MSC Air Cargo adds second Italian-registered 777F to long-haul fleet
The aircraft is the second widebody freighter registered in Italy under MSC Air’s European air operator certificate.
MSC Air Cargo has taken delivery of its second Italian-registered Boeing 777-200 Freighter, expanding long-haul capacity as air freight markets continue to adjust to demand and capacity shifts. The aircraft, registered as I-MSCB Bellatrix, was handed over by Boeing at the Everett Delivery Centre in Washington, strengthening the carrier’s ability to serve intercontinental trade flows. This delivery marks Boeing’s first 777 Freighter handover of 2026.
The additional freighter is expected to support growth on Asia–Europe corridors, where long-haul momentum has been returning. MSC Air Cargo said further route details will be communicated later, indicating a phased approach to network deployment aligned with market requirements.
The aircraft follows the induction of MSC Air Cargo’s first fully owned Boeing 777 Freighter, named Alfirk. The carrier is scheduled to take delivery of one more 777F later this year as part of its fleet expansion plan.
The aircraft is the second widebody freighter registered in Italy under MSC Air’s European air operator certificate. The registration reflects the group’s strategy of building its aviation footprint within Europe while integrating air cargo more closely into the wider MSC logistics network spanning sea, road, and rail.
“The addition of a second Boeing 777 Freighter operated by MSC Air marks another important step in our operational growth and commitment to the European market. This expansion enhances our capacity and operational flexibility, enabling us to provide even more reliable and tailored solutions for our customers. Our focus remains on delivering customer-centric services that meet the evolving needs of global trade,” said Anders Matikka, Vice President of MSC Air Cargo.
Boeing said the delivery reinforces MSC Air Cargo’s long-term fleet plans and its focus on operating efficiency across global gateways. “With today’s newest 777 Freighter delivery, MSC Air Cargo continues to invest in its future by further enhancing the capability of its global network. The 777 Freighter is the most fuel-efficient aircraft in its class and will connect MSC’s global gateways to key international markets, offering unmatched operating efficiencies. MSC Air Cargo’s continued confidence in the 777 Freighter programme is testament to the aeroplane’s outstanding capabilities in supporting global cargo demand,” said Ricardo Cavero, Vice President of Boeing Commercial Sales & Marketing Europe & Israel.
As of 31 December 2025, Boeing reported an unfilled order backlog of 52 Boeing 777 Freighters. During 2025, the manufacturer delivered 35 aircraft of this type, reflecting sustained demand for long-haul freighter capacity.
MSC Air Cargo said the 777F platform aligns with the group’s ESG priorities by lowering emissions per tonne of cargo compared with earlier freighter generations. The aircraft also supports the expansion of specialised air cargo products, including Shipped Fresh, Shipped Pharma, and Shipped Special, which serve sectors such as automotive, high-tech, perishables, aerospace, and other time-critical industries.
Since launching operations three years ago, MSC Air Cargo has expanded from a single aircraft to a growing fleet and network, anchored by European operations. The carrier said the latest delivery underlines its roadmap for scaling air cargo capacity in line with global trade requirements and integrated logistics offerings..
