Raya Airways is optimistic about cargo demand over the short term as the Malaysian cargo airline signed a deal to lease four narrowbody converted freighters from ST Engineering.

The agreement includes two Airbus A320P2Fs and two A321P2Fs, which will be converted under Elbe Flugzeugwerke (EFW)’s programme, a joint venture between ST Engineering and Airbus. The first aircraft, an A321, is already at ST Engineering’s facility in Singapore for conversion, with expected delivery in the fourth quarter of 2022.

Once converted, each A321P2F will offer 27 tonnes, whilst each A320P2F will offer 21 tonnes, effectively Raya Airways’ combined payload by up to 96 tonnes.

Raya Airways’ chief commercial officer, MD Hidayat Rahim, said the added payload capacity will enable the regional operator to add major routes to further expand its footprint in the region.

“Our commitment to our clients is that wherever there are economic centres with robust future prospects, Raya Airways aims to be there,” he added.