DHL Express has become the first operator to take delivery of the A330-300 Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) converted aircraft from Elbe Flugzeugwerke (EFW).
The aircraft programme, launched in 2012, is a collaboration between ST Aerospace, Airbus and their joint venture, EFW.
The A330P2F, available as a -200 or larger -300, is designed for international express B2B and e-commerce cargo, which have a higher volume and lower density, and the aircraft can carry up to 62 metric tonnes over 3,650 nautical miles while offering 20 per cent more cargo volume and lower cost per tonne than other aircraft with a similar range.
DHL Express senior vice president for global air fleet management, Geoff Kehr says the company is very excited to bring the first A330-300P2F into service, saying: “The first aircraft is scheduled to strengthen our Asia Pacific air network, bringing added capacity and increased efficiency to a market where we are seeing dynamic express volume growth.”
EFW chief executive officer, Dr Andreas Sperl says: “This delivery, which marks a milestone in EFW´s history, also showcases the synergy formed by the deep operational and engineering expertise between EFW and parent company, ST Aerospace.”
“As the most modern converted freighter in the industry, the A330-300 P2F will support operators well with Fly-By-Wire-technology and 26 full container positions in the upper cargo deck.”
ST Aerospace president, Lim Serh Ghee adds: “The smooth process in attaining EASA’s STC reflects the strength & quality in the engineering and design of the PTF solution, as well as our close working relationship with the aircraft original equipment manufacturer (OEM), Airbus and the aircraft conversion expertise of EFW.”
“The delivery of our first A330-300P2F is a good start to the conversion programme. We are confident the freighter will serve DHL well, and we look forward to the next redelivery in early 2018.”
DHL Express has firm orders for eight A330-300P2Fs with options for another 10.
