Hong Kong Airlines becomes new operator of A330-200F

(September 6, 2010) -- Hong Kong Airlines has become the first operator of the new A330-200F freighter in East Asia, following the delivery of the first of three aircraft on long term lease from global aircraft lessor Aircastle Limited. The three A330-200F freighters will be operated on services linking Hong Kong with destinations across Asia, as well as to the Middle East and Europe.

"The A330-200F will enable Hong Kong Airlines to enter the dedicated cargo market with the most efficient aircraft available today in its class," said Yang Jian Hong, President, Hong Kong Airlines. "With our new freight services we will be able to complement our fast-growing passenger network as we work to build Hong Kong Airlines as one of the leading carriers in the Asian region."

"We are pleased to capitalise on the strong recovery in the air cargo market with the delivery of the first freighter aircraft in our A330 programme," commented Ron Wainshal, Chief Executive Officer of Aircastle. "The A330-200F's extended payload range and low operating costs make it the best aircraft in its class. This is the first of three aircraft from our order stream committed to Hong Kong Airlines and an important addition to Aircastle's diversified portfolio of modern aircraft."

"This delivery reflects the confidence of both the airline and investor market in the A330-200F, said John Leahy, Airbus Chief Operating Officer, Customers."The A330-200F marks a step change for cargo operators, bringing unrivalled levels of efficiency to the mid-size freighter market. We are extremely pleased that both Hong Kong Airlines and Aircastle are among the launch partners for the programme."

Source : Airbus, an EADS N.V. company (Paris: EAD.PA)