ATSG Delivers First EASA-Certified A321 Converted Freighter to Warsaw Cargo, Marking Strategic Expansion into European Market
Air Transport Services Group, Inc. (ATSG), a global leader in aircraft leasing, air cargo transportation, and aviation services, has announced the successful delivery of its first Airbus A321 passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The aircraft has been leased to Warsaw Cargo, an emerging cargo airline headquartered in Warsaw, Poland, as part of ATSG’s broader strategy to expand its presence in European and transcontinental logistics markets.
The delivery marks a significant milestone in ATSG’s continued investment in the next generation of narrowbody cargo aircraft and underscores the growing importance of regional express and e-commerce cargo services in Europe. With cargo demand shifting increasingly toward time-sensitive, high-frequency shipments, the A321-200PCF provides a compelling, efficient solution for medium-haul operators seeking to optimize payload, performance, and fuel efficiency.
Aircraft Highlights: A New Standard in Narrowbody Airfreight
The aircraft delivered to Warsaw Cargo is an A321-200PCF, a precision cargo freighter converted from passenger configuration through 321 Precision Conversions, a joint venture between ATSG and Precision Aircraft Solutions. This model has quickly become a preferred platform in the cargo industry due to its versatility, advanced systems, and high-volume capacity.
Key performance characteristics of the A321-200PCF include:
- Payload capacity of up to 27 tons (approximately 60,000 pounds).
- Full containerized cargo capability on the main deck, allowing for fast, secure loading and unloading.
- Fuel-efficient operation, making it ideal for environmentally conscious carriers.
- Optimized for short- and medium-haul regional missions, serving high-frequency routes that demand flexibility.
The EASA certification is particularly significant as it allows for seamless integration into the European aviation regulatory environment, enabling Warsaw Cargo to operate the aircraft immediately within the EU and associated territories.
Strategic Impact: ATSG Strengthens European Leasing Footprint
For ATSG, this delivery reflects not only a growing appetite for narrowbody freighter leasing but also the company’s strategic intent to diversify its global customer base and deepen its engagement with emerging carriers.
“This is a key milestone for ATSG as we continue expanding our global leasing fleet with high-performance, fuel-efficient aircraft platforms,” said Todd France, Chief Commercial Officer of ATSG. “The A321-200PCF provides our customers with a highly flexible, reliable solution that aligns with modern cargo trends—especially in e-commerce, express shipping, and regional distribution. We’re proud to support Warsaw Cargo’s entry into the market and to partner in building their operational foundation.”
With the global air cargo market undergoing rapid transformation—driven by e-commerce growth, just-in-time delivery models, and increased intra-regional trade—ATSG’s focus on narrowbody freighters like the A321 positions it well to meet the evolving needs of both legacy and start-up operators.
Warsaw Cargo: A Rising Player in European Airfreight
Warsaw Cargo enters the market at a pivotal time. As consumer expectations shift toward faster delivery and online retail continues to surge, regional operators are increasingly stepping into roles traditionally dominated by integrators and global carriers. The ability to provide on-demand ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) services, as well as bespoke charter operations, gives Warsaw Cargo a competitive edge in a fragmented logistics landscape.
According to Jarosław Chłopecki, CEO of Warsaw Cargo, selecting the A321-200PCF as the airline’s launch aircraft was a deliberate decision rooted in efficiency, reliability, and future scalability.
“As a new cargo carrier, our focus is on building a strong, sustainable foundation with trusted partners and proven equipment,” Chłopecki said. “The A321 freighter allows us to launch operations with a highly capable and efficient platform, tailored to today’s express cargo needs. ATSG has been a valuable strategic partner, offering both the aircraft and the expertise we need to succeed in this dynamic market. We’re excited to bring reliable, regional cargo service to Europe and expand as demand continues to grow.”
Warsaw Cargo plans to operate its fleet across key European trade lanes, with potential extensions into Northern Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. The company’s long-term strategy also includes expanding its fleet with additional A321 freighters and exploring other narrowbody and medium widebody freighter options.
A321 P2F Market Outlook: Fueling the E-Commerce Boom
The A321-200PCF represents a major leap forward in narrowbody freighter technology. As legacy narrowbodies like the Boeing 737-400F and 757-200F age out of service, carriers are looking for more modern alternatives. The A321’s enhanced cargo volume, fuel efficiency, and commonality with current-generation Airbus platforms make it an ideal candidate for fleet replacement and expansion.
Conversion programs have ramped up globally to meet this demand. The aircraft’s design supports both containerized lower deck loading and a main deck cargo door, maximizing operational throughput. Its range of approximately 2,300 nautical miles with full payload makes it ideal for high-density regional operations—exactly the segment where e-commerce and next-day logistics providers are investing heavily.
For leasing companies like ATSG, investing in the A321 P2F program ensures their portfolios remain relevant, competitive, and in high demand across various markets. The delivery to Warsaw Cargo is one of several placements expected in the coming quarters as more operators seek fleet modernization and cargo flexibility.
Leading the Future of Freighter Leasing
Air Transport Services Group, Inc. is a diversified aviation services provider specializing in aircraft leasing, air cargo transportation, and support services to domestic and international clients. Through subsidiaries including Cargo Aircraft Management (CAM), ABX Air, Air Transport International, and 321 Precision Conversions, ATSG offers full-service solutions for freight carriers, express delivery companies, and government customers.
ATSG’s current fleet includes Boeing 767 freighters, Boeing 757s, and now Airbus A321s, covering both medium and narrowbody categories. With decades of experience and a strong track record in both aircraft conversion and end-to-end leasing support, ATSG is uniquely positioned to drive the next chapter of cargo aviation—focused on efficiency, environmental responsibility, and global responsiveness.
A Shared Commitment to Innovation and Growth
The delivery of the first EASA-certified A321-200PCF to Warsaw Cargo is more than a commercial transaction—it represents a strategic partnership and a vision for the future of regional cargo transportation in Europe and beyond. As e-commerce reshapes logistics, and sustainability demands greater fuel efficiency, both companies are positioned to lead in delivering smarter, faster, and more sustainable air freight services.
In the coming months, ATSG is expected to continue placing A321 converted freighters with new and existing customers, further expanding its presence in global leasing markets and supporting the modernization of the world’s cargo fleets.