Growing global air cargo demand has led FedEx Express to place a repeat order with Boeing for 24 new freighters to meet its growing demand for more lift.
The order, comprising 12 777Fs and 12 767-300Fs, is the latest investment in new equipment by FedEx, which in recent months has also become the launch customer for both the ATR 72- 600 Freighter and the Cessna SkyCourier announced last year.
The airline has ordered 30 ATR 72-600Fs (plus 20 options) and 100 examples of the SkyCourier. The deal for more Boeings is another indication of the air cargo sector’s resurgence. The market grew by 10% in 2017, and although growth this year is not anticipated to be quite as strong, it is still on course to expand by around 4–5%. The expansion is spurring demand for both new freighters and conversions of former passenger aircraft. Reflecting the rise, Boeing says it has sold more than 50 widebody freighters so far this year, including 24 more 747- 8Fs for UPS Airlines.
The new jets will add to FedEx’s Boeing freighter fleet. The carrier already operates 28 777Fs (with six more to be delivered) and 55 767Fs (with 35 more to be delivered). David L Cunningham, President and CEO of FedEx Express, commented: “The Boeing 767 and 777 Freighters have brought greater efficiency and reliability to our air operations. The 777, with its tremendous range characteristics, has allowed us to provide faster transit times around the globe. We are excited to add more of these aircraft to our fleet.” Mark Broadbent
