(16 August 2022, 14:43 +07)
Qantas Freight has unveiled plans to increase
its domestic fleet with six Airbus A321 aircraft to meet growing
e-commerce demand.
The six A321P2F (Passenger to Freighter), which are expected to
progressively arrive between early calendar year 2024 and
mid-2026, will replace the long-term fleet of five Boeing 737
freighters that are approaching the end of their economic life.
Each A321P2F can carry 23 tonnes of cargo,
nine tonnes more than the older 737s, and are around 30 per cent
more fuel efficient per tonne of freight carried.
The airline currently has three A321P2Fs and replacing
the remaining 737 freighters with these newer aircraft will
simplify Qantas Freight’s fleet, bringing extra efficiency in training
and maintenance.
Qantas Freight's fire-resistant ULD
Qantas is also converting two widebody A330s to
freighters, one of which will be used on the domestic network and
will continue to supplement its fleet with wet-leased aircraft.
Qantas Freight had a record performance in the
first half of FY22 due to increased demand for e-commerce, higher
international yields driven by supply chain disruption, and
reduced capacity on passenger flights.
“Qantas Freight plays a vital role in Australia’s
supply chain and this investment will grow our operations so they
can support increased demand for next-day delivery,”
said Qantas Group CEO, Alan Joyce. “Qantas Freight has been one of the standout performers for
the group during the pandemic as Australians rapidly shifted to
online shopping. While some of that shift is temporary, demand
remains well-above pre-pandemic levels even with the lifting of
almost all COVID-related restrictions. This is one of the largest
ever investments in our domestic freight fleet, that will enable
Qantas Freight to capture more of that demand and will provide the
opportunity to help Freight further grow revenue and earnings. The
first three A321P2F have been a fantastic addition to our fleet
and operating a single-type of narrow body aircraft in the future
will enable us to generate further operational efficiencies and
significantly reduce emissions per tonne of freight flown.”
Qantas Freight's Fleet Plans

* One B737-300F was retired in July 2022 after
first entering service 36 years ago.
** Two A330s are currently undergoing conversion.
One will be used on the domestic network, and the other will join
Qantas’ international freight network.
Qantas Freight also operates a Boeing 767 and wet
leases two Boeing 747s from Atlas to connect Australia with key
international freight hubs.
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