ACIA Aero Leasing has sold an ATR 72-500 LCD freighter (MSN727) to Canadian regional carrier Air Creebec. The aircraft, which will enter service in December 2024, marks Air Creebec’s first ATR and will support the airline’s various cargo contracts across Canada.
Originally converted into a bulk freighter (BFC) in 2021, the aircraft has been further upgraded with a Large Cargo Door (LCD) at Empire Aerospace in Idaho. This modification enhances its capability to handle larger cargo loads.
Mark Dunnachie, Senior Vice President of Commercial at ACIA Aero Leasing, highlighted the potential of the Canadian market for ATR aircraft, noting opportunities in both passenger and cargo sectors. He also emphasized the company’s expertise in freighter conversions, pointing out that the aircraft was reconfigured from a standard BFC to an LCD variant—along with maintenance and repainting—in under six months.
Tanya Pash, President and CEO of Air Creebec, expressed excitement over the acquisition, stating that the new LCD-equipped ATR would improve flexibility in cargo operations, particularly for delivering essential supplies to remote northern communities. “As the main airline in our region, Air Creebec must continue to provide innovative solutions to serve our diverse clientele,” she said.
