Lufthansa boss Carsten Spohr announced a few days ago that narrowbodies in the cargo area could be purchased again. It is becoming apparent, however, that these will not be operated by Lufthansa Cargo, but will be operated by the sister company Cityline.
Lufthansa Cargo is investing in expanding its freight capacities. From the beginning of 2022, the company will offer its customers additional capacities in Europe through the permanent conversion of Airbus 321 passenger aircraft into freighters. The twin-engine medium-haul aircraft will be given large cargo doors so that containers can also be transported on the main deck. Initially, the conversion of two Airbus aircraft is planned. These aircraft are operated by Lufthansa CityLine on behalf of Lufthansa Cargo. You will be stationed in Frankfurt.
"Lufthansa Cargo wants to offer customers fast intra-European connections in the eCommerce segment. With the converted A321s, we are meeting our customers' increasing demand for same-day services and are further strengthening our dense network of global connections and our product range," said Dorothea von Boxberg, CEO of Lufthansa Cargo. "With the selected aircraft type, 28t can be transported per flight, which is considerably larger cargo volumes than in the bellies of short-haul aircraft. In addition to freight forwarders, integrators and postal companies, eCommerce providers will be customers for this service," continued von Boxberg.
“With over 60 years of experience in European air traffic, Lufthansa CityLine stands for reliable and efficient operations as an important partner in the Lufthansa Group. Flexibility in operation and speed in identifying and implementing new opportunities are the basis of our business. With these characteristics, we want to stand up for Lufthansa Cargo and its customers, ”says Steffen Harbarth, Managing Director of Lufthansa CityLine.
The Airbus A321s (A321P2F), which have been converted into cargo planes, offer a payload of 28 tons and a range of 3.500 kilometers. The conversion enables standardized freight pallets to be used on the main deck as well. The twin-engine Airbus A321 is one of the most versatile aircraft in its class and enables very efficient continental use.