Introduction of New Russian-made TU-204 Cargo Plane.

Nov 7 (acn) Cubana de Aviacion airline made the commercial introduction of its new Russian-made TU-204 cargo plane.

Cubana Vice-president Barbara Barrios, along Cuba Cargo’s director, explained that the presentation is part of activities related to the 2008 Havana International Trade Fair (FIHAV), which allows Cuban companies learn more about the export-import capabilities of the airline.

Several representatives from local companies observed the TU-204 cargo plane in Terminal 5 of Jose Marti International Airport. The plane can carry up to 27 tons in its hold, and will service Caribbean and Central American routes.

In statements to the ACN news agency, Barrios announced the purchase of another similar plane that will allow the country to save on the chartering and leasing of planes.

Barrios pointed out that Cuba’s main airline has recently added to its fleet three Russian IL-96 passenger planes, mainly for flights to and from Europe, and two TU-204 planes for shorter flights to Latin America and the Caribbea