SpiceJet has confirmed its plans to acquire a new Airbus A340 aircraft for its cargo operations.

The aircraft — a long-range, wide-body commercial jet airliner — has capacity for 35 tonnes of cargo and will primarily be deployed on medium and long haul cargo services including those to Europe, CIS & Africa.

“The induction of our first wide-body cargo aircraft will be a huge game-changer in our remarkable journey that has seen SpiceJet emerge as the country’s largest cargo operator. Very soon, an Indian carrier will be proudly operating non-stop cargo services across the globe to destinations in Europe, Africa and CIS countries which till a few months back would have been unthinkable,” said Ajay Singh, chairman and managing director.

"We are confident that our long haul cargo flights would further help boost Indian businesses, farmers, pharma companies providing them seamless access to newer markets," he added.

The A340 will be SpiceJet's first widebody cargo aircraft and will expand its cargo fleet to nine aircraft consisting of five Boeing 737s, three Bombardier Q-400s and one Airbus A340.

SpiceJet is India's largest cargo operator. During the coronavirus outbreak, the airline has played a key role in keeping the country’s supply chain intact during despite the nationwide lockdown. 

It has operated more than 5600 flights transporting over 31,000 tonnes of cargo since March 25, 2020.