Buffair Services to Acquire First ATR42-320 Freighter

Kenya’s Buffair Services is preparing to expand its operations with the expected arrival of its first dedicated freighter, an ATR42-320(F). The aircraft is being sub-leased from Zimex Aviation by Renegade Air, although the final agreement has not yet been confirmed. The turboprop, previously registered as HB-AMC, was ferried from Stockholm Arlanda via Sofia and Jeddah to Nairobi Wilson Airport earlier this month and was deregistered from Switzerland shortly afterward.

This 31-year-old ATR42-320 freighter, powered by Pratt & Whitney PW100 engines, began its service life with Air Dolomiti in 1994 and later operated with Avianca Honduras before joining the Zimex Aviation fleet in 2019. Its addition marks Buffair Services’ first move into dedicated cargo operations, complementing its existing passenger services.

Currently, Buffair Services operates two Fokker 50 aircraft on scheduled and charter flights across Kenya, East and Central Africa, and the Middle East. Introducing the ATR42-320(F) would enable the Nairobi Wilson-based carrier to diversify its services, improve regional freight capacity, and strengthen its logistics network.

The deal, once finalized, would position Buffair Services among a growing number of African operators investing in smaller, versatile freighters to meet the increasing demand for regional cargo transport. With the ATR42-320(F)’s proven reliability and short-field performance, Buffair Services is expected to enhance its operational flexibility and expand its reach into new markets across the region. This strategic move aligns with the airline’s goal of expanding beyond passenger flights into a mixed fleet operation.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com