MNG Airlines, the largest Turkish all-cargo operator, has placed a follow-on order with Airbus for two more A330- 200Fs to support its expanding cargo operations. These aircraft are in addition to the two firm orders for the A330-200F which the carrier placed in 2007, bringing its total orders for the type now to four aircraft.

According to Airbus, the A330F programme is on track with the first A330-200 Freighter now assembled and others nearing completion. First flight is anticipated later this year with the programme on track for certification, followed by first deliveries in 2010.

“We are pleased to add to our previous order for the A330-200F, so we can start implementing our growth strategy when the worldwide freighter market recovers from the recession,” said Mehmet Nazif Günal, founder and chairman of MNG Companies Group.

“We are fully convinced that the A330-200 Freighter aircraft, the newest member of the A330/A340 family, is the right aircraft to contribute to achieving our goals, and allow us to operate the most modern and efficient fleet of cargo aircraft in Turkey.”

The A330-200F offers two operational configurations depending on the planned mission, according to Airbus. The aircraft can carry up to 64 tonnes over 4,000 nautical miles / 7,400 km, or more than 69 tonnes up to 3,200 nautical miles / 5,930 km – non-stop.