Bismillah Airlines Secures Two A321-200PCF for Winter Operations

Bangladesh-based Bismillah Airlines is set to expand its cargo fleet with the introduction of two A321-200(PCF) aircraft during the IATA 2023/24 winter season, as reported by Cargo Facts. The airline plans to commence operations immediately after the 2024 Chinese New Year, with a second A321-200(PCF) expected to join its fleet in the third quarter of the same year.

The A321 freighters are part of Bismillah Airlines’ post-2024 expansion strategy, and the carrier has expressed its intention to acquire additional A321Fs on dry leases. The initial A321s are sourced from 321 Precision Conversions STC, a collaboration between Aircraft Transport Services Group (ATSG) and Precision Aircraft Solutions. Previous reports on the carrier’s plans have highlighted its focus on integrating A321 freighters into its operations.

Bismillah Airlines joins a roster of six cargo carriers based in Bangladesh, including Hello Airlines (Bangladesh), NXT Air, SkyAir, South Asian Airlines, and True Aviation BD. Formerly operating its own aircraft, including three An-12Bs and an L-1011-1, Bismillah Airlines has shifted to interline agreements with other carriers in recent years.

With the new A321-200(PCF) additions, Bismillah Airlines aims to enhance its cargo services to destinations in mainland China, Vietnam, Hong Kong International, South Korea, and Thailand. Presently, the airline’s virtual schedule features flights to Hong Kong, Delhi International, and Changzhou from its base in Dhaka.

Bismillah Airlines has also expressed interest in diversifying its fleet with other aircraft types, including the Cessna 408 Sky Courier and unspecified models of ATR72s and A330s. As the airline progresses with its fleet expansion plans, stay tuned for updates on Bismillah Airlines’ evolving role in Bangladesh’s cargo aviation landscape.