SmartLynx Airlines has reinforced its freight transportation capabilities by adding new cargo aircraft to its fleet.
On March 8, 2022, SmartLynx Airlines announced that it had signed an agreement with Air Transport Services Group, an American company that provides aircraft leasing and air cargo transportation service, for the lease of six Airbus A330-300 P2F converted freighters. The new planes will be leased to the carrier for six years.
“The introduction of the A330-300 is a logical step and one which creates relevant synergies with the rest of our fleet – A330 Pax [passenger, ed.-] and A321F [freight, ed.-] units – and as an aircraft which will see increased popularity in a post-Covid environment.” SmartLynx CEO Zygimantas Surintas said in a statement.
The CEO also revealed that the agreement is part of SmartLynx Airlines’ fleet modernization plan, where the carrier aims to expand its cargo capacity and the efficiency of its freight transportation services. The new freighters will also reflect the airline’s commitment to operating “a modern, and environmentally-friendly fleet”.
“This latest introduction will offer our customers greater flexibility while also delivering on our commitment to offering the latest and most economical aircraft on the market,” said Surintas.
The converted A330-300 freighter has a maximum structural payload of up to 61 tons and can fly up to 6,660 km (3,600 nm) without requiring a refueling stop.
The first of the six A330-300 P2F freighters are scheduled to join the SmartLynx fleet in 2023.
