ACIA Aero Leasing (ACIA) announced the delivery of two ATR 72-212 Large Cargo Door (ATR 72 LCD) freighters to Australian FIFO and cargo air charter operator Aerlink. Aerlink took delivery of the first ATR 72 LCD in January 2024, with the second aircraft arriving in May. The aircraft will be operated for Qantas on an Australia Post contract. These aircraft bring the total number of ATR aircraft leased from ACIA to Aerlink to four.
“This is an exciting transaction for Aerlink that will further bolster its diversified fleet of aircraft, leveraging ACIA’s track record of conversions across the ATR 72 regional aircraft family,” explained Mark Dunnachie, ACIA’s Senior Vice President, Commercial. “Our ongoing collaboration with Aerlink will further cement the carrier’s leading market position as Australia’s only operator of ATR aircraft and greatly enhance the freight and cargo operations of Qantas, fulfilling a crucial contract for Australia Post.”
“The ATR 72 LCD presents a significant opportunity for Aerlink, allowing us to diversify our offering in Australia and the wider region, which is evident in our ability to secure contracts with Qantas and Australia Post,” said Ann Elliott – Aerlink’s CEO. “We’re delighted to continue our relationship with ACIA and expanding our portfolio of leased ATR aircraft from them. In today’s ‘supply challenged’ environment, they have delivered a high-quality aircraft on time for our contract commencement.”
The ATR 72 LCD converted freighters are a good match for Aerlink’s cargo operations. With excellent performance and higher capacity cargo uplift even on shorter operating field, these aircraft will enable Aerlink to land at smaller, unpaved runways, inaccessible by larger freighter aircraft, across Australia Post’s route network. ATR turboprop aircraft are also recognized as the most eco-friendly regional aircraft, delivering maximum operational flexibility and environmental efficiency.
“We see strong demand for regional freighters, especially the ATR 72 Family, because of the type’s ability to serve remote regions and challenging airfields. ACIA continues to be the leader in turboprop freighter conversions, and we expect to be at the forefront meeting this market demand into the future,” said Mick Mooney, ACIA’s Chief Executive Officer. “Aerlink continues to be a key customer for ACIA and we’re delighted to continue building our relationship with the Aerlink team and expanding our leased fleet with them.”
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