UAE’s Fly Vaayu Cargo Aircraft Welcomes at RAK Airport from China

UAE’s Fly Vaayu Cargo Aircraft Welcomes Arrival at RAK Airport from China

Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RKT) hailed the arrival of Fly Vaayu’s first flight from China, marking a significant milestone for the air freight sector. This milestone signifies the beginning of the first freighter airline in the United Arab Emirates, which intends to locate its operational hub at RKT, which is ideally situated as a vital link between Asia, Africa, and Europe.

The historic arrival, which took place on October 7, 2024, was greeted with a ceremonial water salute and attended by dignitaries and officials, including Eng. Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al-Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation in Ras Al Khaimah (RAKDCA) and Ras Al Khaimah International Airport Authority. Joining him were Syed Muhammed Raziff Aljunied, Consul General of Singapore, Boon Keng Tan from ST Engineering, Singapore, Vijay Arumbakkam of the Vaayu Group, and other prominent representatives.

A Milestone in Air Cargo
The aircraft, an Airbus A320 converted into a freighter (A320P2F), represents only the third such conversion globally and the first registered in the UAE. This creative change, carried out by EFW, a partnership between Airbus and Singapore’s ST Engineering, greatly boosts payload capacity while keeping costs down. It adapts the cargo ship to the air freight industry, particularly for connecting areas with strong demand.

Fly Vaayu intends to serve the GCC and UAE markets by using Ras Al Khaimah International Airport as its hub to transport air cargo between Asia, Africa, and Europe. Due to its advantageous location between Africa and the Indian subcontinent, the airport has outstanding access to important international markets and unmatched expansion potential.

Vision for a Thriving Air Freight Ecosystem
Expressing his enthusiasm, Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al-Qasimi highlighted the significance of this launch for Ras Al Khaimah and the broader UAE. “”This is a significant occasion and a major achievement as Fly Vaayu establishes itself as the UAE’s first dedicated cargo airline, with its global operations based at Ras Al Khaimah International Airport,” he noted.

He further emphasized the strategic alignment of Fly Vaayu’s vision with the economic strength of Ras Al Khaimah, which includes thriving manufacturing and strong commercial investments. “This partnership underscores our commitment to expanding air cargo opportunities globally and reinforces the emirate’s growing reputation as a major player in the aviation and logistics sectors. Fly Vaayu’s operations will significantly enhance our connectivity and economic position on the global stage,” he added.

Empowering Economic Growth
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport’s innovations and its close proximity to important trade routes between Europe, Africa, and Asia make it the perfect location for Fly Vaayu’s operations. By catering to the rapidly growing air cargo market, Fly Vaayu will not only improve logistics capabilities but also help Ras Al Khaimah’s economy.

An Exciting Prospect for Air Cargo
A new era for the UAE’s air cargo business begins with Fly Vaayu’s dedication to quality and operational effectiveness. The company is well-positioned to change the dynamics of air cargo in the GCC and beyond because to its committed cargo fleet, cutting-edge technology, and strategic alliances.

This partnership reinforces Ras Al Khaimah International Airport’s commitment to providing world-class infrastructure, and sets a new benchmark in the region’s aviation heritage while ensuring seamless global trade connections. As the airline grows, it is expected to open up a wealth of opportunities for businesses, further cementing the UAE’s position as a global logistics hub.