As part of a planned development strategy, Brussels-based Cargo B Airlines has added its first B747-400 freighter to its fleet for commencement of operations in early January 2009. The aircraft new from the factory and leased from NCA, arrived in Brussels on December 17.

Niek van der Weide, Executive VP commercial, states, 'We are delighted to finally take possession of this modern, fuel efficient aircraft, capable of carrying higher payloads over longer distances.

Cargo B will use this aircraft initially on the three weekly flights to Latin America, serving Sao Paulo, Quito and Bogota. The increased capacity and fuel efficiency will allow us to improve and upgrade our company's service and profitability. The B747-200 aircraft currently in the fleet will continue to offer extended charter capacity with the option to provide extra flights when appropriate. The Cargo B team can look forward to the real possibility of entering new markets and routes within the foreseeable future and we will continue our efforts to add a second 747-400 to our fleet as soon as possible in 2009."