Saudia Cargo has agreed a wet lease with ASL Aviation for two Airbus A330-300P2F freighters, in a move aimed at boosting global air cargo capacity and connectivity.

The first aircraft, converted from passenger to freighter configuration, will initially operate for ASL Airlines Ireland from September 2025 before being delivered to Saudia Cargo in the fourth quarter. The second A330-300P2F is also due to join before the end of the year.

Under the ACMI lease, ASL will provide full operational support, including crews, maintenance and insurance. The agreement also marks the return of the A330F type to ASL Airlines Ireland’s operated fleet.

The aircraft will serve a global network of more than 50 destinations across Europe, North America and Asia, complementing ASL’s existing Boeing 737 and ATR72 freighters. With capacity for up to 62 tonnes and a range of 6,850km, the type is capable of carrying both express parcels and larger cargo, with 26 pallets on the main deck and a further 11 pallets (32 LD3) in the lower hold.

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 solidifies the Kingdom’s role as a global logistics hub.”

Dave Andrew, chief executive of ASL Aviation, said: “We are delighted to partner with Saudia Cargo to welcome an A330-300P2F to the ASL fleet. This partnership is a positive statement for ASL as we continue to strengthen and grow. The new A330-300P2F aircraft is ideal for Saudia Cargo’s express shipping and e-commerce services, providing a flexible solution to meet the diverse shipping needs of its customers and deliver reliable, high-quality cargo services.”

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