Saudia Cargo Expands Global Operations with Wet-Leased A330-300P2Fs from ASL

In a significant step to expand its international footprint and strengthen supply chain resilience, Saudia Cargo has partnered with ASL Aviation Holdings to introduce two Airbus A330-300P2F converted freighters into its fleet.

The move reflects the carrier’s commitment to positioning Saudi Arabia as a global logistics hub while enhancing its cargo network across key markets.

The first of the two aircraft, formerly registered as N810CM (MSN 1272), successfully completed its passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion earlier this year. It arrived at Shannon Airport, Ireland, in mid-June for repainting in Saudia Cargo’s livery.

Set to enter service with ASL Airlines Ireland under the registration EI-LKD this September, the aircraft will be officially delivered to Saudia Cargo in the fourth quarter of 2025. The second A330-300P2F is scheduled to join the fleet before the year’s end.

The agreement is structured under an ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) lease arrangement, meaning ASL Aviation Holdings will provide full operational support. The partnership also marks the return of the A330 freighter type to ASL Airlines Ireland’s fleet, complementing its existing Boeing 737 and ATR72 freighters.

With a payload capacity of up to 62 tonnes and a range of 6,850 km (3,700 nautical miles), the A330-300P2F offers remarkable flexibility for transporting both express parcels and larger cargo shipments.

It can carry 26 pallets on the main deck along with 11 pallets (32 LD3 containers) in the lower hold. These aircraft will serve Saudia Cargo’s global network, which spans more than 50 destinations across Europe, North America, and Asia.

Commenting on the development, Eng. Loay Mashabi, chief executive and managing director of Saudia Cargo, said: “Expanding our capacity and global reach is a strategic imperative for Saudia Cargo, ensuring uninterrupted supply chains for our customers.

The integration of this A330-300P2F, in partnership with ASL Aviation Holdings, will significantly support our network capabilities, enabling us to connect markets with greater agility and efficiency. This pivotal addition directly supports our vision to solidify our position as a leading global air cargo carrier and strengthens the Kingdom’s role as a global logistics hub.”

The addition of these advanced A330-300P2F freighters not only underscores Saudia Cargo’s long-term growth strategy but also reflects the airline’s commitment to bridging global markets, facilitating trade, and ensuring reliable logistics solutions for customers worldwide.