Nairobi, Kenya-headquartered freighter operator Astral Aviation has launched a new Boeing 767-300F all-cargo service linking Hong Kong to Brisbane, Australia.
The service is being operated on an ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance) basis on behalf of Australian airfreight carrier Aus Air Cargo.
According to Astra Aviation, the 767-300F, known for its versatility and payload capacity, is expected to carry general cargo, e-commerce shipments and perishables.
The new route represents “enhanced cargo capacity and flexibility for our partners”, noted Sanjeev Gadhia, chief executive of Astral Aviation.
“This service underscores our commitment to supporting Aus Air Cargo network and delivering seamless logistics solutions.”
Astral Aviation only introduced the 767-300 freighter to its inventory very recently part of plans to renew its fleet, expand its capacity and fly longer distances.
The Nairobi-based airline said in a LinkedIn post that it had dry-leased the aircraft, which has extended range capabilities and a payload capacity of 52 tons.
In addition to the 767-300F, Astral currently has a Boeing 767-200F and a Boeing 737-400F in its fleet.
Significant milestone
The collaboration and launch of the new service marks a “significant milestone in the airline’s expansion strategy, Aus Air Cargo said.
The new route enhances cargo connectivity between Asia and Australia, and Aus Air Cargo has plans to extend operations to Melbourne, Sydney and Perth in the coming months, said Satvir Kalsi, its chief executive.
“The launch of our Hong Kong-Brisbane route is a testament to our dedication to enhancing trade connectivity between Australia and Asia,” he declared.
He noted that the connection will “support Australian exporters by providing a seamless and efficient airfreight solution for perishable goods, while also preparing to expand our footprint across major Australian cities”.
Kalsi continued: “This new service is a welcome development for Australian exporters, offering faster access to lucrative Asian and Middle Eastern markets.”
Moreover: “Aus Air Cargo’s expansion will further strengthen Australia’s position as a leading supplier of premium perishable goods.”
Australian perishable exports include fresh seafood, meat, dairy and horticultural products, which can be flown to key markets in China and across Asia and the Middle East.
M&C Aviation has been appointed as general sales agent (GSA) to promote the capacity on the service out of Australia.
