- Announces 2 new Boeing 747-F leases which add immediate capacity, and signal confidence in global cargo market.
- Emirates fleet of over 300 aircraft by mid-2030 will offer expanded cargo flexibility, capacity and capability from a mix of belly-hold on A350s, A380s, 777s, and on dedicated freighters.
Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo division of the world’s largest international airline, has recently bolstered its freighter fleet by adding two Boeing 747-400Fs. This move demonstrates the company’s strong confidence in the global cargo market despite ongoing volatility.
In addition to the new additions, Emirates SkyCargo has announced plans to acquire 15 more freighters through orders and its freighter conversion program. The company will also benefit from increased belly-hold capacity with the arrival of new passenger aircraft, starting with Airbus A350s in late summer 2024, followed by 777-Xs in the following year.
Over the next ten years, Emirates SkyCargo aims to double its existing capacity, expand its freighter network to include over 20 new destinations, and enhance its services and flexibility for customers. The company plans to achieve this through a diverse fleet mix comprising more than 300 wide-body aircraft, including 777s, 777-Fs, 747-Fs, A350s, and A380s.
Nabil Sultan, Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo, emphasized the company’s commitment to its plans despite market volatility. He highlighted the projected growth of global air cargo, expected to increase between 3-5% in the medium to long term. Sultan also cited Dubai’s strategy to double its foreign trade and the economic activity in markets across the Gulf, West Asia, and Africa as further opportunities for Emirates SkyCargo.
Sultan noted that while the newly leased 747-Fs provide immediate capacity, the forthcoming delivery of five new 777Fs in 2024 and 2025, as well as the conversion of ten 777-300ERs over the next five years, will still not be sufficient. To address potential capacity needs, Emirates SkyCargo is prepared to quickly and efficiently scale-up its freighter conversion program, supported by a dedicated MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) setup.
The two new Boeing 747-Fs, secured on a long-term wet-lease basis, complement Emirates SkyCargo’s existing fleet of 11 Boeing 777 freighters. Currently, they are being deployed three times weekly to Chicago and nine times weekly to Hong Kong, expanding the company’s freighter network and strengthening connectivity with the main Emirates network.
Sultan expressed excitement about the expanded fleet mix, which provides greater flexibility to serve diverse customer needs. Emirates SkyCargo is also investing in the development of new products and accelerating digitization and technology innovation. The company aims to be a market leader in delivering fast, reliable, flexible, and efficient specialist solutions. Further developments are expected, underscoring the company’s commitment to continuous improvement.
Recently, Emirates SkyCargo launched a creative advertising campaign titled ‘The World Works Better with Emirates SkyCargo,’ showcasing the vital role of its logistics business in connecting people and products worldwide. Through relatable scenarios, the campaign illustrates how Emirates SkyCargo facilitates the transportation of essential items such as healthcare supplies, fresh produce, flowers, pets, and valuables.
