News
Boeing declares freighter market “on fire”
November 16th 2021
The observation this week by Boeing executive vice president, Stan Deal, that the freighter market is “on fire right now” was underscored by U.S. OEM’s announcements at the Dubai Airshow. Read More » The latest “on fire” order is from Middle East air freight powerhouse, Emirates Airline, which has committed to a US$1 billion order for new cargo jets. The deal covers two new 777-Fs to be delivered in April and June next year and an agreement with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to convert four B777-300ER passenger aircraft into full freighters. Conversion of the four aircraft will take place in 2023-2024 with the option to convert another freighter at a later date. "The last two years have put the spotlight on the importance of supply chain connectivity and the availability of air cargo capacity to global communities and economies, “Emirates chief executive, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, said. "Emirates plays a key role in making essential goods available to customers and consumers globally through the capacity available on our wide-body fleet, the reach of our global network and the advanced infrastructure at our Dubai hub.” Emirates has not been the only customer seeking freighters. Earlier at the airshow, DHL Express (DHL) placed its biggest ever Boeing converted freighter (BCF) order and Icelandic lessor, Icelease, ordered converted B737 cargo jets. DHL said its firm order for nine additional 767-300 BCFs will assist in modernising its long-haul intercontinental fleet so it could fly in a more eco-friendly and cost-efficient manner. Icelease, which recently expanded its cooperation with Corrum Capital through a joint venture called Carolus Cargo Leasing, ordered 11 737-800BCF jets. Boeing also said it was adding three B737 freighter conversion lines to its global network. But there was no sign of a 777X freighter announcement, although Boeing executives have said they were in advanced talks about the concept of the aircraft.
