YTO Cargo Airlines and Air Central Make Aviation History with First ARJ21F Deliveries

In a groundbreaking move, China’s YTO Cargo Airlines and Air Central have achieved a significant milestone by taking delivery of the first ARJ21-700(F) passenger-to-cargo aircraft from COMAC (Commercial Aircraft Corporation of China). This marks the inauguration of the conversion program for this aircraft type, showcasing China’s prowess in aviation innovation.

The handover ceremony for this historic “first batch” of ARJ21-700 freighters took place at the Guangzhou Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Company Limited (GAMECO) facility at Guangzhou Airport on October 30. YTO Cargo Airlines officially received B-3329 (msn 112), while Air Central (China) welcomed B-3388 (msn 109). Recent test flights, as tracked by Flightradar24 ADS-B data, affirm the successful performance of these converted aircraft.

Air Central has ambitious plans for its ARJ21 freighter, intending to establish routes connecting Zhengzhou, Shanghai Pudong, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen, fostering enhanced connectivity within China’s Central Plains Economic Zone in Henan and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Meanwhile, YTO Cargo Airlines sets its sights on serving Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia with its ARJ21 fleet.

The ARJ21-700F conversions, boasting a maximum payload of 10 tons and a range of 2,778 kilometers, are strategically designed for cargo and mail carriage, as well as express delivery services on both domestic and short-haul international routes. YTO Express, a specialist in express delivery, plans to integrate at least two ARJ21-700Fs into its YTO Cargo Airlines subsidiary, emphasizing the aircraft’s versatility and efficiency.

Air Central’s commitment to operating fifty of these converted aircraft underlines the industry’s confidence in the ARJ21F’s capabilities. As these innovative freighters take to the skies, they are poised to reshape the landscape of cargo transportation in China and beyond. The successful deployment of these aircraft signifies a new era for the aviation industry, showcasing China’s technological advancements and dedication to shaping the future of air transportation.