Spanish carrier Futura International Airways will launch its new all-cargo venture in May with a daily Boeing 737-300F service between mainland Spain and the Canary Islands.
Futura has leased two 737-300s from US lessor RPK Capital, to be converted into freighters by Pemco Aviation Group. The new cargo carrier, yet to be named, was set up by Futura in conjunction with an unnamed business partner and will be based in the Canary Islands. Futura says the freight carrier will be run independently, but will have “full management and operational support” from the airline.
Palma de Mallorca-based Futura plans to increase the start-up’s fleet to as many as five aircraft within three years. The first converted 737-300F will be delivered on 1 May, with the second scheduled for delivery in August.
Futura is 65%-owned by Spanish investment fund Corpfin Capital, while Ireland’s Aer Lingus holds a 20% stake. The remainder of the carrier is owned by its employees.
KERRY EZARD / LONDON
Source: Flight International
