JAL set to launch dedicated freight operations in February 2024

Japan Airlines (JAL) has announced that it will start dedicated freighter operations in February 2024, initially serving a network of locations around North Asia. The airline will commence service with a Boeing 767-300ER, a converted aircraft that was previously used for passenger services by the Tokyo-based carrier. Additionally, the airline will receive two additional 767-300 converted freighters as part of its tactical expansion plans.

The Tokyo-based airline has stated that it will operate its air freighter service from Tokyo’s Narita International Airport and Nagoya’s Chubu Centrair International Airport to Taipei, Seoul’s Incheon, as well as Shanghai’s Pudong Airport. According to the airline, the service will commence on 19th February 2024.

JAL has mentioned that "The operation of the freighters will enhance stable and flexible air transportation capabilities, ensuring a steady supply. Furthermore, the development of a network strategy based on growing demand will ensure the satisfaction of customer needs and contribute to the sustainable development of the logistics infrastructure."

In 2011, the Oneworld carrier retired its fleet of 747-400 freighters, marking the end of its specialized freight operations. Since then, JAL claims to have taken advantage of cargo compartments on its passenger planes and, in response to demand, leased out the freighters of other enterprises.

In May 2023, the airline announced its decision to introduce three Boeing 767-300ER Freighters. This move marked a significant development for the airline, coming after a gap of 13 years.

The upcoming B737-300ERBCFs can carry up to 32 tonnes on the main deck and 16 tonnes on the lower deck, according to Japan Airlines, with a cruising range of 10,460 kilometers.

Apart from JAL's 767 freighter project, Elbe Flugzeugwerke (EFW), a German freighter conversion company, has recently delivered the first of three Airbus A321P2F aircraft to Japan.