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Advantage Air agrees deal for two De Havilland Canada freighter conversion kits

Advantage Air Travel has agreed terms to purchase two De Havilland Aircraft of Canada package freighter conversion kits, as part of the Kenya operator’s Dash 8-400 freighter programme. They are scheduled for delivery in late 2025.

The package freighter conversion kit is part of De Havilland Canada’s suite of cargo conversion solutions, offering a permanent reconfiguration of the Dash 8-400 aircraft from a passenger layout to a dedicated cargo platform. 

The kit transforms the aircraft into a full-time cargo platform, featuring nine distinct loading zones with eight radial spider nets providing tie-down and restraint functions, smoke detection systems.

A cargo loading system is also available for palletised cargo.  

With short take-off and landing (STOL) capability, high dispatch reliability and low operating costs, De Havilland Canada noted the Dash 8-400 in Package Freighter configuration continues to offer regional operators a strategic advantage in the evolving cargo market. 

De Havilland Canada Vice President of Sales and Marketing Ryan DeBrusk said: “We are proud to continue our collaboration with Advantage Air as they expand their cargo operations from their home base at Wilson Airport in Nairobi, Kenya.

“Their decision to invest in our package freighter product highlights the value of our dedicated cargo solutions and the growing demand for reliable, rugged aircraft in regional markets.” 

Advantage Air CEO Captain Mohammad Somow commented: “Our investment in the package freighter kit programme marks an important milestone in our fleet strategy. 

“These kits enhance our capacity to meet cargo demands with speed, reliability, and efficiency – leveraging the proven durability and performance of the Dash 8-400.”