Airbus has launched a new air cargo service using its unique BelugaST fleet to offer freight companies and other potential customers a solution to their outsized freight transport needs.

The new service—Airbus Beluga Transport—will target a variety of sectors, including space, energy, military, aeronautic, maritime and humanitarian sectors.

The first mission took place at the end of 2021 with a delivery from Airbus Helicopters’ manufacturing site in Marignane to Kobe in Japan for an undisclosed customer. Beluga #3 stopped to refuel at Warsaw (Poland), Novosibirsk (Russia) and Seoul (Korea).

“The Beluga’s wider cross-section will open up new markets and new logistical possibilities for customers,” said Phillippe Sabo, head of ATI and air oversize transport at Airbus.

“In the case of loading helicopters—not having to dismantle them first—really is a plus. Similarly, the largest commercial aircraft engines can be accommodated in a fully-dressed configuration.”

Airbus has five BelugaST transporters in its fleet, which has served its logistics for large aircraft sections. The aircraft manufacturer plans to replace these with six new-generation BelugaXL, eventually handing over the older transporters to a subsidiary airline with its own air operator certificate (AOC) and staff.

To maximise the BelugaST’s turnaround capability, the company is developing new loading techniques and equipment, including an automated on-board cargo loader (OBCL) for missions where a loading/unloading platform is not available at the origin or destination airport.