ASL Airlines Australia (ASLA) has announced the introduction of its first 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) to its fleet. The aircraft is also the first 737 BCF certified to operate in Australia.

With its ability to move both express parcels and larger cargo over a range up to 3,750km, ASLA says the freighter offers new opportunities to air cargo customers in the Australian domestic and international markets.

The next-generation B737-800BCF can carry up to 23.9 tonnes of revenue payload, with 5,000 cu ft available on the main deck and a further 1,500 cu ft available in the bulk cargo hold.

It is also more fuel efficient and emits 15% less carbon than its predecessor, the B737-400 Classic, supporting ASL’s commitment to sustainability and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

ASLA, part of ASL Aviation Holdings, says it has added the B737-800BCF to its fleet following a revision to its Air Operators Certificate (AOC) by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority of Australia (CASA). This followed a 12-month project which saw the delivery of the aircraft to the airline in February 2024, issuance of a Certificate of Airworthiness in March, and a successful AOC variation proving flight under CASA oversight in April.

ASLA says it is already in discussion with customers and expects to operate its first commercial revenue flights soon.

The new B737-800BCF forms part of ASL Aviation Holdings’ B737-800 Boeing conversion programme which includes slots for 40 aircraft to be converted and placed into operation in ASL’s airlines in Ireland, France, Belgium, Thailand, India and now Australia.

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