By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo arm of the airline operator, is expecting an additional five Boeing 777 freighters between 2025 and 2026.
The new aircraft, which will gulp about $1 billion, is expected to boost the main deck cargo capacity of the company by 30 per cent, taking its total order book to 315 wide-body aircraft.
In a statement made available to Business Post on Thursday, it was disclosed that the order marks the next milestone in Emirates SkyCargo’s long-term strategy.
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.
Harnessing the Emirates passenger fleet, the cargo division will continue to facilitate the fast, reliable and efficient movement of goods worldwide, offering customers more flexibility with a fleet mix of 777s, 777-Fs, 747Fs, A350s, and A380s.
“The 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,” the chairman of Emirates Airline, Mr Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, said.
On her part, the chief executive of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Ms Stephanie Pope, said, “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 wide-body family and are committed to supporting their long-term strategic growth plan.”