Kazakhstan’s SCAT Airlines is set to enter the freighter market after signing up for a conversion through Boeing as demand to central Asia continues to rise.
The agreement will see Boeing modify a Boeing 767-300ER aircraft into a freighter configuration to enable the airline to launch general and express cargo operations.
The deal comes as the Kazakh government is prioritising rapid growth in the air cargo market and as other airlines are increasing their cargo operations into the country due to its capability as a regional hub.
The central Asia has seen a spate of freighter service additions in recent months as airlines look to shift Asia-Europe operations away from the Middle East due to the ongoing conflict.
Most recently, Cathay Cargo added a freighter operation to Astana. In June, Emirates SkyCargo announced it would begin flying to Almaty.
SCAT becomes the first Kazakh airline to operate a 767-300BCF.
“Demand for medium widebody cargo airplanes in Central Asia continues to grow,” Boeing said in a press release.
“As one of Kazakhstan’s leading airlines, SCAT will be well-positioned to make its entry into the freighter market with the 767-300BCF.”
The airline is hoping to target e-commerce and general freight traffic between Asia, the Middle East and European markets.
“Launching cargo operations opens a strategic new chapter for SCAT Airlines and Kazakhstan’s aviation industry,” said Vladimir Denisov, president of SCAT Airlines.
“With southern Kazakhstan’s hub potential, established partners in China, Türkiye and Europe, and Boeing performing the 767-300BCF conversion, this long-term programme directly supports the task set by the President of Kazakhstan to establish the country as a leading Eurasian aviation hub.”
The converted aircraft can carry up to 57 tonnes of cargo and has a range of 6,190 km. Its total volumetric capacity across both decks stands at 444 cu m, while the maindeck has 24 pallet positions and the lower deck can take 95.7 cu m in the lower hold and 12.2 cu m in the bulk compartment.
Lindsey Douglas, vice president of cabin, modifications, maintenance & digital services for Boeing Global Services, added: “The 767-300BCF is a proven performer in the cargo industry, and we are confident it will continue to deliver value for many years to come.”
