UK-based freighter carrier One Air has enhanced its fleet with the addition of a third Boeing 747-400 freighter, responding to increased demand on the Asia-Europe route. The newly leased aircraft, acquired from AeroTransCargo on a five-year lease, completed its inaugural flight from Hong Kong to East Midlands Airport in the UK.
This extended range (ER) model, featuring nose-loading capabilities, offers a cargo capacity of up to 124 tonnes. To support its expanded operations, One Air has hired 27 new flight crew and support personnel, boosting its workforce at the UK headquarters to over 125 professionals.
One Air’s Chairman & CEO, Paul Bennett, emphasised that the fleet expansion aligns with the high demand observed for British cargo services. He highlighted that the new 747-400’s enhanced capacity will better serve the growing client base and indicated plans to add at least one more freighter by mid-2025.
Since launching operations in July 2023 with its first 747-400F, the carrier has progressively scaled up its fleet. The second 747 was introduced in November to cater to the surge in demand from China and Hong Kong to Europe. The airline has also relocated its UK operations from Heathrow Airport to East Midlands to take advantage of greater slot availability and fewer night-time flying restrictions.
In its first year, One Air has operated flights from various UK airports and served destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Currently, it operates a weekly contract of seven flights from Hong Kong to Europe, transporting general cargo.
Looking ahead, One Air is considering adding a fourth freighter to its fleet in the first half of next year and has hinted at the potential inclusion of 777 freighters. The airline is also advocating for a bilateral agreement between the UK and the EU to facilitate the sourcing of pilots, engineers, and maintenance personnel to support its growth and operational efficiency.
