Thai express cargo airline K-Mile Asia is introducing its first B767-300BCF (HS-KSA) to its fleet, expanding its reach and ability to transport larger cargo.

K-Mile Asia — a 55/45 joint venture between Thai investors and Europe's ASL Aviation Holdings — said this will be its first widebody freighter, and K-Mile will be the first B767-300BCF operator and widebody freighter in Thailand.

ASL Aviation Holdings is the largest operator of B737 freighters globally and specialises in express freight on behalf of global customers including DHL, FedEx, UPS and Amazon.

HS-KSA arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) on September 6 in K-Mile livery and is expected to enter service in October 2024. It will connect Thailand with Southeast Asia, China and India.

K-Mile noted that the B767-300BCF is a versatile aircraft, allowing long haul, regional and feeder markets, and can carry up to 51.7 tonnes (115,808 pounds) of revenue payload, with 11,884 ft3 available on the main deck (24 pallets) and a further 3,830 ft3 available in the lower hold.

The first K-Mile B767-300BCF freighter will complement its existing fleet of five B737 freighters and is set to offer cost-efficient new opportunities to air cargo customers in the Thai and Southeast Asia markets, with its capability to move both express parcels and larger cargo speedily with a range of up to 6,105 kilometres or 3,305 nautical miles.

"We are delighted to welcome our first and Thailand's first B767-300BCF aircraft. This milestone is a positive statement in the future of K-Mile as we continue to strengthen and grow," said Pansith Sasunee, managing director of K-Mile.

"Our new aircraft enhances our capabilities and reflects our commitment to our customers by providing quality and reliable services across our cargo network," he added.

The Thai-registered express cargo airline was established in 2004 and began operations in 2006. Its business model focuses on the needs of air express, courier and postal companies that require customized charter cargo transportation.

In addition to its scheduled operations, the airline continues to offer charter flights across its network, serving Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Singapore, Bangladesh and China.

Reports said a second B767, HS-KSB, is undergoing maintenance in Guangzhou and is expected to be delivered to K-Mile Asia later in September.