Dubai-based air freighter Emirates SkyCargo is set to expand its capabilities to meet growing cargo demand with the order of five additional 777 Freighters to to its fleet.
The order will take Emirates’ total order book to a staggering 245 widebody Boeing planes, with 10 of those being 777 Freighters.
The 777 Freighters can fly further (9200 kilometres) and carry more freight (102 metric tons) than any other twin-engine cargo jet, which allows it to offer more long-range, non-stop flights to continue to connect markets across the globe.
The investment in the new planes will boost main cargo deck capacity by 30 per cent by 2026 and will grow Emirates’ freighter fleet to 17 planes.
SkyCargo currently delivers to two major Australian hubs – Melbourne and Sydney – and operates across South-East Asia and Oceania from its Dubai base.
Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum says the investment in the new planes represents a step forward in Emirates SkyCargo’s long-term plan.
“Demand for our world-class product and service is growing exponentially,” His Highness Al Maktoum says.
“This investment in additional Boeing 777 capacity enables us to cater to customer demand and marks a step forward in our long-term strategic growth plan.
“The next phase of our strategy will include a full assessment for our future 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.”
Boeing provides over 90 per cent of worldwide dedicated freighter capacity. The 777 freighter is the company’s best-selling freighter plane of all-time with over 265 deliveries worldwide to date.
“We are honoured Emirates SkyCargo … has once again selected the Boeing 777 Freighter to extend the reach of its global network,” President and CEO of Boeing. Commercial Airplanes Stephanie Pope says.
“We deeply value Emirates’ trust in the Boeing widebody family and are committed to supporting their long-term strategic growth plan.”
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