Air Canada performs 4,000th cargo-only flight

Air Canada has operated 4,000 all-cargo flights since launching into the cargo-only-flight business in March of 2020.

The milestone was reached with flight of AC 7227 — operated with a B777-300 — from Toronto to Lima. The flight carried an assortment of freight from around the world including pharmaceuticals, water purifying equipment and vehicle parts.

Lucie Guillemette, executive vice president and chief commercial officer, said: “Air Canada Cargo has emerged as an outstanding performer during the Covid-19 crisis and was a key player in transporting medical equipment including PPE to Canada early on.

“It is impressive that the cargo team re-engineered its business model and network for cargo-only flights in March and has now successfully operated 4,000 such flights onboard both mainline widebody aircraft, as well as seven transformed widebody aircraft enabling cargo transport in the cabin.

“These initiatives have helped solidify our ability to meet heightened demand for air cargo capacity globally and have contributed to the growth of Air Canada’s successful cargo division at an unprecedented pace. This ability to quickly pivot exemplifies Air Canada’s commitment to innovate and seize opportunities.”

Since the start of the pandemic, Air Canada Cargo has transported a wide range of goods on its cargo-only flights, including PPE for frontline healthcare workers.

The carrier said that it had been working closely with freight forwarders to prepare to ship and distribute Covid-19 vaccines.

• Air Canada names Berry as VP cargo

• Air Canada Cargo signs up to combat illegal wildlife trafficking

• Air Canada cargo revenues stronger than passenger for the first time