ACIA Delivers First ATR 72-600P2F Freighter to FedEx
The newly converted aircraft features a large cargo door designed to enhance regional freight shipping capabilities.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Transportation
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ACIA Aero Leasing has delivered the first ATR 72-600P2F aircraft, registered as MSN 1239, to FedEx. The freighter conversion enables the transport of larger, palletised cargo.
Why it matters
The conversion allows operators to manage bulkier freight in regional markets, providing a blueprint for the future of the ATR 72-600 series. This development addresses the growing demand for specialized cargo capacity in short-haul logistics.
The freighter conversion includes a large cargo door measuring 2.94 meters by 1.8 meters. ACIA currently manages a portfolio of more than 50 regional passenger and freighter aircraft.
The players
ACIA Aero Leasing
This regional aircraft leasing company manages a portfolio of over 50 aircraft and maintains offices in Ireland, France, the UK, and South Africa.
FedEx
This global logistics corporation provides courier and freight transportation services to international markets.
Empire Aerospace
This US-based firm specializes in aviation maintenance and modification, including freighter conversion services.
The details
Empire Aerospace executed the freighter conversion process, which began under a program initiated by ACIA in 2024. The MSN 1239 aircraft now serves as the primary model for subsequent conversions in this series.
Timeline
2024: ACIA initiated the ATR 72-600 series conversion programme.
July 2025: ACIA announced the sale of the aircraft to FedEx.
December 2025: This was the original scheduled delivery date for the aircraft.
October 15, 2026: ACIA announced the formal delivery of the freighter.
Market Landscape
The delivery signifies a strategic shift toward repurposing regional turboprops for cargo to meet increasing demand for express freight. This move positions ACIA to compete more effectively in the specialized short-haul logistics market.
The introduction of specialized regional freighters like the ATR 72-600P2F may lead to more efficient cargo movement for global logistics providers. For consumers, this enhancement supports faster processing times for short-haul shipments.
The takeaway
The deployment of the ATR 72-600P2F underscores the industry trend of extending the lifecycle of regional aircraft through specialized freight modifications. Companies prioritizing such upgrades can bridge the gap between passenger fleet retirement and the rising demand for short-haul shipping capacity.
Further reading
For broader trends in logistics, visit the Transportation section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Air Cargo News.
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