Texel Air has taken delivery of a Boeing 737-800 converted freighter at Auckland Airport, expanding its New Zealand fleet to three aircraft and adding dedicated capacity for postal, logistics and charter operations. Named Florence, the former Virgin Australia aircraft was converted in China and joined the fleet as Boeing delivered its 200th 737-800BCF. Another aircraft is scheduled to arrive in January 2027.
Florence is a standard 737 freighter capable of carrying 11 unit-load devices and approximately 23 tonnes of cargo. Texel Air also operates two FlexCombi aircraft, which can carry passengers and freight on the upper deck. Two of the New Zealand-based aircraft are stationed in Auckland and one in Christchurch.
The operation serves New Zealand Post, Freightways and Team Global Express. Two aircraft are under contract to New Zealand Post and Freightways, while additional capacity is available for charter work. BBAM Aircraft Leasing & Management supported the acquisition of Florence.
The next 737-800BCF is undergoing conversion in China and is expected to leave the facility at the end of December before entering service in January. The planned arrival will bring further growth to Texel Air’s dedicated freighter capacity in New Zealand.