Newark, New Jersey — February 2020 — US Airways today announced two major strategic initiatives that will shape the airline's future: the launch of US Airways Cargo, a dedicated freight division, and a long-term fleet modernization program that will transition the airline to an all-Airbus fleet.
The launch of US Airways Cargo follows the acquisition of the route network and operating authorities formerly held by American Cargo Express, providing US Airways with an immediate entry into the air cargo market and establishing a foundation for future growth in domestic and international freight transportation.
The acquisition includes the carrier's route portfolio and operating rights but does not include any aircraft or other physical assets. At the time of its closure, American Cargo Express operated a fleet of 85 cargo aircraft, including Boeing 737, Boeing 757, Boeing 767, and Bombardier Dash 8-Q400 freighters.
US Airways Cargo will instead build its operation around the Airbus A330-200F, with the airline's first dedicated freighter joining the fleet as the foundation of a modern and efficient cargo network.
"Today marks a defining moment in the history of US Airways," said the Chief Executive Officer of US Airways. "The launch of US Airways Cargo expands our reach into a vital and growing sector of the aviation industry, while our transition toward an all-Airbus fleet positions the airline for greater efficiency, reliability, and long-term profitability."
Headquartered in Newark, New Jersey, US Airways currently operates a fleet of 147 aircraft serving destinations throughout North America and international markets. The airline enters this expansion from a position of financial strength, with more than $3.08 billion in total assets and no outstanding liabilities recorded on its balance sheet.
In conjunction with the cargo launch, US Airways announced plans to retire its aging Airbus A310 and Boeing 757 fleets over the coming years as part of a comprehensive fleet simplification strategy.
The retirement program will include:
6 Airbus A310-200 aircraft
28 Airbus A310-300 aircraft
3 Boeing 757-200 aircraft
3 Boeing 757-300 aircraft
Together, these 40 aircraft represent some of the oldest airframes in the US Airways fleet, with many having served the airline faithfully for more than two decades.
The transition will allow US Airways to streamline operations around a modern Airbus fleet consisting of:
Airbus A220-100
Airbus A319-100
Airbus A320-200
Airbus A321-200
Airbus A330 family
Airbus A340 family
Airbus A330-200F freighters
By standardizing around Airbus aircraft, US Airways expects to reduce maintenance and training costs, improve fleet flexibility, and enhance operational efficiency across both passenger and cargo operations.
US Airways Cargo will initially focus on integrating former American Cargo Express routes into its network while developing new freight services for express parcels, e-commerce shipments, industrial freight, mail contracts, and time-sensitive logistics customers. Additional Airbus A330-200F acquisitions will be evaluated as cargo operations expand.
"Our vision is clear," the CEO added. "We are building a stronger, more efficient US Airways—one that combines a modern all-Airbus fleet with a growing cargo business capable of connecting businesses and communities around the world."
The airline expects the first phase of cargo operations and fleet modernization to begin immediately, with further announcements regarding cargo destinations, fleet acquisitions, and retirement schedules to be released throughout 2020.
About US Airways
US Airways is a Newark, New Jersey-based airline operating passenger and cargo services throughout North America and international markets. With a fleet of 147 aircraft and more than $3 billion in assets, US Airways is committed to providing safe, reliable, and efficient transportation while investing in the future of aviation through fleet modernization and strategic growth initiatives.