Italy’s AlisCargo eyes launch with B777 makeshift freighters

AlisCargo is preparing to launch as a cargo specialist based out of Milan Malpensa and will initially deploy two B777-200(ER)s in makeshift freighter configuration. The start-up’s first aircraft will be N528BC (msn 30871), a 19.5-year-old widebody previously operated by Singapore Airlines, Royal Brunei Airlines, and LATAM Airlines, the ch-aviation fleets advanced module shows. It was ferried from storage at Goodyear to Shannon on June 12, 2021, and will be re-registered as EI-GWA prior to delivery to Italy. It has already been repainted into AlisCargo’s livery, although the delivery date remains unknown. The airline did not disclose the identity or delivery timeline of its second B777-200(ER).

AlisCargo said in a press release that it would initially focus on connecting Italy with Asia-Pacific and Northern America, without naming any specific destinations. It will carry containerised cargo in the bellyholds of the aircraft, while the modified seatless cabins will carry lighter and non-containerised goods. The start-up is backed by the Leali Group, the investment vehicle for Alcide Leali, the founder of Air Dolomiti and Cargoitalia. Chief Executive Francesco Rebaudo used to head SW Italia and Cargolux Italia, while Chief Commercial Officer Ulrich Ogiermann is the former CEO of CargoLogic Germany and the former Chief Cargo Officer of Qatar Airways.

AlisCargo has yet to receive its Air Operator’s Certificate or Operating Licence. It is not clear at which stage of its certification the carrier is at and whether it will await its own permits and licences or launch as a virtual carrier. AlisCargo did not respond to ch-aviation’s request for comment. The only two active all-cargo airlines in Italy are Cargolux Italia, which operates four B747-400(FSCD)s, and Poste Air Cargo with two ATR72-500(F)s and five B737-400(F)s.