Air Canada Leasing Two Boeing 767 Freighters to Ethiopian Airlines
Air Canada Leases Two Boeing 767-300 Freighters to Ethiopian Airlines Cargo
Air Canada has made headlines by leasing two Boeing 767-300 freighters to Ethiopian Airlines Cargo. This strategic move is set to enhance Ethiopian Airlines’ already robust cargo operations. The first aircraft, registered C-GHXI, is currently being prepared for its new role with the African carrier, while the second freighter, C-GXHM, is following closely behind in its preparations.
Details of the Boeing 767-300 Freighters
The two Boeing 767-300 freighters have been in storage at Kansas City International Airport (KCI) since Air Canada retired them from service in April 2024. Unlike many cargo aircraft, these freighters are factory-built Boeing 767-300F models, ensuring optimal performance for cargo operations.
- Aircraft Details:
- First Aircraft: C-GHXI ferried from Kansas City to Toronto on November 12, 2024.
- Second Aircraft: C-GXHM underwent a successful test flight on December 3, 2024, before heading to Toronto.
According to AviationA2Z, Ethiopian Airlines Cargo, the dedicated cargo division of Ethiopian Airlines, will integrate these two freighters into its existing fleet. This will bolster its current lineup, which includes four Boeing 737-800Fs, three Boeing 767-300Fs, and 11 Boeing 777Fs, raising the total to an impressive 20 dedicated freighters. Ethiopian Airlines also utilizes its passenger fleet to transport substantial cargo volumes.
Ethiopian Airlines Cargo: A Leader in African Air Freight
Ethiopian Airlines Cargo operates one of the largest air cargo networks in Africa, playing a crucial role in connecting the continent with major global markets across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. The addition of these freighters will enhance its capacity to meet the growing demand for air cargo services.
Background on the Boeing 767-300 Fleet
Initially acquired by Air Canada in June 2022, these freighters were intended to expand the airline’s cargo operations following a post-pandemic rebound. However, as market demand cooled, both aircraft were temporarily retired and stored in Kansas City. Fortunately, their future looks promising as they find a new home with Ethiopian Airlines Cargo in Addis Ababa.
As Air Canada reassesses the future of its Boeing 767 fleet, it has also announced plans to reintroduce two retired Boeing 767-300ERs into passenger service starting in February 2025. The carrier faced several delivery delays with new Boeing 787s, prompting this decision to bring older aircraft back into operation.
Conclusion: Future of Air Canada’s Boeing 767 Fleet
The leasing of these Boeing 767-300 freighters marks a significant development for both Air Canada and Ethiopian Airlines Cargo. With the redeployment of its passenger 767s, Air Canada aims to adapt to changing market conditions while Ethiopian Airlines strengthens its cargo capabilities.
For more insights into the air cargo industry and updates on fleet developments, feel free to explore our related articles or share your thoughts in the comments below.
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