In a significant development within the cargo sector, WestJet, the Canadian airline, is facing a strategic shift with the resignation of Kirsten de Bruijn, Executive Vice President of Cargo. This move comes as WestJet evaluates the future of its cargo operations, specifically the winding down of its freighter activities.
WestJet, a prominent Canadian airline, is actively considering opportunities to sublease some of its Boeing 737-800BCF(Boeing Converted Freighter) aircraft. This strategic move aims to maximize the value and utilization of its freighter fleet amid fluctuating demand in cargo operations.
Rimbun Airlines, based in Indonesia, is strategically planning to enhance its fleet by incorporating B737 Classics rather than the newer B737 Next Generation (NG) freighters. This decision stems from current challenges associated with securing necessary engines and parts for the B737NG models.
France-based global logistics leader CMA CGM has officially submitted a bid to acquire the cargo operations of Air Belgium. A court ruling on the proposed acquisition is expected by 27 March 2025.
El Al (Israel) is considering the acquisition of a widebody cargo aircraft, with speculation pointing to a Boeing 777 as the preferred model. This move aligns with the airline’s expansion into the air freight sector, capitalizing on rising cargo demand and long-term market opportunities.
Sky Vision Airlines (Egypt) has taken delivery of its first Airbus A321-200P2F (Passenger-to-Freighter) conversion, serial 1707, on lease from Juniper Aviation Investments (Singapore). This aircraft marks a significant milestone in the airline’s expansion into dedicated cargo operations, leveraging the efficiency and payload capabilities of the A321-200P2F.
Air Hong Kong has announced plans to retire its last three Airbus A300-600F freighters in 2025, marking the next phase in its fleet modernization strategy. Originally set for an earlier transition to an all-A330F fleet, the airline has now adjusted its timeline, with the process expected to be completed a year later than planned.
Texel Air Australasia (New Zealand) has taken delivery of a Boeing 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF), serial number 36804, as part of its ongoing fleet expansion. The aircraft was delivered to Auckland and will be deployed across the carrier’s regional and international cargo network.
7 Air, a newly certified U.S. cargo carrier, has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining Part 121 regularly scheduled operator status from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The airline received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) today, granting it approval to conduct scheduled domestic cargo flights. Revenue operations are expected to commence in early March 2025.
Volga-Dnepr Group (Russia) has initiated a lawsuit against Canadian authorities over the sanctions and seizure of its An-124-100 aircraft in Toronto. The aircraft, which has been grounded in Canada since sanctions were imposed, is now at the center of a legal and diplomatic dispute.
