PacAvi, the aircraft sales, leasing and conversion group, is partnering with Guangzhou Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Co (Gameco) to address the Chinese and Asian markets for Airbus A320 and A321 passenger-to-freighter conversions.

PacAvi Group chief executive Stephan Hollmann said: "We view Gameco as an exciting addition to our global network of MRO (maintenance, repair and overhaul) and engineering partners.

“We continue to make swift and steady progress toward the commercial introduction of A320 family freighters in 2016 and 2017. Gameco is an ideal partner to address the world's fastest growing markets."

Peter Kamenz, director of international sales and marketing at Gameco, said: "The cargo and express markets in China and elsewhere in Asia are positioned for the kind of swift growth that Europe and the US experienced over the last several decades. This is a perfect fit for Airbus A320 and A321 freighters.

"They represent highly technologically advanced products at the right prices for our marketplace. The timing could not be better."

Gameco is a joint venture between China Southern Airlines and Hutchison Whampoa Ltd. China Southern operates over 600 aircraft including the largest Airbus fleet in China.