Lufthansa Cargo permanently deploys two A321 as freighters

Lufthansa Cargo permanently deploys two converted Airbus A321 as full freighters. The medium-haul aircraft will be used on continental routes in Europe. The planes will receive cargo doors to enable the transport of containers on the main deck. The freighters will be operated by Lufthansa CityLine.

(Frankfurt/Main) Lufthansa Cargo is investing in the expansion of its cargo capacities. Starting in early 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 receive large cargo doors to allow for the transport of containers on the main deck. Initially, the conversion of two Airbus aircraft is planned. These planes will be operated by Lufthansa CityLine on behalf of Lufthansa Cargo. They will be stationed in Frankfurt.

Growth for cross-border eCommerce shipments is projected at approximately 20% per year for the next five years. Consumers expect increasingly shorter delivery times for their ordered goods. This also increases the demand for air connections in air freight within Europe.

Demand for Same Day Services

“Lufthansa Cargo aims to offer customers fast intra-European connections in the eCommerce segment. With the converted A321, we meet the growing demand from our customers for Same Day services and further strengthen our dense network of global connections as well as our product offerings,” said Dorothea von Boxberg, CEO of Lufthansa Cargo. “With the chosen aircraft model, 28 tons can be transported per flight, which is significantly 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 offering,” von Boxberg continued.

“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 operations and speed in identifying and implementing new opportunities are the foundation of our business. With these qualities, we want to serve Lufthansa Cargo and its customers,” said Steffen Harbarth, Managing Director of Lufthansa CityLine.

Payload of 28 tons

The converted Airbus A321 (A321P2F) offers a payload of 28 tons with a range of 3,500 kilometers. The conversion allows for the use of standardized cargo pallets 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 operations.

Photo: © Lufthansa Cargo