MANAMA, BAHRAIN — Cargo operator Texel Air has signed an agreement with Boeing to acquire two more B737- 800 Converted Freighters (BCF).

Texel Air had earlier ordered two B737-800BCFs and received the first one in January 2022. This delivery made the Bahrain, Manama-based carrier the launch operator in the Middle East. Texel will take delivery of its second B737-800BCF on order later this year.

The further order for two more copies will bring Texel Air's 737-800BCF fleet to four units once they are delivered.

"Our customers have responded very positively to the operation, performance, and capabilities of the first 737-800BCF, which we began operating this year,"

said George Chisholm, chief executive officer, Chisholm Enterprises and Texel Air.

"This initial response boosted our confidence in the product, and we decided to add two more BCF to our fleet to help us meet our ever-increasing demand. Through the 737-800BCF we have been able to expand our destinations and increase our payload.," 

Chisholm added.

"Texel Air's early experience with the 737-800BCF is a testament to the versatility and efficiency of the freighter,"

said Jens Steinhagen, director of Boeing Converted Freighters.

"We are pleased to provide Texel Air with an additional two 737-800BCF – the freighter capacity it requires to capture growth opportunities in the region with a capable, higher-payload freighter," 

Steinhagen added.

The B737-800BCF is able to carry more cargo (up to 23.9 tonnes / 52,800 lbs.), and flies farther (2,025 nautical miles / 3,750 km) compared to classic 737 freighters. There are orders and order commitments for 200 B737-800BCFs on Boeing's backlog.