NAIROBI, KENYA – July 20, 2025 – Freedom Airline Express, a prominent Kenyan carrier, is set to significantly enhance its air cargo capabilities with the securing of an Airbus A321 freighter on an Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance (ACMI) lease agreement. This strategic move, which sees an A321-200P2F joining its fleet from Egypt-based Sky Vision Airlines, marks a substantial upgrade for the airline and is poised to boost cargo movements across East Africa and beyond.
The ACMI lease, often referred to as a “wet lease,” means that Sky Vision Airlines will provide not only the aircraft but also the flight crew, handle all maintenance, and ensure comprehensive insurance coverage. Freedom Airline Express will be responsible for operational costs such as fuel, airport fees, and ground handling. This arrangement provides Freedom Airline Express with immediate access to a modern, efficient freighter without the long-term capital commitment of purchasing an aircraft.
Expanding Cargo Horizons with the A321 Freighter
The Airbus A321-200P2F (Passenger-to-Freighter) is a highly capable narrowbody freighter known for its excellent fuel efficiency and a payload capacity of up to 27 tons. Its containerized main deck cargo capability makes it particularly well-suited for time-sensitive shipments in high-density, short- to medium-haul markets. For Freedom Airline Express, this means:
- Increased Capacity: The A321F offers a significant boost in cargo volume compared to the airline’s existing fleet, allowing them to carry larger and more diverse freight.
- Enhanced Efficiency: Modern freighters like the A321 are more fuel-efficient, contributing to lower operating costs and a reduced environmental footprint.
- Greater Flexibility: The new aircraft will enable Freedom Airline Express to cater to a wider range of cargo demands, from e-commerce parcels to general goods, and serve new routes.
- Reliable Service: By wet-leasing a well-maintained aircraft with experienced crew, Freedom Airline Express can ensure consistent and reliable cargo delivery.
The initial agreement with Sky Vision Airlines for one A321 freighter is for a twelve-month period, with operations commencing on August 1, 2025. This strategic partnership signals Freedom Airline Express’s ambition to increase its ACMI activity and potentially expand its freighter fleet further.
Kenya’s Booming Air Cargo Market
This development comes at a time when Kenya’s air cargo industry is experiencing robust growth. Recent data indicates a substantial 23% rise in digital bookings over the past five months, highlighting the increasing demand for efficient air cargo solutions. As a major logistics hub in East Africa, Kenya plays a crucial role in regional trade, handling a significant volume of air freight, including high-value goods like horticultural products.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) reported that African airlines saw a 22.0% year-on-year demand growth for air cargo in February 2024, the strongest among all regions, with intra-Africa trade showing a remarkable 42.3% year-on-year growth. This surge underscores the need for increased and more efficient cargo capacity across the continent.
Freedom Airline Express’s investment in the A321 freighter positions it well to capitalize on this burgeoning demand, offering enhanced connectivity and supporting the growth of various industries across Kenya and the broader African continent. As global supply chains continue to evolve, the ability to move goods quickly and reliably by air remains paramount, and Freedom Airline Express is stepping up to meet that challenge.
