Emirates targets 3-pronged freighter strategy 

Emirates is eyeing both Airbus’ A350F and Boeing’s 777-8F as it looks to operate a freighter fleet that includes current-generation production 777Fs, 777-300ER conversions and a new generation large widebody. 

The Dubai-based carrier sees a need for a long-haul, heavy-duty freighter capable of carrying 110-120 tonnes. Scaling up Emirates’ main-deck capacity will also help it feed the bellies of the passenger widebodies the group has incoming, Senior Vice President of Freighters and Cargo Planning Nadeem Sultan told Cargo Facts at the IATA World Cargo Symposium in Hong Kong this month. 

In the meantime, Emirates expects to take delivery this year of five new 777Fs it ordered from Boeing in 2022, although the delivery timeline has slipped because of GE90 engine delays, Sultan confirmed. 

These 777Fs will likely replace older units that Emirates has on lease from DAE Capital. The airline had leased thirteen 777Fs but returned four during the past five years and added two new units in 2022. The nine leased freighters range from 2012 to 2015 vintage. 

Emirates is also set to send its first 777-300ER to the Etihad Engineering facility for conversion with IAI this year as part of a deal for ten 777-300ERSF conversions. 

The ten aircraft earmarked for conversion are still flying in passenger service, but the first will be released as soon as IAI receives its STC and the carrier may decide to convert more of its 777-300ERs, Sultan told Cargo Facts. 

Emirates’ closest neighbors have already made their choice for next-generation widebody freighters. Etihad Airways ordered seven A350Fs in early 2022, while Qatar Airways is Boeing’s launch customer for the 777-8F with a firm order for thirty-four, even as it continues to add more current-generation 777Fs. 

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