DALLAS, TX – Ameriflight and Jetstream Aviation Capital have partnered on the lease and delivery of 15 Saab 340B(F) cargo aircraft for the nation’s largest Part 135 Cargo airline. The addition represents another step forward in a multifaceted corporate strategy shift for Ameriflight.
The first aircraft are intended to join the Ameriflight operation in the fourth quarter of this year. This latest fleet type will be used to support unprecedented demand for the company’s services, including Ameriflight’s expedited supply chain services, dedicated operations, and regional feeder service for the world’s largest overnight express carriers.
After careful analysis amongst many platforms and the exploration of multiple aircraft, the company landed on the Saab 340B as an excellent fit for the operation, noting the aircraft’s exceptional safety record and compelling operating economics.
“We are proud to partner with Jetstream on the venture of operating the Saab 340B at Ameriflight. This aircraft offers the market the best combination of cubic capacity and cost, which will be best suited for our customers and their increasing needs for years to come,” said Ameriflight Chief Executive Officer Paul Chase. “Expanding our fleet and ultimately our business is a great opportunity not only for our customers but for our hardworking employees on the front line, as well.”
“We are pleased that Ameriflight, one of our longest-standing customers, has selected the Saab 340B freighter to be provided by Jetstream,” said Jetstream Chief Executive Officer Stuart Klaskin. “The 340B’s combination of operational capability, economic efficiency, and ongoing support from our partners at Saab for the airframe and General Electric for the engine continue to make this the aircraft of choice for express and integrator-support cargo operators worldwide. It is our privilege to welcome Ameriflight to the Saab 340 community.”
Ameriflight is the nation’s largest Part 135 cargo airline. Founded in 1968, Ameriflight has grown from a small air charter and cargo service carrier to an international operator with 14 bases, 1,500 weekly departures, and 200 destinations. The company is headquartered in Dallas, TX and has more than 500 employees including over 150 pilots and over 100 aircraft. Ameriflight provides feeder services for overnight express carriers such as UPS, FedEx, and DHL.
Jetstream Aviation Capital is a Miami-based aircraft lessor specializing in commercially operated regional turboprop aircraft, and is the largest global owner of Saab 340 and Saab 2000 aircraft and associated spares and engines. Jetstream’s portfolio of over 150 aircraft also includes ATR 72-500/600, Cessna Caravan, Embraer EMB-120 and Pilatus PC-12 passenger and cargo aircraft.
Aircraft rendering: Jetstream Aviation Capital/Steve Wyrostok
