As the A330-700L Beluga XL has joined the backbone of the Airbus Transport International fleet with five airframes in service between 2019 and 2023, and number 6 underway, the need for the classic A300-600ST Beluga became less obvious. Given the posibilities to transport oversized payload in the Beluga cargobay the roadpath to create a stand-alone airline with the classic Beluga started in January 2022. In between the hurdles of Covid and the Ukraine-Russia conflict, all needed formalities and requirements have been met allowing commerical operations next to their own cargo operations with the Beluga XL. 

 

Currently AiBT main customers are Airbus Helicopter (capable of hauling models like the NH90, H225, H160 and CH-53 inside) and Airbus Defence and Space (satellite modules, space rocket segments). This list is expanding this year as the market remains in high demand with decreased options as available Antonov 124 and Ilyushin 76 capacity declined over the last couple of years. 

 

At this moment AiBT, is operating three Beluga airframes #2, #3 and #5 (F-GSTB/GSTC/GSTF). Beluga #4 (F-GSTD) is still operating with Airbus Transport International and is expected to migrate to AiBT when the sixth Beluga XL is delivered later this year. Beluga #1 (F-GSTA)  has been kept in storage at Bordeaux since 29 April 2021 and seems to be a spareparts provider for the time being. 

 

The AiBT flights will be operated under BCO-flightnumbers, compared to BGA for the Airbus Transport International flights you normally see operating through-out Europe.