newstodate.aero
Dec 04, 2013 (newstodate): Is Airbus ready to secure its position in the mid-size freighter segment?
According to Airbus' Cargo Global Market Forecast, mid-size freighters represent about 45 percent of the fleet in service and are increasingly used for regional express services and regional and long-haul general cargo operations.
-The mid-size segment is expected to grow to over 1,290 units by 2032, up from 744 units at the end of 2012. In doing so, this category will retain its dominant 45 per cent share of the world freighter fleet, the forecast reads.
However, Airbus abruptly scrapped its Airbus A320 conversion program in June 2011, leaving its launch customer West Atlantic behind with seven orders out of AerCap's launch order for 30 units.
Airbus later cited high residual value of even the oldest A320 aircraft as the main reason behind the program cancellation.
With the successful launch of the new Airbus A320neo to replace the existing A320 Classics, the time may again be ripe for Airbus to reconsider the A320 P2F program - or what?
-Regarding the possibility of an A320 P2F, Airbus believes there is a market for small jet conversions, and we are watching this market closely. Once timing is right we will decide on the appropriate next steps, says Martin Fendt, Airbus Media Relations.
Does this statement convey any information at all about Airbus' plans for a relaunch of the A320 converted freighter?
At least it does not indicate much attention or commitment to the issue..
According to Airbus' Cargo Global Market Forecast, mid-size freighters represent about 45 percent of the fleet in service and are increasingly used for regional express services and regional and long-haul general cargo operations.
-The mid-size segment is expected to grow to over 1,290 units by 2032, up from 744 units at the end of 2012. In doing so, this category will retain its dominant 45 per cent share of the world freighter fleet, the forecast reads.
However, Airbus abruptly scrapped its Airbus A320 conversion program in June 2011, leaving its launch customer West Atlantic behind with seven orders out of AerCap's launch order for 30 units.
Airbus later cited high residual value of even the oldest A320 aircraft as the main reason behind the program cancellation.
With the successful launch of the new Airbus A320neo to replace the existing A320 Classics, the time may again be ripe for Airbus to reconsider the A320 P2F program - or what?
-Regarding the possibility of an A320 P2F, Airbus believes there is a market for small jet conversions, and we are watching this market closely. Once timing is right we will decide on the appropriate next steps, says Martin Fendt, Airbus Media Relations.
Does this statement convey any information at all about Airbus' plans for a relaunch of the A320 converted freighter?
At least it does not indicate much attention or commitment to the issue..