DUBAI- Emirates (EK) is considering Airbus A350F and Boeing 777-8F to establish a freighter fleet comprising current-generation 777Fs, 777-300ER conversions, and a next-generation large widebody aircraft.
The airline headquartered in Dubai recognizes the requirement for a long-distance, heavy-duty freighter capable of transporting 110-120 tonnes.
Emirates Cargo Aircraft Fleet
Expanding Emirates’ main-deck capacity is anticipated to facilitate the accommodation of cargo for the incoming widebody passenger aircraft, as highlighted by Nadeem Sultan, Senior Vice President of Freighters and Cargo Planning, during an interview with Cargo Facts at the IATA World Cargo Symposium held in Hong Kong this month.
Emirates is pursuing a three-pronged strategy for its freighter operations. The airline received two new 777Fs in 2022 and is slated to receive five additional units this year, as per Sultan’s confirmation. However, delays in GE90 engine deliveries have caused a setback in the delivery schedule.
These newly acquired 777Fs are expected to replace older aircraft currently leased from DAE Capital. Over the past five years, Emirates has returned four leased 777Fs while adding two new ones in 2022. The nine remaining leased freighters in Emirates’ fleet range in vintage from 2012 to 2015.
Conversion Of Boeing 777-300ER
Emirates plans to send its inaugural 777-300ER to the Etihad (EY) Engineering facility for modification with IAI this year under a contract for ten 777-300ERSF conversions.
Although the designated ten planes are currently in operation for passenger service, the initial conversion is scheduled for release upon IAI’s receipt of its STC. Thereafter, Emirates may opt to proceed with additional 777-300ER conversions, according to Sultan’s remarks to Cargo Facts.
In contrast, Emirates’ neighboring airlines have already selected next-gen widebody freighters. Etihad Airways secured seven A350Fs in early 2022. Qatar Airways (QR) is Boeing’s inaugural customer for the 777-8F, with a confirmed order for thirty-four units, while expanding its fleet of current-generation 777Fs.
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