The Cathay Group is continuing to strengthen its cargo operations with Air Hong Kong signing a long-term lease agreement for an Airbus A330P2F converted freighter. The move follows Cathay Cargo’s recent order for two additional Airbus A350F freighters and forms part of a broader strategy to expand capacity, enhance network flexibility and reinforce Hong Kong’s position as the world’s busiest air cargo hub.
The additional aircraft will be operated by Air Hong Kong, the Cathay Group’s dedicated all-cargo airline, primarily serving routes across the Chinese Mainland and other regional destinations on behalf of Cathay Cargo. The freighter will provide extra capacity for customers while supporting the continued growth of regional cargo services.
The aircraft is scheduled to join Air Hong Kong’s fleet in the fourth quarter of 2026 under a long-term lease agreement with Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) through its leasing subsidiary, Cargo Aircraft Management (CAM). Once delivered, it will join Air Hong Kong’s existing fleet of 14 A330 freighters, which currently provide express cargo services for DHL Express.
Air Hong Kong Chief Operating Officer Agatha Lee said the additional aircraft will allow the carrier to capitalise on opportunities created by Hong Kong International Airport’s Three-Runway System, supporting further regional expansion and the development of Hong Kong’s aviation sector.
The fleet addition forms part of the Cathay Group’s wider investment programme, which exceeds HK$100 billion (US$13 million) and covers aircraft, cabin upgrades, lounges and digital innovation. The group has more than 100 new aircraft on order, including narrow-body, regional and long-haul wide-body passenger aircraft, as well as next-generation freighters, underscoring its long-term commitment to growth across both passenger and cargo markets.
