[aviation news]
ASL Airlines Australia, a leading independent charter and ACMI cargo airline under ASL Aviation Holdings, has announced the addition of its second Boeing 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF), to its growing fleet.
This strategic expansion strengthens ASLA’s position in the Australasian cargo market, addressing the region’s rising demand for reliable air freight solutions.
Boeing originally delivered this aircraft in May 1999. The narrowbody aircraft, serial number MSN 28595, was then converted to a freighter in 2022. It is currently undergoing final modifications and is expected to join ASLA’s operations in late July.
Boeing 737-800BCF Freighter Operations
The new B737-800BCF complements the airline’s first B737-800BCF, VH-CYK, which joined the fleet in May 2024. Notably, VH-CYK was the first 737BCF certified for operation in Australia, serving both domestic and international routes.
The Boeing 737-800BCF is ideally suited for medium-haul routes, capable of carrying up to 23 tonnes of cargo. It offers lower emissions compared to older aircraft models, aligning with ASLA’s commitment to sustainability.
The aircraft’s design leverages a platform familiar to regional operators, ensuring seamless integration with existing infrastructure.
Air freight is critical in addressing the unique logistical challenges of Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands.
With e-commerce booming and next-day delivery becoming standard, logistics providers increasingly rely on dedicated cargo solutions.
ASLA’s fleet expansion supports this demand, particularly for efficient transport between New Zealand and Australia.
Benefits Over Boeing 737-400 Classic
Stefan Oechsner, Managing Director of ASL Airlines Australiaexpressed gratitude to the global ASL team for their support in securing this second aircraft. “Leveraging the ASL Group’s expertise and network is key to driving our success,” Oechsner said.
“This addition strengthens our ability to meet the growing needs of our customers in the region.”
Compared to its predecessor, the B737-400 Classic, the B737-800BCF offers greater payload capacity, faster speeds, and longer range. It is also more fuel-efficient, reducing carbon emissions by 15%.
This aligns with ASL Aviation Holdings’ goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, reinforcing the company’s dedication to sustainable aviation.
ASL Aviation Holdings acquired Pionair Australia in 2023, rebranding it as ASL Airlines Australia later that year.
ASLA currently operates a fleet that includes B737-800BCF and BAe146 aircraft, providing cargo and ACMI services across Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands.
This fleet expansion enhances ASLA’s ability to deliver reliable, efficient services to its customers.
About ASL Aviation Holdings
ASL Aviation Holdings is a global leader in aviation services, fielding a fleet of 150 aircraft. It operates across eight cargo and passenger airlines in Europe, Australia, Asia, and South Africa.
Serving over 150 airports worldwide, the group is the largest operator of B737 freighters globally, specializing in express overnight freight for major clients.
This fleet expansion marks a further waypoint for ASL Airlines Australia, reinforcing its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the Australasian cargo market.
By combining advanced aircraft technology with a focus on sustainability, ASLA is positioning to support the region’s growing logistics demands while contributing to a greener future.
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