Heathrow-airport hubbed freighter operator One Air has added its second aircraft following its launch earlier this year and is hoping to add a third aircraft early next year.
The converted Boeing 747-400 freighter has been acquired on a long-term lease and is a former Air Canada passenger aircraft which was later converted to a freighter for Air China.
Prior to joining One Air, it was in operation with Aerotranscargo.
Paul Bennett, chairman and chief executive of One Air, said: “We have enjoyed a positive start to commercial operations and strong interest from the international cargo market, which reinforces our view of the long-term potential for a British all-cargo airline.
"We are extremely proud to be operating the only Boeing 747 freighters on the UK register and to be offering the aircraft’s outstanding cargo capacity.
"Our second aircraft has now entered service and increases our capabilities further – and, subject to gaining the necessary regulatory approvals, our aim is to add a third 747-400F in first quarter 2024.
"We already have sufficient demand for a third aircraft, so our growth strategy at this stage is very much on track.”
The carrier took delivery of its first 747-400 - also converted - earlier this year and launched commercial operations in July.
Since then, the company has been flying charters between Europe and China/Hong Kong on behalf of freight forwarders and charter broker customers.
"The extra aircraft is also expected to offer some further ad hoc capacity for global charter services in addition to the regular Hong Kong-London charter operations," the company said.
Speaking to Air Cargo News earlier this year, chief operating officer Chris Hope said the carrier had also been awarded a two-year operating permit by the US Department of Transportation.
“Plus, there are a number of other countries where we are already operating to and have approvals for, including in Europe and beyond,” Hope said.
The airline is hoping to expand its flights to Hong Kong into a daily operation and is working to achieve a licence for long-term operations to China.
Looking further ahead, the carrier is aiming to add a fourth freighter although this is still in the planning stage.
“We do not want to prejudice our position in negotiations as we determine absolutely the best option for the airline, so we can’t say much more at this stage, but we hope to be able to share our plans very soon and we are really excited about the opportunities this will create for the future," said Hope.
He added: “We want to gear up now for future growth because we think there is an opportunity in the market and we think we have a capability to grow. We have a three- to five-year plan that is based on continued steady growth,” sai
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