SunWest Launches Cargo Division, Announces Partnership with Amazon Air

SunWest Airlines has announced a significant expansion of its operations by launching cargo services, which will operate in parallel with its passenger network. The new service, dubbed "Pacific Trader," will see six of SunWest's older B737s converted into full freighter configurations to meet the ever-increasing cargo demand. Along with the launch of Pacific Trader, SunWest has further announced a partnership with Amazon Air, and will operate a portion of cargo flying on their behalf.

"Pacific Trader is a unique way for us to diversify our business model and capitalize on new opportunities as they arise," said CEO Andrew De Forest. "Cargo volume on our passenger flights has been rapidly increasing towards maximum capacity, so dedicated freight service was the natural solution."

Under it's agreement with Amazon Air, SunWest will provide ACMI for three B737 aircraft, and is expected to commence operations in the first quarter of 2021. Two airframes are currently finishing freighter conversion by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), while the third has been delivered to Boeing's Converted Freighter program. The aircraft are expected to be pressed into immediate service upon completion.

Additional B737 will be placed within the SunWest route network, allowing the carrier to better service it's own cargo needs, as well as bid for future EAS (essential air service) cargo contracts.

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About SunWest Airlines

SunWest is one of the fastest growing carriers in the United States. With hundreds of daily flights, SunWest has established itself as a leader in both business and leisure air travel by providing customers with honest and transparent prices.

Founded in 1980 with a handful of prop aircraft, SunWest has grown into a major carrier, operating the latest jet aircraft, all while maintaining the same award-winning customer service approach that got us where we are.

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