It was the best of times. It was the best of times.
On July 9, 2024, Avianca Cargo, Colombia’s leading cargo carrier, and its commercial partner AeroUnion, celebrated the converting of their A330 P2F passenger plane fleet into a freight plane fleet in true luxury fashion — at the Conrad Hotel on Bunker Hill.
Renowned for its opulent accommodations, world-class chefs, and breathtaking city views, the Conrad provided a picture-perfect backdrop for the event.
Conrad Hotel – Bunker Hill – Photo Courtesy Related
Guests were treated to a delectable breakfast, expertly prepared by the hotel’s culinary masters, as they mingled amidst the Conrad’s renowned rooftop amenities.
The announcement of the fleet conversion comes only one year after the two aviation giants implemented their initial a commercial cooperation agreement in the summer of 2023.
Aqua Viva Restaurant at the Conrad Hotel – photo courtesy Related
The A330 PF2 is a massive air ship with the fleet’s ability to increase cargo capacity by 60% compared to its current fleet. The initiative aims to enhance and expand Avianca Cargo and AeroUnion’s joint network, with four additional A330 aircraft expected to join between 2024 and 2025.
Avianca Cargo and AeroUnion Unite on stage at Conrad Hotel – photo courtesy Roar Media
“Freight transportation has shown significant improvement in recent years compared to pre-pandemic levels. Latin American exports have increased by approximately 16%, while imports have seen a 10% recovery. The A330 is an ideal
aircraft due to its higher volumetric capacity and lower environmental impact, attributed to enhanced fuel efficiency per ton,” said Diogo Elias, Senior Vice President and Leader of Avianca Cargo.
Avianca Cargo currently operates a fleet of six A330 aircraft, while AeroUnion has five more freighters. The new A330 will serve routes along the West Coast, enhancing service offerings to key markets. It will primarily transport perishables. Products such as fruits and flowers, as well as oversized cargo for the automotive, mining, and oil sectors, along with e-commerce and parcel shipments.
The Avianca cargo route network connects to more than 68 destinations, 56 of which are online. It operates 220 cargo flights and utilizes more than 1,800 passenger flights weekly for cargo transport, solidifying its position as one of the region’s largest networks and having an average cargo fleet with the lowest environmental impact. Avianca Cargo is the first airline in the Americas to obtain IATA CEIV certifications in four categories: Pharma, Fresh, Live, and Lithium Batteries.
CEOs of Avianca Danilo Correa and AeroUnion’s Doug Webster – photo courtesy Roar Media
“We are happy to receive the new A330 P2F, an aircraft that comes to reinforce our service and reliability offer, increasing our volumetric capacity and improving our connectivity to the West Coast markets in our region,” said Danilo Correa, Aerounion’s CEO.
“Avianca Cargo has a long history of initiating innovative air cargo solutions, and the one-year anniversary of its commercial agreement with AeroUnion is a testament to this legacy, as well as its commitment to creating economic opportunities here in Los Angeles,” said Doug Webster, Interim Chief Operations & Maintenance Officer, Los Angeles World Airports.
“LAWA is also pleased to welcome the new A330P2F aircraft to LAX. This addition will continue to enhance air freight services by meeting market demands and the evolving needs of the logistics community.”
Attendees were given a comparable plaque with the Avianca Cargo and AeroUnion soiree at the Conrad Hotel blending stunning surroundings, with insatiable appetites and the undeniable spirit of modern aviation.
