Alaska Air Cargo has introduced a new in-seat package stowage system to allow full use of an Alaska Airlines passenger aircraft in a cargo-only configuration. As the North American launch customer for HAECO’s design, the interior package stowage containers enables Alaska Air Cargo to fill the main cabin passenger seats with an additional 13,500 pounds of cargo apart from the standard weight a passenger-only cargo flight can carry.
In addition to Alaska Air Cargo’s three dedicated freighters, one Boeing 737-900 passenger aircraft is being utilised as a cargo-only aircraft. Each flight will carry up to 30,000 pounds, which includes belly capacity.
The crew for these cargo flights will consist of two pilots and two cargo load agents. Cargo load agents will ensure oversight of loading, proper tagging, fire suppression if required, and cargo integrity within the in-seat package stowage system.
“Our teams have been working since spring to identify the safest and most effective processes to increase our cargo capacity,” said Torque Zubeck, Managing Director of Alaska Air Cargo. “HAECO’s design will allow us to maximise the available space, increase our cargo capacity and protect the supply chain by connecting critical cargo to the communities we serve during this public health crisis.”
Alaska Air Cargo has used passenger aircraft previously with limited freighter service, but until now, was unable to use the passenger seats. This innovative, FAA-approved- design allows cargo personnel to use all available space on the main deck for essential goods like mail, medical equipment, e-commerce packages and other freight.
“We are pleased with the continued partnership we have with Alaska Airlines, having performed heavy maintenance and reconfiguration work to them for over a decade. We are delighted that we can also offer a quick, cost-effective solution to maximize cargo yields in their passenger cabins during this challenging time,” said Doug Rasmussen, President and Group Director of HAECO Cabin Solutions.
