Air Inuit's first B737-800 freighter touches down at Kuujjuaq

Air Inuit's first Boeing 737-800 freighter has touched down at Kuujjuaq Airport, bringing with it its first shipment of vital cargo that will be distributed around Nunavik's communities.

This is the first of the three B737-800 freighters acquired in 2023 that has now entered into service. The recently added aircraft has a carrying capacity of 23 tonnes and it will primarily operate between Montreal and Air Inuit's cargo hubs in Kuujjuaq and La Grande, according to Air Inuit.

"By equipping these aircraft with customised features based on Air Inuit's unique requirements and knowhow, we are ensuring the perennity of our fleet as we fulfil our mission as an essential service," says Christian Busch, president and CEO of Air Inuit.

The carrier is retrofitting two more 737-800s, which will be configured for combi use and are slated to enter service in 2025. This will provide comfortable passenger service and reliable freight delivery simultaneously.

"Air Inuit serves as a critical infrastructure for the people of Nunavik, and today is a powerful demonstration of how we are continuously improving the quality of our service in ways that meet customer needs while acting as a responsible company when it comes to environmental considerations," states Noah Tayara, Executive Chairman of Air Inuit.

Air Inuit will gradually retire its B737-200s and replace them with three B737-800NG aircraft. This will reduce fuel emissions by nearly 40 percent, says the airline.

"Seeing the first of three Boeing Next-Generation 737-800s begin operating is a moment of pride on behalf of the Inuit of Nunavik, and a reminder of our never-ending goal to always seek new ways to improve while also doing our part to reduce our ecological footprint," says Pita Aatami, President of Makivvik.