Saltchuk Aviation group has placed an order with framemaker Boeing for up to four more B767-300 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCF).

The deal includes three firm orders and one option for the medium widebody freighter with what Boeing describes as the lowest operating costs per trip, excellent payload and range capability.

“We continue to see long-term air cargo trends that support fleet growth in the markets served by our three air cargo brands, and are excited to expand our partnership with Boeing,” said Betsy Seaton, President and CEO of Saltchuk Aviation.

“Converting these 767-300ER will bring highly-reliable capacity to our network, and backed by Boeing’s OEM expertise, we expect these freighters to operate in our fleet for the next 15-20 years.”

Saltchuk Aviation has three cargo operating brands: Aloha Air Cargo, Northern Air Cargo and StratAir.

Aloha Air Cargo and Northern Air Cargo are Hawaii and Alaska’s largest scheduled all-cargo airlines. In addition, Northern Air Cargo provides services to destinations throughout North America, Central America, the Caribbean and South America. 

StratAir is a Miami-based air freight company providing scheduled and charter air cargo operations throughout the Caribbean, Central America, and South America as well as ground handling and warehouse operations in Miami.

Saltchuk Aviation’s fleet includes B737s and B767s and transports 380m lbs (172,000 tonnes) of freight annually.

Saltchuk Aviation placed its first order with Boeing for four firm 767-300BCF in early 2021. The first 767-300BCF as part of the initial deal was delivered to the carrier earlier this month.  

Saltchuk Aviation’s carriers have operated 767 converted freighters in their respective fleets alongside 737 freighters since 2016.

“We are honored that Saltchuk Aviation has again selected the highly-versatile 767-300BCF as its freighter of choice to unlock global air cargo opportunities,” said Kate Schaefer, vice president of Boeing’s commercial modifications, engineering & specialty products business.

“With our OEM advantage, we are committed to providing Saltchuk Aviation with the capacity it needs for growth now, and supporting their Boeing Converted Freighter fleet well into the future.”