Join me on the last flight of Air Hong Kong A300-600F and experience life as a cargo pilot.

Air Hong Kong is an all-cargo airline based in Hong Kong. The airline operates for DHL to 13 destinations in nine countries with a fleet of 13 A330F. The airline is retiring its last A300-600F in June 2025. I was able to fly on the mighty A300F from Hong Kong to Osaka Kansai and back, not only to experience the flight but also to experience life as a cargo pilot by following the crew on the entire duty trip.

I met up with Captain Scott and First Officer Frankie, who operate the flight at 2am in Hong Kong Airport. Welcome to the secret world of air cargo. A lot of busy happenings in the middle of the night before our takeoff. Captain Scott gave a quick orientation of the A300F and discussed tonight’s flight plan to Osaka Kansai.

After a delay in the air, we encountered some thunderstorm activity near Taiwan and then saw a beautiful sunrise as we headed East. Both pilots discussed the A300's handling characteristics and their experiences as cargo pilots.

After landing in Kansai, we’re off to the hotel for 14 14-hour layover. We met again in the evening and were ready to head back to Hong Kong. The cargo pilot's life story continues…