Levu Air Cargo scores Latin American first with A321F partnership

Levu Air Cargo will lease an Airbus A321 freighter from SmartLynx Airlines to become the first carrier in Latin America to operate the type.

The dry-leased aircraft last week arrived in Recife, Brazil to begin the registration process under the National Civil Aviation Agency of Brazil (ANAC) and change the aircraft number to PS-LVU.

The aircraft will be operated by Levu in Brazil on behalf of DHL Express.

The freighter previously operated under registration number 9H-CGD (MSN 775) for DHL Aviation in partnership with SmartLynx.

Levu said it is in final steps with ANAC for its certification process and expects to obtain its AOC 121 in Jun 2024. It will be able to transport all types of goods including dangerous goods.

After obtaining its AOC, it will start the process of certification under European (EASA), and US (FAA and DOT) in order to perform international flights in 2025.

Rodrigo Pacheco, chief executive of Levu Air Cargo, said: “We specifically sought out SmartLynx due to their extensive knowledge of the aircraft as they are the biggest operator for A321F in the world today.

“Their partnership with DHL in Europe makes the learning curve much more efficient for us as we will operate for the DHL supply chain here in Brazil. This strategic decision helps us deliver top-notch performance and ensures the best results for our valued customers.”

Edvinas Demenius, chief executive of SmartLynx Airlines, added: “Our partnership with Levu marks a significant milestone, not only for the Brazilian aviation market with the introduction of the first A321F registered in the country and region, but also for SmartLynx as we extend our cargo capacity management services to Latin America.

“This important step is a part of our strategic efforts to expand our geography and we see much potential in this region.”

Brazil-headquartered Levu Air Cargo operates in both national and international markets through its fleet and strategic partnerships. The company is headquartered in Campinas, one of the primary air hubs in Brazil. It also has bases in Recife, Belém, and Manaus.

The A321F is the only aircraft in its category capable of handling containerised cargo on both the lower and main deck, significantly improving turnover efficiency.

Avia Solutions Group-owned SmartLynx operates Airbus A320, A321, A321F, A330, and Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft.

SmartLynx targets a fleet of 13 A321Fs by year end