YTO AIrlines (YTO Express) (Hangzhou) is a new Chinese airline proposing to add Boeing-converted 737-800 freighters. The new airline is planning to finalize an order for 15 Boeing 737-800BCFs.

The new airline commenced cargo operations on September 26, 2015 from Hangzhou to Chengdu with a Boeing 737-300F freighter (737-36Q (SF) B-2505, msn 28657) leased from Donghai Airlines.

Boeing has issued this statement:

Boeing is extremely pleased to enter into an agreement with YTO Airlines to provide the airline with 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCFs) pending a planned program launch.

“We are honored that YTO Airlines has chosen to partner with Boeing as it expands its operations and freighter fleet,” said Rick Anderson, vice president of sales, Commercial Aviation Services. “We are confident the 737-800BCF—with its more advanced avionics, better fuel efficiency and lower operating costs—will provide the airline with a competitive advantage in the marketplace.”

Image Above: Boeing.

The 737-800 will be the first Next-Generation 737 that Boeing offers for conversion. Through its 737 freighter conversion program, Boeing will support customers in the narrow-body freighter market, a segment of the freighter market growing quickly around the world.

YTO Airlines is a Hangzhou-based Chinese express cargo carrier backed by Shanghai YTO Express Investment (Group) Co., Ltd. The carrier currently operates a fleet of Boeing 737-300F airplanes, providing domestic and international air cargo services.