 minutes after departure. Once again, the aircraft returned to the apron where engineers awaited its return once again. The aircraft remained on the ground for about 27 hours before returning to service on September 19, 2024, on the short hop to the company’s European hub in Leipzig, Germany. The aircraft has since successfully completed missions to Helsinki and Bologna without further incident.

The aircraft involved in both incidents was a Boeing 767-300ER converted freighter registered OE-LYA. The aircraft was first delivered in May 2000 to Air Europa of Spain. It subsequently had passenger-carrying careers with Zoom Airlines (UK) and Royal Air Maroc before being converted to a freighter variant in 2019. It then began life as a cargo plane, firstly with Kalitta Air before joining the DHL fleet in May 2022.

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K-Mile Asia to operate Thailand’s first Boeing 767-300BCF from October 2024

Ian Molyneaux — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 03:02:00 +0000

The cargo airline K-Mile Asia will begin operating Thailand’s first 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighter after welcoming the new jet at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK).

The Boeing 767-300BCF is also the first time that K-Mile Asia has flown a widebody freighter with the cargo airline currently relying on a fleet of five Boeing 737Fs.

The new aircraft, registered HS-KSA, joins K-Mile Asia as it celebrates its 20th anniversary. The airline was established in 2004 and began scheduled and charter cargo flights in 2006.

HS-KSA arrived in Bangkok on September 6, 2024, sporting its new livery and will begin flying duties in October 2024, connecting Thailand with Southeast Asia, China and India.

“We are delighted to welcome our first and Thailand’s first B767-300BCF aircraft. This milestone is a positive statement in the future of K-Mile as we continue to strengthen and grow. Our new aircraft enhances our capabilities and reflects our commitment to our customers by providing quality and reliable services across our cargo network,” Pansith Sasunee, Managing Director of K-Mile, said.

Owned by ASL Aviation, K-Mile Asia positions itself as an express cargo airline capable of moving both small and large cargo quickly up to 3,300 nautical miles.

The Boeing 767-300BCF is aimed at airlines operating in the general and express cargo markets. The aircraft stretches over 50 meters and is capable of carrying payloads of up to 51.7 tons.

ASL Aviation is the largest operator of 737 freighters globally and specializes in express freight on behalf of global customers including DHL, FedEx, UPS and Amazon.

ASL also runs similar airlines in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Belgium, France and Austria, allowing the company to serve over 150 airports worldwide in total.

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Atlas Air secures three Boeing 747-8 Freighters in response to e-commerce boom

Ian Molyneaux — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 09:03:16 +0000

US cargo airline Atlas Air has secured the services of three Boeing 747-8 Freighters through a long-term finance lease agreement with lessor BOC Aviation.

On August 22, 2024, Atlas Air Worldwide declared that the agreement came in response to “strong global demand for dedicated large widebody airfreight capacity,” driven by a surge in the e-commerce sector.

The three Boeing 747 Freighters are expected to enter service next month, adding to a fleet that already includes 17 747-8Fs, 39 747-400Fs, five passenger 747-400s, and four Large Cargo Freighters (LCFs).

“Atlas is the world’s largest operator of 747 freighters, and we are thrilled to expand our widebody fleet with these three 747-8Fs, following the four 747-400Fs we acquired and placed with customers under long-term agreements earlier this year,” Michael Steen, Atlas Air Worldwide CEO, said. “Our growth in this aircraft type underscores Atlas’ commitment to the 747-freighter platform and the value it provides our customers, including significant payload capacity and unique nose-loading capability.”

The 747-8F is a purpose-built freighter rather than a reconfigured passenger jet. It is instantly recognizable at airports worldwide by its distinctive nose that opens and closes for easy loading.

Steen added: “Demand remains strong for dedicated large widebody freighters, and with our robust pipeline, we will place these planes with customers under attractive long-term agreements. Through our ongoing investments in innovation and our fleet, we continue to create additional operational flexibility, providing world-class service and acting as a trusted partner to our customers.”

In January 2024, Atlas Air Worldwide announced that it had taken delivery of a fourth Boeing 777 Freighter, which the airline will operate on behalf of its customer MSC Mediterranean Shipping Company.

“Atlas manages the world’s largest fleet of Boeing 747 freighter aircraft and is ideally placed to partner with us in the operation of these latest generation aircraft,” Steven Townend, CEO and Managing Director at BOC Aviation, said. “As global airfreight volumes hit record highs this transaction highlights our ability to provide capacity solutions to a wide variety of airline customers.”

In July 2024, BOC Aviation announced an agreement with Air Canada to deliver eight brand-new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

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Is Saudi Arabia launching a new cargo airline? Here’s what we know so far

Miquel Ros — Thu, 22 Aug 2024 08:18:35 +0000

Saudi Arabia may be considering the launch of a new cargo-only airline, according to a Bloomberg report published on August 20, 2024, quoting unnamed sources with knowledge of this project.

Little else is currently known about the initiative, which is reportedly being evaluated by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the Kingdom’s sovereign wealth fund.

According to the report, PIF is in talks with Airbus and Boeing to secure freighter aircraft for this hypothetical new venture.

The new cargo operator would provide services to the two airlines already owned by PIF, existing national carrier Saudia and soon-to-be-launched Riyadh Air.

By investing in air cargo capacity, Saudi authorities are replicating, in the logistics sector, the strategy they are already pursuing of positioning the country as a major node in the global air travel market, in direct competition with neighboring hubs in the Gulf region.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 program aims to invest up to US$100 billion in a broad range of aviation and transportation projects, including new airport infrastructure, new airlines and an ambitious plan to pioneer the roll out of advanced air mobility networks in the country.

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New Thai cargo airline Pattaya Airways receives its air operator certificate

Ian Molyneaux — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 03:00:00 +0000

Pattaya Airways, a new cargo airline based in Thailand, is celebrating news that it has received its air operator certificate (AOC) from the country’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Pattaya Airways said that after nine months of “relentless effort and dedication” had finally led to the “significant achievement” of securing its AOC.

Pattaya Airways, a subsidiary of Pattaya Group, intends to launch cargo services later this year with two ATR 72-500 freighters that it acquired earlier this year.

“Today, we proudly step forward to receive the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand, a testament to our unwavering capability and high standards in aviation,” the airline said in a statement.

Pattaya Airways added: “Thank you to everyone who has been part of our journey—this success is yours too! As we receive this prestigious certification, we are more equipped than ever to elevate your experience in the skies of Thailand.”

It is understood that Pattaya Airways will offer cargo services in Thailand and on international routes within Asia with a fleet of five aircraft.

Pattaya Airways also recently announced it had signed an air cargo transportation partnership agreement with ACE Global Logistics.

Pattaya Airways said that the deal will enhance the efficiency of its air cargo systems.

“The partnership will leverage the resources and expertise of both parties to provide high-quality cargo services that effectively meet the needs of customers in the ASEAN region. Additionally, this collaboration will expand the business networks of both companies, positioning them for broader opportunities in the future,” Pattaya Airways said.

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Meet WindRunner: The airplane set to become the largest aircraft ever built

Luke Peters — Sat, 10 Aug 2024 03:00:00 +0000

In an age where the transition to renewable energy sources is becoming increasingly urgent, one company specializing in this field is taking matters to a whole new level. Radia plans to transport the world’s largest onshore wind turbines to remote, hard-to-reach locations using the largest aircraft ever conceived by humankind.

Their unique aircraft project, called WindRunner, will become the largest and heaviest flying machine ever built when fully certified. Boasting colossal dimensions and designed to carry the world’s largest payloads, WindRunner is set to break existing aviation records for scale by some margin and will set a new benchmark in airborne cargo transportation.

About Radia

Radia is based in Boulder, Colorado, and was set up in 2016 by CEO Mark Lundstrom, an entrepreneur and Massachusettes Institute of Technology-taught aerospace engineer whose niche is co-founding companies that bring aerospace techniques, technologies, and innovations to new sectors, including biotech, telecommunications, and materials science.

Led by a team of experts in aerospace engineering and other key disciplines, Radia’s primary objective is to assist the world in meeting critical decarbonization targets, and the company considers onshore wind energy as a significant and increasingly large part of the energy mix. Wind-driven sustainable energy is forecast to contribute between 20 to 41% of total energy production by 2050 according to Bloomberg NEF and the International Energy Agency (IEA).

However, given that the most efficient wind turbines (those that produce the most power and drive down costs) are the largest, there lies the problem. The largest turbines, and their blades in particular, are so huge that they are difficult to transport, deliver, and deploy to the often remote locations in which they are to be located. While doubling the length of a turbine blade roughly quadruples its power output, their sheer size largely restricts them to offshore use – for the time being at least.

Radia

This is where Radia comes in. The firm has designed and plans to build a unique aerial transportation solution specifically engineered to deliver the largest wind turbine blades and components directly to wind farm sites. This will include transporting them to difficult-to-access locations and even low-wind locations where large blades are needed to generate power more cost-effectively. This solution is the WindRunner aircraft, which will have the ability to transport even the largest turbines and blades to the deployment sites.

Simultaneously, Radia is developing a world-class portfolio of wind energy projects to leverage this solution and is partnering with the world’s largest energy and industrial companies to support their energy transition plans.

According to Radia, the result will be “a radical expansion of the scope and scale of the onshore wind energy industry, an expanded role for onshore wind in the renewable energy mix, more clean electrons and green molecules at low cost, and significant progress on the path to decarbonization.”

Radia

While Radia does not manufacture wind turbines itself, it will partner with wind turbine manufacturers to deliver their products of today and tomorrow to the deployment sites. Radia refers to this collaboration project as ‘GigaWind’, which will partner with farm developers to build new sites where the largest turbines will be more efficient and effective.

Radia has so far received nearly $100 million in funding from external investors including LS Power, Good Growth Capital, Capital Factory, Caruso Ventures, and ConocoPhillips.

Introducing WindRunner

Radia’s WindRunner has been designed as a large outsize cargo transport aircraft with dimensions specifically tailored to transport wind turbine blades. The aircraft is due to enter service with Radia by the end of the decade and will be operated by just two pilots plus a supporting ground crew.

The aircraft configuration sees a monocoque fuselage with a raised flight deck above the nose-to-tail cargo compartment below. The four engines are mounted on pylons under a high wing placed over the central section of the fuselage, with eye-catching ‘drooped’ wingtips. The tail is attached to the rear of the empennage and is of a twin-tail design, with a vertical stabilizer attached at each end of the single horizontal stabilizer.

Radia

Turbine blades will be loaded and unloaded through WindRunner’s nose cargo door which hinges upwards forward of her flight deck section, similar to the Boeing 747 freighter. This crucial design aspect reduces loading/unloading times and “ensures proper placement of cargo”, according to Radia.

WindRunner has been designed to operate from regional hubs located close to turbine blade manufacturers, with the range ability to deliver the turbine components to the sites where they are needed, including remote and hard-to-access sites where the aircraft can operate from unprepared and semi-prepared temporary and permanent landing strips. According to Radia, by doing so, WindRunner will open up three times the amount of global land area currently available for large wind turbine installations.

Radia

Despite its size, the aircraft will use runways of just around 6,000ft (1,800m), far shorter than any other commercial outsize cargo aircraft in service. The aircraft will be able to fly mission lengths of up to 1,200 miles (2,000km) and will cruise at a maximum altitude of 41,000ft (12,500m) at a cruise speed of around Mach 0.6.

WindRunner dimensions

With its colossal fuselage length of 356ft (108m) and a payload volume of 272,000 cubic feet (8,200 cubic meters), once certified, the WindRunner will become the largest aircraft ever built, surpassing anything that has gone before.

The aircraft’s height will measure 79ft (24m) while its wingspan will be 261ft (80m). In terms of payload, the aircraft can carry cargoes up to 344ft (105m) in length, 24ft (7.3m) in height, and 24ft (7.3m) in width. The maximum payload weight will be 160,000 lbs (72.575kg).

Radia

The size of current turbine blades often restricts the sites to which they can be transported, as they are generally transported by a multi-modal combination of road and rail solutions. However, WindRunner has been designed to overcome this issue, by using air transportation as the medium to carry the turbine blades to deployment sites.

With the largest modern-day turbine blades measuring around 230 ft (70 m), these blades can be easily accommodated in WindRunner’s cavernous hold.

Comparisons

Given its colossal dimensions and cargo-lifting capabilities, Radia’s WindRunner will cast a shadow over the world’s largest current commercial freighter aircraft, including the Boeing 747-400F, the Ukrainian-built Antonov An-124 four-engined airlifter, and the Airbus Beluga XL freighter.

Incredibly, its capacity also far exceeds that of the Antonov-An 225 ‘Mriya’ outsize cargo plane – the single flyable example of which was destroyed in the early days of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

Radia

The WindRunner’s capacity of 272,000 cu ft (8,200 cu m) will dwarf that of the Boeing 747-400F at just 21,600 cu m (610 cu m), the Antonov An-124 at 41,000 cu ft (1,160 cu m) and the Airbus Beluga XL at 78,000 cu ft (2,209 cu m). In fact, with such an unsurpassed cargo capacity, the WindRunner’s capacity will exceed that of the Boeing 747F by around twelve times – a simply eye-watering statistic.

Further insight

Radia’s production of WindRunner will rely on already-extant technology in the aerospace industry to expedite the aircraft’s construction and certification process. From the use of efficient aerospace-grade materials and components to manufacturing processes and techniques, Radia is hoping that by doing so, the plane will meet its entry-into-service date at the end of the decade.

According to Rachel Kelley, Radia’s Vice President of Aircraft Development and Chief Engineer who spoke exclusively to AeroTime at the Farnborough Airshow 2024, by using existing technologies such as engines and other key components, WindRunner’s certification is far more likely to proceed to the planned timetable.

Indeed, Kelley, who previously was employed by Boeing as its Director of Engineering for the VC-25B (Air Force One), advised that as another member of the WindRunner team is a former Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulator who was on the team working to certify the airplane, Radia is already collaborating with the FAA on a multi-level basis to ensure that the regulator is aware of every major development in the WindRunner development process.

Kelley said that she sees the potential for “dozens of WindRunner aircraft” given the size of the onshore wind energy market potentially being worth $10 trillion over the coming years.

Radia

WindRunner will be manufactured using conventional techniques, with the final assembly line location yet to be disclosed by the company. Just recently, Radia announced that it has partnered with key industry collaborators such as Aernnova, Leonardo, and AFuzion to bring the WindRunner to life. Aernnova will partner with Radia on the development of the aircraft’s wing and engine pylons, While Leonardo will develop the fuselage, and AFuzion will provide safety and certification consulting.

“WindRunner is an opportunity for the aerospace industry to have a decisive impact on climate change, diversify into the energy industry, and seize an enormous market opportunity,” said Mark Lundstrom, Radia’s CEO. “We are extremely pleased and excited that Aernnova, Leonardo, and AFuzion, three companies at the forefront of aerospace design, development, and engineering, have chosen to partner with us on this critically important project.”

“WindRunner is exciting and consequential,” said Lundstrom, “not only because of the scope of the project but also because of its critical importance to the viability and the economics of renewable energy and society’s ability to meet our growing need for power while achieving our climate goals. Our partnership with Aernnova, Leonardo, and AFuzion will enable us to deliver on that promise, fulfill our mission, and achieve a significant impact on renewables,” he added.

Summary

With the market for onshore wind energy estimated to be worth up to $10 trillion by 2050 by adding as many as one million new wind turbines, there can be little doubt as to the potential for the industry to grow exponentially in the coming years.

However, with the largest turbines limited to offshore sites for the time being, Radia is seeking to unlock that potential by bringing offshore wind energy generation onshore, reducing costs, and increasing overall efficiencies.

With a fleet of WindRunner planes certified and operating globally, transporting turbines and blades closer to their locations, eradicating the need for lengthy and complicated surface transport solutions, and opening up new sites that are currently unavailable due to accessibility issues, the future growth of onshore wind energy seems assured.

Radia

When WindRunner takes to the air by the end of the decade, not only will it open up the wind energy market enormously, but from an aerospace perspective, it will become a landmark moment. Never before will such a huge manmade structure have taken to the air and successfully flown, setting new records and reserving a place for itself in aviation history books.

Aerospace design and technology have come a long way in the 121 years since the Wright Brothers first took to the air in 1903. However, with WindRunner, aviation is truly on the cusp of its next momentous era and its entry into service will raise even more questions about just how much larger aircraft can get. But with Radia’s heavy-lift brainchild due to set the new standard, the answer would appear to be limitless.

All hail the whale! The sixth and final BelugaXL transporter enters service

Aircraft

ByLuke Peters

June 11, 2024

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FedEx starts rolling out new logo for its freighter aircraft fleet

Miquel Ros — Mon, 05 Aug 2024 14:08:55 +0000

Logistics and parcel delivery giant FedEx has started to roll out a new paint scheme on its entire aircraft fleet, as well as its other vehicles.

This rebranding follows a change in strategy, announced by FedEx’s CEO in 2023, that will see the company’s different services such as FedEx Express, FedEx Ground, FedEx Services operating under a single brand.

While the new logo does not represent a radical departure from the company’s existing identity, it features larger lettering and has been placed in a different location on the aircraft’s fuselage.

As of August 2024, 18 of FedEx’s aircraft, from a fleet of more than 650, have already been repainted to reflect the new corporate identity.

FedEx expects its whole vehicle fleet to be rebranded progressively, while it replaces old equipment with new kit. The logistics operator will repaint its aircraft when operations are paused to undergo repairs or because they are set to go through scheduled maintenance and repainting cycles.

The rebranding will also be carried out on any vehicle that comes in for repairs where the current branding is impacted.

The entire process is expected to take several years to complete, sources at FedEx confirmed to AeroTime.

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Emirates SkyCargo places $1 billion order for extra five Boeing 777 Freighters

Ian Molyneaux — Tue, 16 Jul 2024 07:43:04 +0000

Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo segment of the Dubai flag carrier, has placed a $1 billion order for an extra five Boeing 777 Freighters with delivery expected between 2025 and 2026.

Emirates said in a statement on July 16, 2024, that the new order comes off the back of strong growth so far during financial year.

The new Boeing 777 Freighters will see the airline’s available main deck cargo capacity increase by 30%.

“Demand for our world-class product and services is growing exponentially, further amplified by Dubai’s Economic Agenda which aims to double foreign trade and reinforce the city’s position as a global trading hub. This investment in additional Boeing 777 capacity enables us to cater to customer demand and marks a step forward on our long-term strategic growth plan,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates airline and Group.

The Emirates boss added: “The next phase of our strategy will include a full assessment for our future freighter fleet reviewing all aircraft options to ensure we are best equipped to respond to the evolving demands of the market and reaffirming our confidence in the role of airfreight and, more specifically, Emirates SkyCargo, in global trade.”

According to ch-aviation.com, Emirates already has five Boeing 777 Freighters on order and is also currently converting 10 777-300ERs into cargo aircraft.

Emirates confirmed that as the new 777 Freighters arrive it will retire some of its older cargo fleet.

“We are honored that Emirates SkyCargo, renowned for operational excellence and innovation, has once again selected the Boeing 777 Freighter to extend the reach of its global network,” Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said. “We deeply value Emirates’ trust in the Boeing widebody family and are committed to supporting their long-term strategic growth plan.”

Boeing provides more than 90% of the worldwide dedicated freighter capacity, including new production and converted airplanes.

The 777 Freighter is the company’s best-selling freighter plane of all time with more than 265 deliveries to date.

Emirates SkyCargo’s cargo fleet, which includes belly capacity on passenger jets, comprises of Boeing 777s, 777Fs, 747Fs, A350s, and A380s.

With the additional order for five 777 Freighters, Emirates’ total order book stands at 315 widebody aircraft.

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Maersk Air Cargo takes delivery of its first B777-200F to operate China-EU

Jean Carmela Lim — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 15:07:38 +0000

Maersk Air Cargo (MAC) has taken delivery of the first of two B777-200F freighter aircraft from Boeing.

The aircraft handing over ceremony was held at Boeing’s headquarters in Seattle, United States, on July 11, 2024. MAC then flew the freighter to its hub at Billund Airport (BLL) in Denmark two days later.

The second B777-200F freighter is expected to be delivered in the third quarter of 2024. MAC is the first Danish Airline to own a B777 aircraft.

Maersk said the two new freighters will be deployed to the Europe-China service, initially with three weekly flights. This will later be increased to up to six weekly flights.

Welcome to the newest member of #Maersk's air fleet! Yesterday, the first of two B777Fs arrived at our air hub in Billund, Denmark and was welcomed in style. The 777F has a max payload of 102,000 kg and will be deployed on our Europe-China route https://t.co/cYmdN9GIbv pic.twitter.com/tR7ul7Xu7I
— Maersk (@Maersk) July 14, 2024

MAC said that as well as providing more capacity on direct routes, the 777Fs will ensure shorter transit times as well as faster handling times and quality at origin and destination.

Maersk ordered the two 777Fs in November 2021 as part of its fleet modernization. Maersk Air Cargo’s owned fleet will then comprise two B777F and 20 B767F.

“We are delighted to take this important delivery and upgrade our fleet with two of the largest and most reliable freighters available on the market. With this step we are entering the premier league of cargo aviation. The B777F can transport more than double of payload on each flight compared to our 767Fs, and it is the most fuel-efficient aircraft in the world with the GE90 engines,” Head of Maersk Air Cargo Lars Jordahn said in a statement.

Air cargo routes between China and Europe have been on the rise. According to air freight analytics site Xeneta, the average air cargo spot rate from China to Europe in the first week of April 2024 hit USD 3.94 per kg, the highest it has been so far for the year and 76% above its pre-pandemic level in 2019.

The Boeing 777F can fly up to 9,200 kilometers (4,970 nautical miles) and carry a maximum payload of 102,000 kilograms. The main deck fits pallets up to three meters high, and all cargo decks are temperature controlled.

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UPS B767 makes emergency landing at Sydney Airport after mid-air fuel leak

Jean Carmela Lim — Mon, 15 Jul 2024 13:41:58 +0000

A United Parcel Service (UPS) courier aircraft was forced to turn around and perform an emergency landing at Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport (SYD) due to a mid-air fuel leak.

Flight UPS152 departed SYD at around 19:36 local time on July 13, 2024, and was bound for Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) in China.

Less than two hours after the B767-300 departed, a fuel leak was reported when the aircraft was crossing over Queensland territory, and pilots issued a mayday call.

Image: FlightAware

Fire trucks from the New South Wales Fire and Rescue and Sydney Airport were deployed on standby and met the aircraft when it returned to Sydney 65 minutes after the fuel leak was reported.

According to flight tracker site Flightradar24, the B767-300, with registration N331UP, stayed in Sydney overnight and resumed operations the following day, heading to Incheon International Airport (ICN) in South Korea.

The flight had three people onboard.

According to Code7700, a site that calls itself a ‘go-to’ for professional pilots, the two possible sources of an aircraft fuel leak are the tanks or the engines and its feed systems.

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Slippery cargo: shipment of eels escapes from Air Canada Cargo box at YVR

Jean Carmela Lim — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 13:46:37 +0000

More than a dozen eels could be seen slithering around the tarmac at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) on July 7, 2024, surprising ramp agents.

The eels arrived in Vancouver from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) as a cargo shipment with Air Canada Cargo. However, a box containing the live eels accidentally spilled open during unloading, causing the slippery creatures to escape.

This apparently occurred at YVR airport today. ⁦@GlobalBC⁩ pic.twitter.com/PSJvRH8uuE
— Lyle Chausse (@rockerdad) July 8, 2024

The slimy incident was captured on video and uploaded to social media. In the footage the eels can be seen writhing around on the tarmac, just under a belt unloading conveyor.

The box where the eels came from can be seen sitting on top of the conveyor, with more eels escaping and sliding down the belt and onto the ground. Gasps and screams from ramp agents can be heard.

Air Canada Cargo said the eels were collected and repackaged and it is in contact with the customer regarding the incident.

Operations were not affected by the eel spill.

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Turkish Airlines orders four Boeing 777Fs in response to growing global demand

Ian Molyneaux — Tue, 02 Jul 2024 14:37:09 +0000

Turkish Airlines has placed an order with Boeing for four 777 Freighters with the airline citing a growing global demand for cargo services as the catalyst.

Turkish Airlines’ acquisition of four more Boeing 777 Freighters will see the aircraft type’s numbers triple from eight to 12 in the near future.

The deal between Boeing and Turkish Airlines was announced on July 2, 2024, but no schedule delivery date was confirmed.

“This new investment in expanding our cargo fleet underscores our commitment to meeting the growing global demand for air freight services,” said Turkish Airlines Chief Cargo Officer Ali Türk. “The addition of these Boeing 777 Freighters will not only enhance our operational capabilities, but also serve as another step in our strategic vision to reach the top of air cargo sector worldwide while maintaining our leading position with our unparalleled service and efficiency for our customers across the globe.”

Boeing said in a statement that the new order was reflective of the “rapid growth of e-commerce and the need for efficient and reliable transportation across the globe” and that the extra freighters will provide Turkish Airlines with an additional 408 metric tons to its cargo lift.

“We are proud to continue our long-standing partnership with Turkish Airlines and support its expansion of cargo operations with the addition of Boeing 777 Freighters,” said Paul Righi, Vice President of Boeing Commercial Sales for Eurasia. “The 777 Freighter’s payload capacity, range and flexibility will enable Turkish Airlines to deliver exceptional customer service while maximizing operational efficiency.”

With more than 265 deliveries, the 777 Freighter is Boeing’s best-selling freighter airplane of all time.

It remains to be seen if Boeing and Turkish Airlines announce more orders over next few months, particularly in the passenger jet segment.

At the International Air Travel Association’s (IATA) annual general meeting (AGM) in June 2024, Turkish Airlines Chairman Ahmet Bolat revealed that talks had opened with Boeing over a possible order for 250 aircraft.

Speaking to journalists on June 4, 2024, Bolat said discussions had so far included the cost of engines for 150 737 MAXs and 75 Boeing 787 Dreamliners.

The news of a possible order with Boeing came after Turkish Airlines placed a firm order in December 2023 with Airbus for 230 aircraft, comprised of A350-900s, A350-1000s and A350Fs.

Bolat also suggested that an order with Boeing was a strategy to “split the risk” between the US planemaker and Airbus.

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FedEx Express to retire 22 Boeing 757 freighters as downturn continues to bite

Luke Peters — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 10:57:36 +0000

FedEx Express has announced that it has permanently retired another 22 of its Boeing 757-200 freighters as the carrier continues to manage its fleet resources. The announcement came on June 25, 2024, as the Memphis-based shipping and logistics company revealed its financial results for the quarter ending May 31, 2024.

The company reported fiscal fourth-quarter revenues of $201 million, compared with $430 million during the same period in 2023, resulting in a year-on-year decrease of 53%. 

“Fourth quarter results include a non-cash impairment charge of $157 million from the decision to permanently retire 22 Boeing 757-200 aircraft and seven related engines as the company continues to modernize its fleet, improve its global network efficiency, and better align air network capacity with current and anticipated demand,” the firm reported. 

The 757s have formed the backbone of the all-cargo airline’s operations across North America (as well as on some international routes) since the type replaced Boeing 727s, of which the carrier once operated around 180 aircraft. According to ch-aviation, FedEx now has a fleet of 109 757-200s in its fleet, with 57 showing as active while 52 are described as inactive. Many of the airframes still flying are well over 30 years of age.

The decision was made alongside the closure of seven FedEx facilities to better “match capacity with demand,” the corporation said.

sockagphoto / Shutterstock

The company blamed lower international cargo yields as the primary driver of the decreased financial performance of FedEx Express over the past year. Equally, the company has struggled since the end of the pandemic in which it thrived.

As more passenger aircraft have returned to the global fleet of aircraft offering more belly-hold space to freight forwarders, cargo airlines have seen demand for their services fluctuate hugely. FedEx has been one of several freight-only airlines reviewing pilot contracts and decreasing fleet sizes amid the shifting landscape of air cargo markets.

Adding to FedEx’s challenges, at the start of 2024, rival company United Parcel Service (UPS) secured the lucrative contract to become the primary air cargo carrier for the US Postal Service (USPS), a contract that FedEx had held for the past two decades. This is thought to be another contributing factor to the retirement of the 757s from the FedEx fleet.  

The company is forecasting revenues of $5.2 billion for fiscal 2025, “with a priority on investments in network optimization and efficiency improvement, including fleet and facility modernization and automation”. 

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Etihad Cargo expands European freighter network with launch of Madrid flights

Luke Peters — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 14:03:20 +0000

Etihad Cargo, the cargo and logistics arm of Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways, has announced it will be expanding its freighter network with a new route to Madrid. Starting on July 15, 2024, Etihad Cargo will operate two weekly Boeing 777 freighter flights between Abu Dhabi Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Madrid-Barajas International Airport (MAD). The new route is expected to add over 200 tons of cargo capacity for Europe each week.

The launch of a twice-weekly freighter service between Abu Dhabi and Madrid will increase the airline’s total number of flights to Spain to 25 per week. Etihad Cargo offers its customers belly capacity on 10 Etihad passenger services to Madrid each week, 10 to Barcelona, plus three seasonal flights to Malaga launched as part of the airline’s 2024 northern summer schedule.

According to a company statement, “This expansion highlights the strategic importance of these destinations, particularly Madrid as a key European fashion hub, and aims to boost e-commerce connectivity from Asia to Europe via Etihad Cargo’s Abu Dhabi hub.”

“Launching Madrid as Etihad Cargo’s latest European freighter destination supports the growing demand for e-commerce flows between Asia and Europe,” said Stanislas Brun, Vice President of Cargo at Etihad Cargo. “Madrid’s role as a key fashion hub makes it an essential destination for the carrier’s freighter network.”

Etihad Cargo

This new route complements Etihad Cargo’s existing European freighter network, which includes six weekly flights to Amsterdam and three weekly flights to Frankfurt. With the addition of Madrid to the network, the total number of Etihad Cargo’s freighter flights to Europe increases to 11 per week overall.

Additionally, Etihad Cargo customers can also benefit from additional belly hold capacity offered as part of the carrier’s 2024 summer schedule, which includes the launch of two weekly seasonal flights to Nice, France. Flights to Athens in Greece will also be increasing to 14 per week, with two operating via seasonal destination Mykonos and two via Santorini.

A new route to Antalya will operate with three weekly flights, and flights to Istanbul will increase from 10 to 14 per week starting on July 22, 2024. Additionally, Dublin will see three more flights from July 23, 2024, totaling 10 per week.

According to ch-aviation, Etihad Cargo operates a fleet of five Boeing 777-200F freighters and also has an additional seven Airbus A350Fs on order.

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Lufthansa Cargo launches brand-new Airbus A321 freighter route from Munich

Ian Molyneaux — Tue, 18 Jun 2024 08:25:31 +0000

Lufthansa Cargo has announced that it will launch a brand-new freighter route from Munich Airport (MUC) next month.

The company said that from July 6, 2024, a Lufthansa Cargo Airbus A321 freighter will transport cargo between Munich and Istanbul Airport (IST) in Turkey twice a week.

This will be in addition to the carrier’s existing belly cargo operations from Munich using mainly Lufthansa, Brussels Airlines, Discover Airlines, Austrian Airlines and SunExpress passenger aircraft.

“We are looking forward to offering our customers this new freighter connection, which makes our global network even more attractive. For our southern German customers in particular, Munich Airport offers ideal conditions for the fast and reliable transportation of air freight, which ultimately also enables global business from another important European airport,” said Ashwin Bhat, CEO of Lufthansa Cargo.

The freighter boss added: “With the launch of our cargo operations out of Munich, we are laying the foundation for aligning our network even more closely with the needs of our customers in the future and continuing to manage it flexibly.”

The new freighter connection is planned every Saturday and Sunday with flight numbers LH8350 / LH8351 and LH8346 / LH8347.

At Lufthansa Cargo’s 38,000 m² Munich base the company runs its CEIV-certified Pharma Hub, in which temperature-sensitive pharmaceutical products can be stored and handled under optimal conditions.

“The launch of regular cargo flights to Istanbul by Lufthansa Cargo is very good news for the Bavarian export industry and for Munich Airport. Above-average growth rates in the current year have already shown that Munich Airport is also becoming increasingly important as a hub airport for cargo,” said Jost Lammers, CEO of Flughafen München GmbH.

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Silk Way West Airlines transports 117 yaks from Kyrgyzstan to Azerbaijan

Luke Peters — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 13:53:13 +0000

A consignment of 16 live yaks has been successfully transported from Kyrgyzstan to Azerbaijan by Silk Way West Airlines, a cargo-only carrier based at Baku’s Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) in Azerbaijan.

The mission was conducted at the request of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Azerbaijan to bolster the yak breeding program in Kalbajar, a region of the country located around 450km from the national capital of Baku.

The yaks, said to be vital to the agricultural biodiversity of Azerbaijan, traveled over 1,250 miles (2,000 km) aboard one of the airline’s fleet of Boeing 747-400F freighters from Bishkek Manas International Airport (FRU) to Ganja Airport (GNJ) in Azerbaijan.

To ensure the highest welfare standards, the yaks were accommodated by Silk Way West in custom-designed crates that provided protection from injury and stress. The aircraft was also equipped with advanced ventilation and temperature control systems to maintain an optimal environment throughout the journey.

Dennis Jarvis / Wikimedia Commons

According to the carrier, this “demonstrates the airline’s firm support of sustainable agricultural development” in its home nation, while the project also aligns with its “broader corporate social responsibility goals, which include supporting environmental sustainability and aiding in the development of local communities”.

Upon arrival in Ganja, the yaks were carefully transported by truck to their new homes in the lush pastures of Kalbajar. There, they are set to “contribute to local agricultural practices and enhance the genetic diversity of the region’s livestock,” the carrier said.

“We are honored to support sustainable agriculture and biodiversity through expert handling and transportation of live animals,” said Vugar Mammadov, Vice-President CIS and Central Asia at Silk Way West Airlines. “This collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture underscores our commitment to enhancing local ecosystems and contributing to global sustainability efforts,” he added.

Davide Calabresi / Shutterstock

Silk Way West is a leading cargo airline in the Caspian and Central Asian region and part of the larger Silk Way group. The carrier operates a fleet of 12 dedicated freighter aircraft comprising five Boeing 747-400Fs, five 747-8Fs, and two 777-200Fs on routes worldwide.

The carrier claims to have a longstanding history of managing complex live animal shipments. The company’s portfolio of animal transportation over recent years includes various species such as alpacas, kangaroos, dogs, horses, and European bison, which the airline suggests “showcases its extensive capabilities and dedication to animal welfare”.

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Three Airbus A340-600 passenger planes find new lease of life as freighters

Luke Peters — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 11:07:17 +0000

Specialist British air cargo airline European Cargo has announced that it is preparing to take delivery of three additional Airbus A340-600 freighters later in 2024. The trio of aircraft are all former passenger-carrying variants of the quad-jet that have been specially adapted for the carriage of freight only on their main decks.

The carrier, which specializes in cargo-only operations between Bournemouth International Airport (BOH) located on the south coast of England and China, will add its fourth A340-600 converted freighter in July 2024, with two more to follow before October 2024.

The carrier uses its three current A340-600s for e-commerce flights on routes from Bournemouth to Chengdu, Bournemouth to Haikou direct, and Haikou to Bournemouth via Vienna. At the time of writing, the airline has not confirmed on which routes the additional three aircraft will be utilized.

European Cargo

European’s A340-600 long-haul freighter aircraft offer a payload capacity of 76 tonnes and a cargo capacity of 440 cu m. The aircraft have been converted with a bespoke in-cabin pod containment system to add to belly capacity, but they do not feature a main deck cargo door. Instead, a unique roller-floor system is fitted to ease the loading and unloading of packages/boxes of goods along the main deck via the former passenger doors.  

European Cargo

The company’s current fleet comprises A340-600s G-ECLB, G-FCLC, and G-ECLN. The provenance of these aircraft, all of which are around 18 years old, can be traced back to Virgin Atlantic, to whom they were originally registered as G-VFIT, G-VRED, and G-VWEB respectively.

European Cargo has formed a close collaboration with Cargo First, the dedicated freight-handling organization of Bournemouth Airport’s owners, the British group Regional and City Airports (RCA). RCA also owns the airports of Coventry, Exeter, and Norwich, as well as operating FBO (fixed base operator) executive jet handling facilities located at Birmingham, Bournemouth, Exeter, and Liverpool airports.

The collaboration between the two firms has witnessed a rapid rise in European Cargo’s operation over the past twelve months, the success of which now necessitates the three additional aircraft being brought online. To meet this rise, since 2023 Cargo First has recruited 15 new members of staff to cover warehousing, aircraft handling, and security roles.

The two companies have announced that they are pitching Bournemouth Airport as an alternative to the other constrained London airport hubs, at a time when the Red Sea shipping crisis is helping to drive air cargo demand between China and Europe upwards, with the northern autumn air cargo peak season fast approaching.

European Cargo

“We recently celebrated the first anniversary of flights from Bournemouth to Chengdu and in our first year operated almost 300 flights, carrying some 20,000 tonnes of cargo,” said European Cargo’s Chief Executive Jason Holt. “With our fourth fully converted long-haul freighter expected to enter service in July and two more by October, we see continued growing interest in our aircraft and services.”

“We continue to gear up to handle the autumn peak and accompanying additional services coming on stream in the next few months,” Holt added.

Bournemouth Airport managing director Steve Gill said the airport is also looking at longer-term infrastructure investment to add more dedicated cargo facilities.

“Our collaboration with European Cargo has established Bournemouth as a reliable and cost-effective hub for e-commerce and other air freight into the UK, with a proven track record of delivering a highly efficient service for time-sensitive consignments for our customers,” Gill said.

He added: “With European Cargo’s additional freighters coming on stream shortly and the constraints facing other UK hubs, we see a significant opportunity to grow the market further as we ramp up for the peak season. Our partnership with European Cargo has turned Bournemouth into a reliable and cost-effective hub for e-commerce and other types of air cargo in the UK, with a proven track record of delivering highly efficient service for our clients’ urgent shipments.”

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Qatar Airways Cargo and MASkargo sign MoU to enter joint business operations

Jean Carmela Lim — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 11:59:53 +0000

Qatar Airways Cargo and Maskargo, the cargo division of Malaysia Airlines, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enter joint cargo business operations.

Both carriers are oneworld partners and according to Qatar Airways the agreement will deliver an enhanced product offering to cargo customers and “help achieve operational synergies”.

#QatarAirways Cargo and MASkargo have partnered to enhance their cargo operations by offering increased connectivity across both airlines’ global networks via their key hubs – @HIAQatar and Kuala Lumpur International Airport: https://t.co/D2runQFKg1
— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) June 10, 2024

The MoU follows an expanded codeshare agreement signed by Qatar Airways and Malaysia Airlines in 2022 to offer increased connectivity to passengers.

Under the MoU, MASkargo customers will have access to Qatar Airways Cargo network, while Qatar Airways Cargo customers will have access to the growing APAC market, which includes new destinations and additional capacity in existing stations.

The airlines will also be able to leverage its respective hubs, Hamad International Airport (DOH) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL), as strategic stops to serve the combined network.

Qatar Airways Cargo said that its growth strategies align with MASkargo. Qatar Airways Cargo has purchased 34 Boeing 777-8 freighter aircraft and has options for 16 more.

Meanwhile, Malaysia Airlines has obtained 20 new A330neo aircraft for passenger flights operations. The aircraft belly-hold capacity will be used for cargo purposes.

“Our new MoU with Malaysia Aviation Group is testament to our deepening relations with Malaysia and the integral APAC market,” Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer said in a statement.

“This strategic cooperation with our oneworld partner will serve to link our freighter and belly-hold networks with our cargo product offering and capacity, allowing us to further cement our relationship and foster the close links between our airlines,” Al-Meer added.

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Retirements to tighten narrowbody freighter capacity amid e-commerce growth

Gediminas Ziemelis — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 11:03:37 +0000

As the freighter market has begun to stabilize after the return of passenger aircraft belly capacity, the drop in demand for narrowbody freighters and the corresponding decrease in supply could result in capacity shortcomings in the near future. The inconveniently timed retirements of aircraft types vital to surging e-commerce operations, combined with a decrease in passenger-to-freighter conversions, create an opportunity for narrowbody fleet investment.

Narrowbody passenger-to-freighter conversions past their peak

As a result of the elimination of belly capacity provided by passenger aircraft during the pandemic, as well as the growth of e-commerce, many aircraft owners and operators turned to passenger-to-freighter conversions as a potential way to increase their revenue.

As a result, conversions more than tripled from 61 in 2019 to about 185 in 2023, representing a growth of 32% per year during that period, according to McKinsey & Company. This increase in conversions was driven by the narrowbody segment and included the introduction of a variety of new freighter types such as the A321P2F in 2020, followed by the A321PCF and A320P2F a couple of years later.

It was the 737-800 freighter type that saw the most growth, with many lessors converting aircraft speculatively because they had no use for them in the passenger market at the time.

While the narrowbody conversion market saw tremendous growth during the first two years of the pandemic, deliveries of converted freighters have slowed now that passenger flights have resumed and even overtaken 2019 levels. Various STC holders reduced their delivery schedules in 2024, while other conversion houses have voiced concerns about challenges facing maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities, including supply-chain shortages and decreasing demand.

Narrowbody freighters coming off conversion lines have also headed into storage, leading to concerns about overcapacity, according to Oliver Wyman.

Overall, McKinsey & Company expects a decrease in conversions of ~5-10% per year from 2023 through 2030. The drop in demand experienced today is tied to not only the return of belly capacity but the strength of the passenger market itself as well as delays with new aircraft deliveries, prompting lessors to keep aircraft in service with passenger operators for longer.

E-commerce growth remains while conversions slow

The rise and potential of e-commerce growth has confounded traditional thinking of the freighter market. While growth of air cargo in terms of Revenue Tonne Kilometers (RTKs) has traditionally been closely linked to growth in GDP, long-term air cargo traffic will continue to outpace global trade growth due to “structural factors” like e-commerce and evolving supply chains, according to Boeing’s most recent Commercial Market Outlook, published in June 2023.

E-commerce has doubled its share of retail sales over the last five years and could account for 23% by 2026, with a demonstrable impact on narrowbody freighter demand, according to Boeing.

Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook also says that new express networks will continue to support the growth in e-commerce, with a forecasted growth of 58% in express fleets over the next 20 years, while specific rates of growth will change per region with new ACMI opportunities being created around e-commerce platforms. In the narrowbody market, for example, the 737-800 freighter has already been adopted and utilized by the likes of Amazon, DHL, Mercado Libre and JD.com for their own networks.

Anticipated retirements will exacerbate a shortage

With the tremendous growth in e-commerce, and future supply of converted freighters stumped by shortfalls in present demand, an increase in retirements is expected in the next few years for many of the aircraft in the express freighter fleet. While e-commerce has relied upon narrowbody workhorses like the 737-400F and 757-200F, both types are nearing their inevitable retirements.

In fact, Boeing estimates in its Commercial Market Outlook that there are more than 700 older technology narrowbody freighters still in service that are 30 years old on average.

In the case of the 737-400F, Europe’s largest operator of the type, ASL Aviation Holdings, has begun replacing its inventory of the Classic with 737-800 freighters. While in 2019, ASL was operating more than 40 737-400s, by 2023, that number had dwindled to around 25 of the type.

As for the 757-200F, DHL has already sent some to be parted out while the largest 757 operator, FedEx, has recently started retiring the type. Despite the ability of the aircraft type to preserve its value to the airline in its age, with express operators like SF Airlines signing 10-year agreements with Spirit Aerosystems in 2021 to maintain its 40-strong 757-200 fleet; the average age of these aircraft nearing 30 years old creates an inevitable conclusion: replacements will be needed to keep pace with the doubling of e-commerce in the next 20 years.

Ultimately, airlines wishing to take advantage of the assurance of growth in e-commerce will be facing a shortage of converted narrowbody freighter availability as retirements continue. Combined with the decrease in conversions in the long-term outlook, there is an impending shortfall of freighter capacity in this segment.

Despite short-term drops and the tumultuous upsets of the past few years, it is important to remember that the cargo industry is cyclical but still carries potential in the long run. After all, global air cargo demand, partly driven by e-commerce, will grow at around 2-4% every year through 2030, according to McKinsey. Businesses investing in narrowbody converted freighters for e-commerce can therefore expect stable, long-term returns on their investment.

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FAA clears Amazon drones to operate more widely, European operations imminent

Luke Peters — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 13:56:01 +0000

Global e-commerce giant Amazon has announced that the US Federal Aviation Authority has granted its Prime Air division approval to conduct drone delivery operations ‘beyond visual line of sight’ (BVLOS) in the US for the first time.

The move will allow the company to operate its drones over much greater distances to expand and develop its drone-based delivery operations across the US.

“To obtain this permission, we developed a BVLOS strategy, including an onboard detect-and-avoid technology,” said a company statement issued on May 24, 2024. “We’ve spent years developing, testing, and refining our onboard detect-and-avoid system to ensure our drones can detect and avoid obstacles in the air.”

According to the company, eleven years on from commencing drone feasibility and four years after receiving the initial FAA Air Carrier Certificate award enabling it to operate effectively as an airline and deliver small packages via drone, Prime Air is now in a position to increase its network of drone deliveries across Texas and California using its MK-27 drone, and safely scale operations to more US destinations.

Amazon is planning to operate drones near its same-day delivery sites to guarantee faster delivery times and offer a greater range of products via drone delivery. The company has been using drones to deliver packages weighing up to five pounds (approximately 2.2 kilograms) in one hour or less, since the middle of 2023. Items offered for delivery by drone include household products, everyday essentials, beauty items, and office/tech supplies.

The FAA permissions came after Amazon presented the results of its BVLOS strategy including crucial engineering information regarding the design, operation, maintenance, and validation of its BVLOS system, including onboard detect-and-avoid capabilities to the FAA.

Additionally, flight demonstrations were conducted in the presence of FAA inspectors, carried out to demonstrate safe navigation performance in real-world scenarios, such as in the presence of real planes, helicopters, and a hot air balloon.

Amazon Prime Air

“Our vision has remained unchanged since we started working on Prime Air: to create a safe and scalable way to deliver packages to customers in 30 minutes or less using highly autonomous drones,” continued the Prime Air statement. “To achieve our goal of delivering 500 million packages, per year, by drone, by the end of this decade, we knew we had to design a system capable of serving highly populated areas and that was safer than driving to the store. We’re excited to launch this next chapter for Prime Air,” the statement concludes.

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the world, Amazon customers in the UK and Italy will soon have the option to get their packages delivered by drone. The Prime Air drone delivery system is expanding to the two countries by the end of 2024 and will also expand to further cities in the US by the end of 2025.

Amazon Prime Air

“As part of our continued efforts to innovate for customers, we are excited to announce the expansion of Prime Air delivery internationally, for the first time outside the US,” said David Carbon, Vice President of Amazon Prime Air. “We have been delivering packages by drone for almost a year in California and Texas. We have built a safe, reliable delivery service and have partnered very closely with regulators and communities. We will continue with that collaboration into the future to ensure we are meeting the needs of our customers and the communities we serve.”

“In addition to the new delivery sites, Prime Air is unveiling the new MK30 drone design, which is quieter, smaller, and lighter, than previous models. We’re also announcing that drone deliveries will be integrated into Amazon’s delivery network, meaning drones will deploy from some same-day delivery sites. In the UK and Italy, we will start integrating into some of our fulfilment centers, which will provide Amazon customers with faster delivery of an even greater selection of items. We will start with one site in each location and expand over time,” he added.

Amazon Prime Air

“We are working closely with national regulators and international regulators, and communities in the EU, Italy, the UK, and the US, to develop this program. We have committed the necessary time and resources to build a safe and scalable service. We have refined the technology and are now building the right infrastructure to ensure the service provides the ultimate convenience for our customers.”

“We’ve also taken great care to ensure that our drones’ design philosophy and demonstrated levels of safety are setting a higher bar for safety across the commercial drone delivery industry, working closely with regulators to design to the highest standard set within those regulations,” Carbon concluded.

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Qatar Airways Cargo to transport lions rescued from the illegal wildlife trade

Jean Carmela Lim — Thu, 23 May 2024 14:26:56 +0000

Qatar Airways Cargo announced that it is working with non-profit wildlife foundation Animal Defenders International (ADI) to transport six young lions rescued from the illegal wildlife trade to the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary in Johannesburg.

Known as the ‘Kuwait 6’, the young male lions Muheeb, Saham, Shujaa, Saif, and female lions Dhubiya and Aziza, were cared for at Kuwait Zoo. ADI was contacted by Kuwait government officials to help shelter the lions, so ADI offered all six a home at its 455-acre sanctuary in South Africa.

Qatar Airways Cargo’s WeQare rewild the planet initiative has supported the air cargo transport of six young lions from the illegal wildlife trade to the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary in Johannesburg.
Known as the “Kuwait 6” the males Muheeb, Saham, Shujaa, Saif, and females Dhubiya… pic.twitter.com/yBKYWSawAo
— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) May 23, 2024

“We are proud to once again be supporting ADI, this time in bringing these six beautiful lions home to Africa. Our WeQare Rewild the Planet initiative is our commitment to returning wildlife and endangered species back to their natural habitat,” Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo said, adding that the transport is free of charge.

“It takes a lot of effort and logistics for our team to organize moving such large animals; from the logistics at the airports, loading and unloading the animals from the aircraft, to ensuring the correct cages and wellbeing of the animals are in place, but it is something we are all collectively very proud and passionate to be a part of,” Drusch added.

“The Kuwait 6 lions have their whole lives ahead of them and will have acres of space at the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary. We are thankful to Qatar Airways Cargo and their WeQare program in once again supporting us by covering the cost of the air transport back to Africa,” said Jan Creamer, President, Animals Defenders International.

Qatar Airways Cargo recently opened its new state-of-the-art Animal Centre and relaunched its Live product, setting new benchmarks in the transport of live animals, and had flown more than 550,000 animals in 2023.

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SmartLynx A321P2F arrives in Brazil, first of type to operate in South America

Luke Peters — Tue, 21 May 2024 13:02:10 +0000

The first Airbus A321P2F (passenger-to-cargo converted freighter) to operate on the continent of South America has arrived in Brazil ahead of its entry into service with new Brazilian cargo company, Levu Air Cargo. The aircraft, operated by ACMI carrier SmartLynx Malta and leased to Levu Air, will be flown exclusively on routes within the continent on behalf of express freight giant, DHL Express.

As a startup in the emerging market of air cargo carriers in Brazil, Levu Air Cargo plans to operate in both national and international markets through both its own fleet and strategic partnerships. The company is headquartered in Campinas, one of the primary air hubs in Brazil. It also plans to operate from bases in Recife, Belém, and Manaus.

According to a Levu Air statement, the company was “established to introduce innovation and provide high service standards in the Brazilian market, which led the company to select the finest aircraft in its category.”

A spokesperson for Levu Air stated that the newfound carrier is engaging in the final steps with ANAC (the Brazilian aviation regulator) for its certification process and expects to obtain its Air Operators Certificate (AOC) in June 2024 following which it will be authorized to transport all types of cargo on the aircraft including dangerous goods.

Once it has obtained its AOC, the carrier will also start the process of certification under European (EASA), and US (FAA and DOT) so it may perform international cargo flights from 2025.

The dry-leased aircraft (registered (9H-CGD) arrived in Recife, Brazil on May 10, 2024, after a lengthy ferry flight from its base at Malta International Airport (MLA) to Recife (REC) with just a single stop in Espargos Airport (SID) in Sal, Cape Verde. Once the aircraft has been registered by the Brazilian aviation authorities, the aircraft is expected to take up the local registration of PS-LVU.

SmartyLynx

“We specifically sought out SmartLynx due to their extensive knowledge of the aircraft as they are the biggest operator for A321F in the world today,” said Rodrigo Pacheco, Chief Executive of Levu Air Cargo.

“Their partnership with DHL in Europe makes the learning curve much more efficient for us as we will operate for the DHL supply chain here in Brazil. This strategic decision helps us deliver top-notch performance and ensures the best results for our valued customers,” he added.

“Our partnership with Levu marks a significant milestone, not only for the Brazilian aviation market with the introduction of the first A321F registered in the country and region, but also for SmartLynx as we extend our cargo capacity management services to Latin America,” said Edvinas Demenius, Chief Executive of SmartLynx Airlines. “This important step is a part of our strategic efforts to expand our geography and we see much potential in this region.”

SmartLynx Malta is a subsidiary of Latvian-based SmarLynx Airlines, which itself is part of Avia Solutions Group (ASG). SmartLynx operates a mixed fleet of Airbus A320, A321, A321F, A330, and Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

The aircraft concerned in the lease agreement between the parties is 26.4 years old, having originally been delivered to defunct UK charter carrier Airworld in February 1998. Having served with a range of carriers carrying passengers during its career (including Flying Colours, Air Jamaica, Turkuaz Airlines, and Ural Airlines) the aircraft was converted into a freighter in September 2022 and has flown with SmarLynx Malta since.

SmartLynx

The A321F is the only aircraft in its category capable of handling containerized cargo on both its lower and main decks, which significantly improves turnover efficiency and operational flexibility.

With its expanding portfolio of ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance, insurance) specialist airlines. ASG itself currently holds 12 AOCs internationally serving passenger and cargo ACMI businesses and plans to establish and acquire four additional airlines across various countries by the end of 2024. The Group currently operates a combined fleet of 212 aircraft, making it the world’s largest ACMI service company group. 

On May 13, 2024, ASG announced that another of its new startup airlines, Avion Express Brasil had entered Phase 3 of the certification process for the acquisition of its own AOC in Brazil. The carrier hopes to complete the certification process and begin operations in late 2024.   

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Air Atlanta 747 freighter rejects takeoff from taxiway at Riyadh Airport

Luke Peters — Wed, 01 May 2024 10:03:07 +0000

A Boeing 747 freighter aborted its takeoff run at Riyadh Airport after realizing it was taking off from a taxiway instead of its assigned runway. An investigation is now underway to determine how the event occurred and how similar incidents might be avoided in the future.

On April 22, 2024, an Air Atlanta Europe Malta Boeing 747-400 freighter operating on behalf of Saudi Arabian Airlines was scheduled to depart from Riyadh King Khalid International Airport (RUH) and fly to Nairobi (NBO) in Kenya. Data from Flightradar24 shows that the aircraft taxied from the cargo apron located at the northwestern end of the airfield at 00:28 before taxying down to the taxiway leading to runway 33R. This runway has a total length of 13,796 feet (4,205 meters).

However, having turned left towards the runway, rather than continuing down to the holding point for the active runway, the crew prematurely turned left again onto the end of taxiway K. This taxiway has a total length of just 4,880 feet (1,490 meters) – around a third of the length of runway 33R alongside it.

Flightradar24

At 00:37 local time, the 747 freighter was cleared to take off from runway 33R by Riyadh air traffic controllers. However, for reasons yet to be determined, the crew of the Air Atlanta cargo plane began their takeoff roll from taxiway K.

The aircraft accelerated down taxiway K, seemingly intending to take off. However, with the aircraft having reached a ground speed of 110 knots (126 mph/202 kph) and with the end of the taxiway fast approaching, the crew of the cargo plane suddenly realized their mistake and aborted the takeoff roll.

According to a report of the incident published by Aviation Herald, the aircraft managed to come to a stop a distance of 4,780 feet (1,450 meters) from the start of taxiway K. Simple mathematics determines that the aircraft came to a halt with just 100 feet (30 meters) of tarmac ahead of it.

Google Earth

Meteorological reports from the airport showed that at the time of the incident, the outside air temperature at Riyadh Airport was around 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). An abrupt stop for such a heavy aircraft in such high temperatures would have undoubtedly led to overheated brakes which could also have resulted in damage to the landing gear assembly.

Having returned to the cargo apron following the incident, the aircraft’s flight to Nairobi was subsequently canceled, and the aircraft then spent the next two days in the hands of Air Atlanta engineers before finally being dispatched to Hong Kong on April 23, 2024.

heychli / Shutterstock

Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Investigation Bureau is now looking into this incident to determine the cause of any errors that were made which could have led to the flawed take-off attempt. The investigators will be keen to understand how the crew managed to mistake a relatively short taxiway for a much longer runway at the airport.

Additionally, checks by the crew themselves as well as systems onboard the flight deck should have alerted the crew of their mistake, However, it would appear that these warnings were overlooked.

Further details

The aircraft involved in the incident was a 29-year-old 747-400 freighter with the registration 9H-AKF. This aircraft first flew in December 1994 and was originally delivered to EVA Air in Taiwan as a passenger variant. It was converted into a freighter in August 2007 and was later acquired by Air Atlanta in March 2019. The aircraft was transferred from parent company Air Atlanta Icelandic to Air Atlanta Europe Malta in October 2022.

Notwithstanding the seriousness of this incident and the potential it held to end very differently, Riyadh Airport witnessed a very similar incident back in 2018. On that occasion, a Jet Airways Boeing 737 also attempted to take off from taxiway K after being cleared to take off from runway 33R. In this earlier incident, the aircraft failed to stop before reaching the end of the taxiway, eventually coming to a halt on the soft ground beyond the end of the tarmac surface of taxiway K.

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KLM Air Cargo transports three koalas and two lions in the same week

Luke Peters — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 03:00:00 +0000

Assisted by wildlife transportation specialists from KLM Air Cargo, Ouwehands Zoo in the Netherlands has welcomed three koalas to a new custom-built, dedicated habitat called “Koalia”. Thanks to the effort of employees at the airline, the recent arrival of the koalas marked not only the first time that the species has been in the country but the first time that koalas have ever set foot on Dutch soil.

On April 4, 2024, an animal caretaker from Ouwehands Zoo traveled to the world-renowned San Diego Zoo in California to pick up the trio of koalas. After several days of training with caregivers, the caretaker returned with the three koalas that will inhabit a brand-new residence at the Zoo.

The KLM Boeing 787 aircraft, flying from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on one of KLM’s scheduled twice-daily flights, arrived at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) on the morning of April 19, 2024, with the three koalas safely onboard.

KLM

Upon their arrival, the animals were unloaded from the aircraft´s cargo hold and transported to the KLM Animal Hotel, where they were cleared through customs and underwent a health check. The final leg of the journey saw them traveling from Amsterdam to Ouwehands Zoo by road. Having got over their jetlag, the koalas are reportedly already on display in their new enclosure at the Zoo.

KLM (Note: Koalas depicted in the photo are not the actual koalas involved)

Yet it is not just marsupials that the airline has been transporting in April 2024. The air cargo company has also been engaged in transporting some rather less cuddly animals in recent days.

On April 25, 2024, on behalf of animal charity ‘Four Paws’ based in the Netherlands and South Africa, KLM Air Cargo carried a cargo of two lions, known to their keepers as ‘Vasylyna’ and ‘Nikola’. Both large cats had previously been illegally held as pets in their home countries.

The lioness Vasylyna had originally broken free of her house in Ukraine, roaming the streets of a village near Kharkiv as war carried on around her until she was caught. She was kept in a Ukrainian temporary wildlife shelter before being taken to the FELIDA big cat sanctuary in the Netherlands in June 2023.

Nikola was roaming wild in Budva on the Adriatic coast before he was also caught and taken to FELIDA. The ultimate destination for the two cats was to be Lionsrock Park, a 1,250-hectare wildlife sanctuary in South Africa

Vasylyna and Nikola’s journey to South Africa began on April 25, 2024, when they were loaded onto a Martinair Cargo 747 freighter aircraft in Amsterdam. Martinair is the cargo-only subsidiary of the Air France-KLM Group. The animals arrived safe and well at their new home at Lionsrock after a safe flight from Europe to begin their new lives.

Peter Bakema / Wikimedia Commons

“Our team of seasoned professionals is ready to deliver the best service and care, including special diets, administering medication, and, of course, plenty of love and attention. We strive to ensure that every animal with us is happy, healthy, and well-cared for,” said Petra Sleven, Director of Four Paws.

“The relocation of Vasylyna and Nikola to Lionsrock means they finally have the opportunity to live in a large sanctuary, surrounded by other lions. While it’s saddening that they never had the chance to be released into the wild due to illegal trade, we are glad to offer them a more natural life here,” she added.

Rock-It Cargo

“At our animal hotel at Schiphol, we prioritize dedication to providing the best care for our animal passengers, said Mirjam Scherer, Global Head of Specials Logistics at Air France KLM Martinair Cargo. “We ensure the highest level of attention and care for every animal under our care, from the moment of arrival to departure.”

KLM Air Cargo specializes in the animal-friendly, responsible transportation of various species and employs specialized staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to accompany the animals on their journey. Additionally, KLM is the only airline with its own animal hotel located on-site at Amsterdam-Schiphol.

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Airbus A350F launch customer CMA CGM Air Cargo orders another four aircraft

Luke Peters — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 12:55:22 +0000

Specialist airfreight carrier CMA CGM Air Cargo has announced that it has placed an order for four Airbus A350Fs, in addition to the four A350Fs the carrier ordered in 2021. All eight of the new planes, for which the company will be the launch commercial customer, are expected to be in service by the end of 2027, allowing the company to offer its services on a global scale for the first time.

CMA CGM Air Cargo, the cargo airline of the CMA CGM shipping group, operates primarily out of Charles De Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris, France.

CMA CGM became the second company to sign up for Airbus’ new A350 freighter as the French logistics group continued its expansion in the global air cargo market. The shipping giant, which launched its CMA CGM Air Cargo business in 2021, signed a memorandum of understanding covering the purchase of four initial A350Fs. The commitment came just days after leasing giant Air Lease Corporation placed the first provisional order for seven of the type during the 2021 Dubai Air Show.

“As the launch customer for the cargo version of the A350, CMA CGM Air Cargo has opted for the most environmentally efficient aircraft on the market, reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainable transport,” said a company statement. “The A350F model stands out for a 20% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to its direct competitors. The A350F will also be the only large freighter capable of meeting the CO2 standards established by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), which will come into effect from 2028.”

To date, Airbus has confirmed orders for 55 A350Fs from airlines including Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and its latest customer, Starlux of Taiwan.

Dirk Daniel Mann / Shutterstock

Meanwhile, CMA GGM has announced that it will acquire three Boeing 777-200Fs, with the first aircraft due to arrive in June 2024. Two of the three aircraft will be dedicated to a new transpacific route connecting Asia to North America during the summer of 2024.

The new route will serve airports in Hong Kong, Chicago, and Seoul. The second aircraft will be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2024 and will connect mainland China to North America. Flights will be operated by CMA CGM’s partner airline Atlas Air. The third aircraft is set to arrive in 2025.

Currently, the CMA-CGM Air Cargo Group fleet consists of two Boeing 777-200Fs and three Airbus A330Fs, all of which are based at the carrier’s Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG) hub. 

The current 777F fleet operates twice-weekly flights between Europe and China, serving the major air cargo hubs in Hong Kong and Shanghai.

MBekir / Shutterstock

Of the three A330Fs, two are chartered by a third party, while the third operates connections between Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Mumbai (BOM) in India, and Guangzhou (CAN) in China three times per week.  

The CMA CGM Air Cargo website states that the company “offers a complete range of solutions for the transportation of sensitive products, such as hazardous goods, temperature-controlled cargo, perishables, live animals and high-value products”. 

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UPS requires over 300 pilots after winning US Postal Service contract from FedEx

Ian Molyneaux — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 11:08:48 +0000

United Parcel Service (UPS) needs to recruit more than 300 more pilots after signing a contract with the United States Postal Service (USPS) to become its new primary air cargo provider.

UPS was announced as the USPS’ new main partner on April 1, 2024, after FedEx lost out despite being the primary air cargo provider for over 20 years.

Industry publication Freight Waves reported that the new USPS contract will increase demand on UPS and new pilots are needed to manage the surge in work volume.

The Independent Pilots Association, which represents around 3,200 pilots at UPS, told Freight Waves that the human resources team at the parcel firm is currently recruiting.

“The Independent Pilots Association Executive Board was informed that UPS HR is resuming their pilot hiring process to account for the additional volume surge that will occur as the year progresses,” the union said in a statement.

It added: “The initial projected estimate for hiring is expected to be 300+ additional crew members, which is subject to adjustment once the network plan for the additional USPS volume is finalized.”

In 2023, UPS offered some of its pilots early retirement buyouts in response to falling demand for air cargo services.

Aero Crew News claimed that the company was offering early retirement severance to 157 Captains and 10 First Officers with a lump sum of $357,000.

UPS’ new contact with the USPS is scheduled to begin on September 30, 2024, for a five-and-a-half-year minimum base term.

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