17 Dec 2004

Air Hong Kong Confirms Order for Two Airbus Freighters

AHK Air Hong Kong Ltd. today announced it has confirmed options to buy two more Airbus 300-600 General Freighter aircraft, adding to the six already ordered by the airline, of which four are now in operation.

The additional aircraft, scheduled for delivery in May and June 2006, will enable the all-cargo carrier to expand its regional overnight parcels service, strengthening Hong Kong as an express cargo hub. Both aircraft will be powered by General Electric CF6-80C2 engines.

Air Hong Kong's A300-600F aircraft are unique in that they feature a loading system and a side door capable of handling large items of general freight in addition to small packages. The airline holds options to order two more.

Air Hong Kong currently operates overnight services for DHL to Tokyo, Osaka, Taipei, Singapore, Bangkok and Penang.

AHK Chief Operating Officer David Saechiu said: "Our aggressive fleet expansion to eight aircraft within two years will provide the necessary capacity we need to develop our regional express cargo network, strengthen Hong Kong's position as the region's leading air cargo hub and enhance the quality of service that we already provide to DHL. We are well positioned to continue growing."

Air Hong Kong is 60% owned by Cathay Pacific and 40% by DHL.

Cathay Pacific Airways
Corporate Communication Department