Canadian aircraft manufacturer DeHavilland Aircraft has announced that Advantage Air Travel will purchase two packaged cargo ship conversion kits to further enhance its operator's Dash 8-400 cargo program.
According to the official release of Canada's De Havilland Aircraft, the purchase, scheduled for delivery in late 2025, reflects the airline's confidence in the performance of the Dash 8-400 and De Havilland Canada's reliable freighter conversion solution.
De Havilland Canada's Packaged Cargo Cargo Conversion Kit is one of several cargo conversion solutions designed to permanently convert a Dash 8-400 from a passenger aircraft to a dedicated cargo ship. These conversions will increase operational efficiency and cater to local airlines looking for high yield flexible cargo operations.
“We are proud to continue our collaboration with Advantage Air to expand our freight operations from our home base at Wilson Airport in Nairobi, Kenya,” said Ryan Debrusk, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at De Havilland Canada. “Their decision to invest in packaged cargo ship products highlights the value of dedicated cargo solutions and the growing demand for reliable, rugged aircraft in the local market.”
Mohammad Somow of CEO Advantage Air added: “Investment in the Packaged Cargo Ship Kit Programme represents a key milestone in our fleet strategy. These kits will increase our ability to meet the demand for cargo with speed, reliability and efficiency.
De Havilland Canada's Packaged Cargo Conversion converts aircraft into a full-time cargo platform. It features nine different loading zones with eight radial spider nets that provide tie-down and restraint functions, a smoke detection system, and a cargo loading system.
Due to its short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities, high dispatch reliability and low operating costs, the Dash 8-400 in packaged cargo ship configuration has been added to provide the strategic edge of the cargo market to local operators.
Advantage Air Travel is a Nairobi, Kenya-based airline specializing in cargo freight services in East Africa, the Horn of Africa and other regions of the continent. It operates at both Wilson and Jomo Kenyatta International Airports in Nairobi, Kenya.
As of May 29, 2025, Advantage Air Travel operates a fleet of three aircraft, including one Bombardier CRJ-200 and two Fokker 50S in its cargo composition.
