Emirates has inked a firm order for five more Boeing 777 freighters, which will be delivered between 2025 and 2026. This latest commitment takes the airline’s cargo fleet expansion, as Emirates sees continued growth in global air cargo demand.
This newest order brings Emirates’ total backlog of 777Fs to 14 aircraft with delivery through the end of 2026. The airline has also signed a multi-year lease extension with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) for four Boeing 777 freighters currently in its fleet. This will see the transport division grow its cargo fleet to 21 aircraft, up from the current 11 by December 2026.
Emirates also intends to convert 10 Boeing 777-300ER passenger planes into freighters. That would further add cargo capacity and aircraft to the fleet of the airline. This will enable it to serve the growing demand for air freight in different parts of the globe.
The chairman and chief executive of Emirates Airlines and Group, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, explained the investment strategy. We are responding to this buoyant demand, and offering our customers even more flexibility, connectivity. And choice with an investment in new freighter aircraft, he added. He attributed it to Dubai’s growing importance as a global logistics hub. “The double-digit growth in demand for Emirates’ air cargo services is a testament to Dubai’s growing stature as a global logistics hub and of Emirates SkyCargo’s specialized solutions for various industries,” he said.
Stephanie Pope, president and chief executive officer, of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, lauded Emirates’ industry-leading vision. “Emirates continues to set the direction for our industry. And we deeply appreciate the trust they have placed in the Boeing widebody family to serve as the backbone of their global fleet,” said Pope.
Even while Emirates continues to grow its freighter fleet. It also operates a robust wide-body passenger fleet that carries cargo around the globe. These include 777s, 777 freighters, 747 freighters, A350s, and A380s choices that allow flexibility in options for shipment to customers.
This growth will be further supported by the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai into the world’s largest cargo hub, created to handle 12 million tonnes annually. It also will be crucial to the nearby Logistics District, anchoring such major global shipping and logistics companies.
Emirates will likely decide on its future freighter fleet from 2028 by the end of this year. With the Boeing 777-8F and Airbus A350-1000F as the lead contenders.
ANI