Aero Capital Solutions and Smartlynx announce A321 freighter partnership

Aero Capital Solutions and Smartlynx announce A321 freighter partnership

Aero Capital Solutions (ACS) has announced the launch of its A321 freighter conversion programme, as a complement to its current 40-aircraft B737-800SF P2F programme. The A321F programme is being launched in partnership with SmartLynx Airlines (Smartlynx), one of the most experienced A321 freighter operators in the world. The addition of the programme further exemplifies ACS specialisation and expertise in the narrowbody freighter market.

The first four A321’s of the joint programme have already been initiated through sale lease-back between the parties, where ACS acts as a lessor and financier, while SmartLynx efficiently operates the aircraft after conversion completion.

Read more: AEI receives Brazilian STC approval for B737-800SF

Upon deliveries of the additional four freighters, the SmartLynx A321F fleet will reach up to 15 units. The cargo operator’s intended freighter fleet growth aligns with ACS’ expanding freighter fleet.

Read more: AEI to provide six B737-800SF conversions to Aero Capital Solutions

“ACS and SmartLynx have a long-established relationship surrounding passenger aircraft, and we’re excited to continue to work together as we expand our market-leading A321F capacity and work towards the fleet modernisation. The aircraft are highly efficient with lower operating cost and fuel burn advantage in comparison to the legacy aircraft, such as the B757, making them substantially more environmentally friendly. ACS’s unique mix of hands-on mid-life aircraft expertise, freighter conversion knowledge, and engine support is an excellent fit for SmartLynx,” SmartLynx CEO Zygimantas Surintas said.

“We are eager to break into the A321 market with SmartLynx being our kick-off customer. We deeply value our relationship with SmartLynx and we look forward to helping them grow their A321 freighter fleet,” Jason Barany, CEO and founder of ACS, said.

Picture of Edward Hardy

Edward Hardy

Having become a journalist after university, Edward Hardy has been a reporter and editor at some of the world's leading publications and news sites. In 2022, he became Air Cargo Week's Editor. Got news to share? Contact me on Edward.Hardy@AirCargoWeek.com

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