Saudia Cargo, a leading global cargo carrier, announced the addition of an Airbus A330-300P2F cargo aircraft, MSN 1272, to its fleet under a wet lease agreement with ASL Aviation Holdings, a global aviation services company. This strategic expansion underscores both companies’ commitment to strengthening global air cargo capabilities and connectivity.
The aircraft arrived at Shannon Airport (SNN) in mid-June following P2F conversion, where it was painted in the Saudia cargo livery. Formerly registered as N810CM, the aircraft will operate for ASL Airlines Ireland as EI-LKD.
This is the first of two aircraft under this wet lease agreement. The initial A330-300P2F is expected to begin service with ASL Airlines Ireland in September 2025 before being delivered to Saudia Cargo in the fourth quarter. The second aircraft is also scheduled to arrive in Q4. This ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) lease agreement includes comprehensive operational support, such as dedicated crews, a robust maintenance program, and insurance.
The introduction of this aircraft marks the return of the A330F type to ASL Airlines Ireland’s operated fleet. The aircraft will join the airline’s global fleet, providing air cargo services on an extensive network of more than 50 regular destinations across Europe, North America, and Asia, supported by a fleet of 40 aircraft.
The A330-300P2F will complement ASL Airlines Ireland’s existing fleet of B737 and ATR72 freighters, offering cost-efficient new opportunities to air cargo customers in global markets. With its capability to move both express parcels and larger cargo, the aircraft can cover distances of up to 6,850 kilometres (3,700 nautical miles) and carry up to 62 tonnes (115,808 pounds) of revenue payload, with 26 pallets available on the main deck and a further 11 pallets (32 LD3) available in the lower hold.
Eng.Loay Mashabi, CEO and Managing Director of Saudia Cargo, said: “Expanding our capacity and global reach is a strategic imperative for Saudia Cargo, ensuring uninterrupted supply chains for our customers. The integration of this A330-300P2F, in partnership with ASL Aviation Holdings, will significantly support our network capabilities, enabling us to connect markets with greater agility and efficiency. This pivotal addition directly supports our vision to solidify our position as a leading global air cargo carrier and solidifies the Kingdom’s role as a global logistics hub.”
Mr.Dave Andrew, Chief Executive of ASL Aviation Holdings, said, “We are delighted to partner with Saudia Cargo to welcome an A330-300P2F to the ASL fleet. This partnership is a positive statement for ASL as we continue to strengthen and grow. The new A330-300P2F aircraft is ideal for Saudia Cargo’s express shipping and e-commerce services, providing a flexible solution to meet the diverse shipping needs of its customers and deliver reliable, high-quality cargo services.”
