Although Asia Cargo Network has tentatively agreed to add two P2F converted A321-200s, it will continue to monitor the current market environment, including fuel prices and the impact of the war in Ukraine, before finalising the deal, Chief Executive Marko Isaak told Cargo Facts.

The Singapore-based group, which controls World Cargo Airlines in Malaysia and Asia Cargo Airlines and Black Stone Airlines in Indonesia, could take the first A321 freighter in July 2022 and the second one in September. The group is also engaged in "serious negotiations" with an existing A330 operator in Asia to add its first converted widebody freighters, although Isaak did not provide any further details.

He added that the group will also grow its B737-800 freighter fleet, with around five set to join its fleet in the next two years. He did not specify on which AOC(s) they would be placed, however.

Malaysia's World Cargo Airlines (formerly Asia Cargo Express) recently doubled its B737-800(BCF) fleet to two units. It also operates one B737-300(F) and one B737-400(F), the ch-aviation fleets advanced module shows. In turn, Indonesia's Asia Cargo Airlines operates five B737-300(F)s and Black Stone Airlines - two units of the type. Isaak said the B737 Classic freighters continue to offer great economics for cargo runs between Indonesia's numerous islands.

The group's spokesperson did not respond to ch-aviation's query about its A321 and A330 freighter plans.

Although Asia Cargo Network is heavily centred on cargo operations, Black Stone Airlines plans to add up to four A330-900s for passenger charters, focused on the Hajj/Umrah operations.