London Stansted-based passenger and freight operator Titan Airways, which celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2018, is introducing a second Boeing 737-400 jet to its fleet.

Configured with 146 leather seats, the aircraft has undergone a comprehensive cabin refresh in preparation for entry to the charter market this month. It will perform passenger charter and airline sub-charter operations until October, at which time it will be converted to a freighter, becoming Titan's third freight-capable unit. The company's fleet currently includes one dedicated freight unit and one quick-change unit, which is utilised for passenger and cargo.

Business development director Alastair Kiernan comments: “Since our earliest days, Titan Airways has performed both passenger and freight charter operations and this diversity has always been our strength. Today, we see a gap in the European freight market that G-POWS will fit nicely into after its conversion in the autumn. Until then, the aircraft will fulfil buoyant demand for medium capacity passenger aircraft on short and medium haul flights.”

The B737 already has some summer 2018 dates confirmed. Prior to conversion, it is being targeted at tour operators but will also carry out rapid response AOG recoveries, stepping in for third-party carriers at short notice to resolve operational issues.