ACIA Aero Leasing (ACIA), a leading provider of regional aircraft leasing and lease management services and solutions, announced the delivery of two ATR 72-212 large cargo door (ATR 72 LCD) freighters to leading Australian Fly-in-Fly-out (FIFO) and cargo air charter operator Aerlink.
“Aerlink took delivery of the first ATR 72 LCD in January 2024 with the second aircraft arriving in May 2024,” says a release from ACIA. “The aircraft will be operated for Qantas on an Australia Post contract. These aircraft bring the total number of ATR aircraft leased from ACIA to Aerlink to four.”
Mark Dunnachie, Senior Vice President, Commercial, ACIA says: “This is an exciting transaction for Aerlink that will further bolster its diversified fleet of aircraft, leveraging ACIA’s track record of conversions across the ATR 72 regional aircraft family. Our ongoing collaboration with Aerlink will further cement the carrier’s leading market position as Australia’s only operator of ATR aircraft and greatly enhance the freight and cargo operations of Qantas, fulfilling a crucial contract for Australia Post.”
Ann Elliott, CEO, Aerlink adds: “The ATR 72 LCD presents a significant opportunity for Aerlink, allowing us to diversify our offering in Australia and the wider region, which is evident in our ability to secure contracts with Qantas and Australia Post. We’re delighted to continue our relationship with ACIA and expand our portfolio of leased ATR aircraft from them. In today’s supply challenged environment, they have delivered a high quality aircraft on time for our contract commencement.”
ACIA, a subsidiary of ACIA Aero Capital, manages a portfolio of 70 regional passenger and freighter aircraft on lease to operators in more than 21 countries globally, the release added.
Mick Mooney,Chief Executive Officer, ACIA says: “We see strong demand for regional freighters, especially the ATR 72 family, because of the type’s ability to serve remote regions and challenging airfields. ACIA continues to be the leader in turboprop freighter conversions, and we expect to be at the forefront meeting this market demand into the future. Aerlink continues to be a key customer for ACIA and we’re delighted to continue building our relationship with the Aerlink team and expanding our leased fleet with them.”
