DOHA- Qatar Airways Cargo’s (QF) Boeing 747F, with the registration A7-BGB, has completed its final commercial cargo service as the airline accelerates its commitment to more sustainable aviation.
The aircraft, arriving from Barcelona (BCN), conducted its last landing in Doha (DOH) at 15:00 local time on Friday, March 1, 2024.
Qatar Airways Cargo Retires Last 747
Having joined the Qatar Airways Cargo fleet on September 26, 2017, A7-BGB has been in service for seven years. During this time, these two iconic freighter aircraft were utilized on more than 9,000 flights, accumulating over 66,000 block hours and collectively transporting nearly 800,000 tonnes of cargo.
Throughout its operational tenure, the Boeing 747 served numerous destinations, with Incheon being the top location with 1,165 flights. Other key destinations included Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Guangzhou, all ranking among the top 10 served by the cargo aircraft.
From transporting up to 30 racing cars to accommodating as many as 90 thoroughbred race horses in a single flight, Qatar Airways Cargo’s Boeing 747 freighters have reliably and safely transported various cargo for international customers.
During the pandemic, these aircraft also played a crucial role by transporting PPE and other medical equipment worldwide when many of the world’s aircraft were grounded.
Executive Remarks
Mark Drusch, Chief Officer Cargo at Qatar Airways Cargo, remarked, “When we introduced our Boeing 747 freighters to the Qatar Airways Cargo fleet seven years ago, it was in response to a significant surge in customer demand for capacity, a demand that we swiftly met.
“Our Next Generation freighter strategy is shaped by evolving customer expectations and our steadfast commitment to sustainability and efficiency. Efficiency is achieved through fleet harmonization and simplification, while sustainability is enhanced by incorporating the latest in-flight and fuel technology. For these critical considerations, Qatar Airways Cargo proudly stands as the launch customer for Boeing’s next-generation 777-8F freighter, recognized as the most fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly freighter in the cargo industry. Our commitment is to maintain the industry’s most modern and environmentally friendly freighter fleet.”
Making Way for Next-Gen Freighter Jets
Qatar Airways Cargo has a solid order for 34 Boeing 777-8F aircraft, with an additional option for 16 more, supplementing its existing fleet of 27 Boeing 777 Freighters (with the 28th 777F set to join in mid-March).
Equipped with cutting-edge technology systems, airframes, and engines, the 777-8 Freighter is poised to become the industry’s most efficient, largest long-range, and capable twin-engine widebody freighter.
It is estimated to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 30% compared to the 747-8.
Qatar Airways Cargo is the world’s premier international air cargo carrier. Operating a comprehensive network, the airline connects to over 70 freighter destinations and 170 passenger destinations through a combination of freighters and belly-hold passenger aircraft. The extensive freighter fleet comprises 27 Boeing 777 freighters, complemented by an additional 230 belly-hold planes.
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