Hungary Airlines is reshaping its cargo fleet, with one Airbus A330 set to leave the airline’s operation while a Boeing 777 freighter has joined its rapidly expanding network. The carrier is also preparing to launch live-animal and temperature-sensitive cargo services later this year.

Airbus A330 to leave Hungary Airlines fleet

Hungary Airlines is undergoing another significant change to its fleet as the Airbus A330-243P2F registered as HA-ZTO is put up for sale.

The aircraft is owned by Hong Kong-based ZTO Airlines and has been operated by Hungary Airlines. Gábor Talabos, the airline’s managing and operations director, told AIRportal.hu in an interview that the aircraft will remain under Hungary Airlines’ operation until the sale is completed. The carrier will therefore continue to be responsible for maintaining the aircraft’s airworthiness during the transition.

The A330-243P2F was converted from a passenger aircraft into a freighter. However, it will no longer form part of Hungary Airlines’ long-term operating model.

Meanwhile, the Hungarian state-owned Airbus A330-243F, registered as HA-LHU, is expected to return to full operations at the end of September following extensive maintenance. The aircraft’s major C-check was originally scheduled for July and August but was extended into September because of delays in supply chains.

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Hungary Airlines targets new cargo markets

The airline says it will continue operating with a renewed logistics and operational structure, an adjusted route network and an expanded range of cargo services.

One of the most significant changes will be the introduction of live-animal and temperature-sensitive cargo transport during the third quarter of 2026. The services will be supported by real-time temperature monitoring throughout the transportation process.

The changes come as the European air-cargo market adapts to new EU rules affecting low-value shipments.

A EUR 3 customs charge introduced in July has already had a noticeable impact on the volume of air cargo linked to e-commerce across Europe. According to Talabos, the effect has been widespread, forcing airlines and other industry players to adapt their operations in a relatively short period.

The market now appears to be stabilising, although uncertainty remains over a further EUR 2 handling charge reportedly planned for November. Hungary Airlines said it had managed to navigate the initial disruption through advance planning and operational preparations.

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Boeing 777 joins the fleet

While one A330 is preparing to leave, Hungary Airlines has also strengthened its cargo operation with a much larger aircraft. A Boeing 777 freighter arrived in Budapest in June and has already begun carrying out daily cargo flights.

The aircraft previously operated as a passenger aircraft for Emirates before being converted for cargo operations. The 777 freighter is among the world’s largest and most capable twin-engine cargo aircraft, offering substantial cargo capacity and long-range capabilities.

Its characteristics make it particularly suitable for long-haul freight operations between Europe and Asia — a market that is becoming increasingly important for Hungary Airlines.

The airline’s strategy is to strengthen Budapest’s position as a major air-cargo hub between Europe and Asia, particularly in connection with growing logistics links between China and the European market.

Airline continues to pursue a multi-aircraft operation

Despite the sale of the HA-ZTO, Hungary Airlines says it remains committed to expanding beyond a single-aircraft operation. The company is actively examining fleet expansion and leasing options that could allow additional aircraft to enter service.

Talabos said the airline already has the professional expertise, operational experience and resources needed to support a larger fleet.

The 31 August test flight of the HA-ZTO also provided an opportunity to strengthen those capabilities. Until the aircraft’s sale is completed, Hungary Airlines remains responsible for keeping it in an airworthy condition.

The test flight fulfilled the requirements associated with keeping the aircraft in a flight-ready parking status, including the required periodic flight cycle. It also allowed three of the airline’s pilots to complete the highest, Level A, stage of Airbus’ Technical Flight Familiarisation programme.

The newly acquired expertise will also prove useful when the state-owned HA-LHU returns to Hungary, as it will need test and check flights before resuming commercial operations.

Featured image: illustration. Photo: Hungary Airlines