European cargo airline West Atlantic is set to become the launch operator of the A320 'passenger to freighter' (P2F) within the framework of a lease agreement with Amsterdam-based lessor, AerCap Holdings.
West Atlantic will take an initial three aircraft with deliveries scheduled to run between 2012 and mid-2013. The agreement also carries an option for West Atlantic to take a further four aircraft by 2015.
"The A320 P2F programme is an exciting project and we are delighted to be the launch operator for this new freighter," said West Atlantic's Sales & Operations Director, Russell Ladkin.
"The A320 provides significant competitive advantage over the established market competition and we are looking forward to building upon the success of this advanced aircraft."
West Atlantic operates scheduled and ad-hoc freight charter services for integrators, post and express parcels as well as feeder flights.
In 2008, AerCap signed a deal with Airbus Freighter Conversions for up to 30 A320 aircraft.
"AerCap's expansion into the freighter segment with the A320 P2F will further advance the diversification of our asset and customer base and provide residual value enhancement for older A320 aircraft," said AerCap's CEO, Klaus Heinemann.
AerCap, subsidiary AeroTurbine and Airbus Freighter Conversions will provide certain spares, crew training and line support to West Atlantic for the introduction of the converted aircraft into service. |
