Qatar Airways' latest aircraft delivery, its first dedicated cargo aircraft, is on display at Paris.
The Airbus A300-600R only entered service with the Gulf airline this month. The fast-growing airline plans to buy two additional dedicated freighters within two years. "Our first dedicated cargo aircraft is expected to generate significant business to the airline," said Akbar Al Baker, Qatar Airways chief executive.
"With the ability to offer a full payload of 42 tonnes, the freighter will become an integral part of Qatar Airways cargo strategy." At a cost of $10 million, the A300-600R was converted to a freighter at EADS Elbe Flugzeugweke in Germany.
The aircraft will help deliver expected cargo growth rates of 35% in the coming year. "The freighter will boost cargo capacity, enhance our relationship with shippers and forwarders and establish Doha as a regional cargo hub," said Al Baker.
The airline, which currently serves 40 destinations aims to increase that to 50 by the end of the year. It is expected to announce new aircraft orders at this Paris.
Source: Flight Daily News
