Emirates SkyCargo orders 5 Boeing 777Fs
Order marks next milestone on airline’s long-term strategy, boosting main deck cargo capacity by 30%
Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo arm of the world’s largest international airline, has announced a firm order for an additional five Boeing 777 freighters, with immediate delivery between 2025 and 2026.
The $1 billion order will take the airline’s total order book to 315 wide-body aircraft, says an official release.
"Emirates SkyCargo performance throughout Q1 of its current 2024-25 financial year has been exceptional, with consistently high load factors and tonnages surpassing 2019 figures. Once the new aircraft enter in service, available main deck cargo capacity will increase by 30 percent, allowing the airline to deploy much-needed space into key markets and better serve global customers."
The 777 freighter can fly 9,200 kilometres/4,970 nautical miles and carry more freight (112 tonnes) than any other twin-engine cargo jet, says a release from Boeing. "This range and payload capability allows operators to offer more long-range, nonstop flights to connect markets such as the Middle East with the U.S. and Europe – linking critical high-value cargo markets without refuelling."
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates airline and Group says: "Demand for our world-class product and services is growing exponentially, further amplified by Dubai’s economic agenda which aims to double foreign trade and reinforce the city’s position as a global trading hub. This investment in additional Boeing 777 capacity enables us to cater to customer demand and marks a step forward on our long-term strategic growth plan.
"The next phase of our strategy will include a full assessment for our future freighter fleet reviewing all aircraft options to ensure we are best equipped to respond to the evolving demands of the market and reaffirming our confidence in the role of airfreight and, more specifically, Emirates SkyCargo, in global trade.”
Stephanie Pope, President and CEO, Boeing Commercial Airplanes adds: "We are honoured that Emirates SkyCargo, renowned for operational excellence and innovation, has once again selected the Boeing 777 freighter to extend the reach of its global network. We deeply value Emirates’ trust in the Boeing widebody family and are committed to supporting their long-term strategic growth plan."
With the staggered delivery of its new aircraft, Emirates SkyCargo will retire older freighters, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to operating one of the youngest and most efficient fleets in the sky. In addition to the 10 Boeing 777Fs on order, the airline’s cargo capabilities will be bolstered by the 10 777-300ERs currently being converted into freighters, taking Emirates’ freighter fleet to 17 aircraft by the end of 2025, the release added.
