ASL Airlines Australia has leased its second 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) to operate on routes across the Tasman Sea between Australia and New Zealand.
The aircraft, MSN 28595, will join ASL Airlines Australia’s fleet in late July, 14 months after the airline added its first 737-800BCF.
”ASL Airlines Australia is proud to announce the lease of our second Boeing 737-800BCF (MSN 28595), as we continue to grow our dedicated cargo fleet across Australasia,” said the airline in a recent LinkedIn post.
”Originally delivered by Boeing in 1999 and converted to freighter configuration in 2022, this aircraft will soon be flying key routes across the Tasman between Australia and New Zealand.
”With capacity for 23 tonnes and lower emissions than previous-generation aircraft, it’s a perfect fit for the demands of today’s fast-moving logistics landscape.
"As e-commerce and next-day delivery expectations continue to rise, ASL Airlines Australia are committed to investing in capacity, reliability and sustainability."
ASL Airlines said in a LinkedIn post today: "Congratulations to ASL Airlines Australia on the expansion of its fleet with the lease of a second B737-800BCF!
"This aircraft joins VH-CYK, ASL Airlines Australia’s first B737-800BCF, and supports ongoing growth, particularly between New Zealand and Australia."
As well as its 737-800BCFs, the airline operates British Aerospace 146-200 and British Aerospace 146-300 aircraft. According to data from Planespotters, these aircraft are configured for cargo operations.
ASL Airlines Australia was formerly known as Pionair Australia. Ireland-based ASL Aviation acquired Pionair in 2023 and rebranded it the same year to align with other ASL units.
The purchase allowed ASL to expand into the Australian and Oceania markets
The airline provides night freight services on the east coast of Australia, serving Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Rockhampton, Mackay, Townsville and Cairns. Operations are performed for Qantas Freight on behalf of FedEx and Australia Post.
It has five main bases in Australia – Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and Cairns – and has a focus on the express and e-retail sectors.
