MASKargo seeks replacement freighters

MASKargo is seeking leases on widebody freighters to replace its four Boeing 747-200Fs wet leased from Air Atlanta Icelandic.

It is understood that the lease on the four 747s expires in April 2010, with MASkargo managing director Shahari Sulaiman telling Air Transport Intelligence that the cargo carrier is hoping to make a decision before then, with options to wet or dry lease Airbus A330Fs or Boeing 747-400Fs being examined.

Many cargo carriers have been particularly hit hard by the global economic crisis, with many parking their widebody fleets due to the downturn in demand. Reports claim that even new aircraft such as Boeing 747-400ERFs and 777Fs are also being delivered, but some carriers are choosing to park them, while many older aircraft such as 747-200 which were parked during the fuel price spike have not yet returned to service.

MASKargo also recently announced that it has formed an alliance with the Hainan Airlines Group to serve a broader network, particularly through Europe and within China.