Tunisian cargo carrier Cargo Wings Express has acquired two Boeing 737-300 passenger-to-freighter (P2F) aircraft as it prepares to commence commercial operations. The aircraft have been leased from Bulgaria-based Cargo Air and are aged 38 and 39 years, according to aviation data platform Planespotters. Both freighters are currently parked as the airline finalises preparations for active service later this year.
The new airline will be based at Tunis-Carthage International Airport (TUN) and plans to operate a mix of scheduled and charter services, handling both general and specialised cargo. Its initial operational focus is expected to be within the African market, with gradual expansion into other global regions as the network develops.
As part of its operational readiness, Cargo Wings Express has already invested in human capital development. The carrier confirmed a pilot training partnership with Simaero, focusing on Boeing 737 Classic type ratings and instructor training programmes, strengthening its technical and operational capacity ahead of launch.
Although its route network has not yet been formally announced, the airline is positioning itself to serve Africa’s growing air cargo demand, driven by expanding trade flows, e-commerce, and regional logistics integration. According to company information published on LinkedIn, Cargo Wings Express currently employs between 51 and 200 staff members.
Tunisia’s cargo aviation market already includes established operators such as Tunisair Cargo and Express Air Cargo, the latter founded in 2015 and operating scheduled services across Africa and Europe with a fleet of three Boeing 737-300 freighters. The entry of Cargo Wings Express is expected to add further capacity and competition within the regional air freight sector.
Cargo Air, the lessor of the aircraft, is an experienced operator in the global cargo market, providing aircraft to express and mail operators including DHL and UPS, as well as offering ad hoc charter services worldwide for dangerous goods, special cargo, and oversized freight. This partnership provides Cargo Wings Express with proven aircraft platforms and operational backing as it enters the market.
With its fleet acquisition, training partnerships, and strategic base in Tunis, Cargo Wings Express is positioning itself as a new player in North Africa’s growing air cargo and logistics ecosystem.
