Saudia Cargo Boosts Fleet with Two Airbus A330-300P2F Freighters
Saudia Cargo, a global cargo carrier, has further expanded its fleet by adding two Airbus A330-300P2F aircraft. The two freighters were acquired through a wet lease agreement with ASL Aviation Holdings, a leading aviation services provider.
This move highlights both companies’ focus on boosting global air cargo connectivity and operational efficiency.
The first newly acquired aircraft previously touched down at Shannon Airport (SNN) in mid-June. Identified as MSN 1272, the aircraft landed after undergoing the Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) conversion.
It was repainted in Saudia Cargo’s distinctive livery, transitioning from its previous registration, N810CM. The registration was changed to EI-LKD, under ASL Airlines Ireland’s operation.
Deployment of A330-300 Freighters
This aircraft is the first of two planned additions under the wet lease deal. The second freighter is expected to join in the fourth quarter of 2025.
The initial A330-300P2F will begin operations with ASL Airlines Ireland in September 2025 before officially joining Saudia Cargo’s fleet later in the year.
The wet lease agreement, known as ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance), provides comprehensive support, including dedicated flight crews, a thorough maintenance program, and full insurance coverage.
This ensures seamless integration and reliable performance for Saudia Cargo’s operations.
The A330-300P2F also marks the return of this aircraft type to ASL Airlines Ireland’s fleet, which currently operates 40 aircraft. These are deployed across a network spanning over 50 destinations in Europe, North America, and Asia.
The addition complements ASL’s existing fleet of B737 and ATR72 freighters, offering new opportunities for cost-effective air cargo solutions.
With a range of up to 6,850 kilometers (3,700 nautical miles) and a payload capacity of 62 tonnes (115,808 pounds), the A330-300P2F can accommodate 26 pallets on the main deck and 11 pallets (32 LD3 containers) in the lower hold.
This makes it ideal for transporting both express parcels and larger cargo, meeting diverse customer needs.
Eng. Loay Mashabi, CEO and Managing Director of Saudia Cargo, emphasized the strategic importance of this expansion. “Adding the A330-300P2F to our fleet strengthens our global reach and supports uninterrupted supply chains for our customers.”
“Partnering with ASL Aviation Holdings enhances our network’s agility and efficiency, aligning with our vision to remain a leading global air cargo carrier. This addition also reinforces Saudi Arabia’s role as a key logistics hub.”
Dave Andrew, Chief Executive of ASL Aviation Holdings, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Saudia Cargo and welcome the A330-300P2F to our fleet.”
“This aircraft is perfect for express shipping and e-commerce, offering flexible and reliable solutions to meet Saudia Cargo’s diverse customer demands. This partnership strengthens our growth and commitment to high-quality cargo services.”
Conclusion
This strategic collaboration between Saudia Cargo and ASL Aviation Holdings not only boosts operational capacity but also enhances service reliability for global markets.
By integrating the A330-300P2F, Saudia Cargo is well-positioned to meet the growing demands of e-commerce and express shipping while solidifying its leadership in the air cargo industry.