Kenyan airline Astral Aviation has enabled, through the provision of aircraft, the launch of a new airfreight operator, Suid Cargo Airlines, to commence with non-scheduled flights from OR Tambo International Airport in the second quarter of 2023.
This emerged last week as the “air cargo Africa 2023” conference wrapped up proceedings at Emperor’s Palace in Kempton Park.
According to a report published during the weekend, Astral will initially lease a Boeing 727-200F to Suid.
The new airline will, however, also have charter access on Astral’s 747-400F and Boeing 757F.
Despite low volumes at the moment, Suid is optimistic about its immediate future prospects.
Its chief executive, Thomas Honiball, said the airline had its sights set on acquiring its own aircraft by 2024.
Early acquisitions will include narrow bodies, namely the Airbus 320F and Boeing 737-800F.
Additionally, it is envisioned that Embraer 190 Freighters will be added to Suid’s fleet by 2025.
Astral CEO Sanjeev Gadhia said if all goes according to plan, Suid should be able to expand its service across the sub-Saharan region, including flights to Asia, Europe and the Middle East.
Perhaps most exciting of all is Suid’s intention to offer a unique port-to-air transhipment product that will include a network of 20 African countries.
