UPS STEPS UP DELIVERIES OF A300-600 FREIGHTERS
United Parcel Service said Monday it reached agreement with Airbus
Industrie to accelerate the delivery of A-300-600 freighters to seven next year, rather
than the four originally planned.
UPS ordered 30 A300-600s in September 1998. The express carrier will receive
the first aircraft in July. Airbus will then deliver one plane in
each August and September, two in October and one in each November and December. The
aircraft manufacturer expects to complete the order of 30 A300-600s by June 2004.
UPS said strong growth in domestic and international markets created the need
for the additional aircraft.
Atlanta-based UPS said it selected the A300-600 because it is a
"reliable, environmentally friendly widebody regional freighter. The
aircract can transport 55 tons of freight over a range of 1,900 to 2,500
miles.