US freighter operator Kalitta Air has taken delivery of the first of two leased 747-400F factory freighters from GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS), an Ireland-based aviation leasing and financing company.
GECAS said that the aircraft delivery marked “a new milestone in the decade-long relationship of the two companies”.
While GECAS has previously provided debt financing to Kalitta on several 747-400s (both factory and converted freighters), this delivery is the first aircraft on lease to Kalitta from GECAS, adding capacity to Kalitta Air’s existing fleet of more than 15 widebody freighters.
“Based on our relationship and its continued growth,” said Chris Damianos, GECAS’ executive VP & manager specialty markets, adding: “GECAS is pleased to transition these 747-400Fs to Kalitta.”
Airline founder and chief executive Conrad Kalitta said: “GECAS has been very supportive of Kalitta Air as we have renewed our fleet. As a trusted partner, I value GECAS’ focus on the air cargo sector.”
