Bruce Barnard | Jul 21, 2010 10:39AM EDT
Etihad Airways took delivery of the first A330-200F, the world's newest freighter aircraft from Airbus.
The United Arab Emirates national airline is the launch customer for the mid-sized long haul freighter which will enter service with its Etihad Crystal Cargo unit in September.
In September, the carrier will take delivery of a second A330-200F aircraft, which will start flying in October.
"The new aircraft will become a key part of our freighter fleet and make a major contribution to building the strength and network of our cargo business," Etihad CEO James Hogan said at a handover ceremony at the Farnborough International Air Show near London.
"The additional capacity will help us significantly expand our footprint in Asia and Europe, including China, as well as enhancing our worldwide charter business," Hogan said.
Etihad's cargo traffic grew 18 percent over the last quarter, Hogan said.
Etihad Crystal Cargo currently operates a fleet of four freighters -- two A300-600s and two MD-11s. In all, it operates 54 aircraft.
Airbus has 64 of the A330-200Fs on order, the last contract for two aircraft placed by Malaysian Airline System in April.
The new freighter can carry up to 64 metric tons of cargo and can fly up to 4,625 miles non-stop.
-- Contact Bruce Barnard at brucebarnard47@hotmail.com.