SF Airlines adds second 747-400ERF

Shenzhen-based SF Airlines’ second 747-400ERF (35174, ex-Jade Cargo) has officially joined the carrier’s freighter fleet [FAT 005129]. Including the 757-200PCF (29441, ex-TUI Airways) redelivered to SF last week, the carrier’s fleet now numbers 57 freighters.

The widebody freighter was one of a pair of 747-400ERFs SF won in an auction that took place on Alibaba’s Taobao online market place in December 2017. The 747-400ERF was put into maintenance at Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) where it had previously been stored after Jade’s dissolution. Following the aircraft’s arrival at SF Airlines’ Shenzhen (SZX) headquarters on Aug. 30, the airframe has been utilized for a number of short conformity flights within China.

Although no concrete plans have been announced, unsurprisingly, SF Airlines plans to deploy the aircraft on long-haul routes. In May, SF Airlines applied for a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) exemption to operate scheduled cargo service three times per week between Hangzhou (HGH) and New York (JFK) for at least one year, beginning in fall 2019. A decision has yet to be made by the DOT.

As the carrier’s experience with its first 747-400ERF (35173) reveals, it may be a few months before the aircraft flies internationally. 35173 joined the fleet in October 2018 but did not complete its first international flight to Chennai, India (MAA) until May 15. Since then, the freighter has been making regular roundtrips between SZX and MAA.

Join us for the 25th Annual Cargo Facts Symposium, Oct. 16-18 at the InterContinental San Diego. George Li, Vice President, SF Airlines, will participate in a Fireside Chat. With unparalleled networking and continuing education opportunities, Cargo Facts Symposium consistently attracts the best in the industry. To register and for more information visit www.cargofactssymposium.com today!