Air Hong Kong to acquire new A300-600 Freighter variant

Air Hong Kong (AHK) has signed a contract for six Airbus A300-600 Freighter aircraft as part of its fleet expansion programme. The all-cargo carrier, in which Cathay Pacific and DHL Worldwide Express hold a 70 per cent and 30 per cent stake respectively, has also taken options for a further  four aircraft of the type.

AHK is the launch customer for the A300-600F "General Freighter" variant, which differs from A300F4-600R aircraft currently offered by Airbus in that it has a loading system and side door capable of handling large items of general freight in addition to small packages.

The six wide-body aircraft are scheduled for delivery between 2004 and 2005.

AHK Air Hong Kong Chairman Tony Tyler said: "This is a great step forward in Air Hong Kong's development and its partnership with DHL. This very significant fleet expansion demonstrates Air Hong Kong's commitment to enhancing Hong Kong's position as Asia's leading air cargo hub, and to strengthening the scope and quality of service that we already provide DHL."

"With this order, Air Hong Kong launches a new variant of Airbus' most successful freighter, an endorsement of the strength of the Airbus product line," said Noël Forgeard, Airbus Chief Executive Officer. "The freighter market continues to grow for Airbus aircraft and this new variant is the result  of Airbus listening and reacting to market demands."