China Airlines has placed an additional order for four 777Fs with Boeing, with a contract value that could reach $1.4 billion at list values.
The Taiwanese airline had already placed a first order for six freighter aircraft in April 2019. Three of the 777Fs have already been delivered, the first in December 2020.
“The 777 Freighter has played a critical role in our efforts to maintain profitability during the pandemic, and these additional airplanes will be an integral part of our long-term growth strategy,” said China Airlines Chairman Hsieh Su-Chien. “We are excited to add more 777 Freighters due to their operational efficiency and reliability. Our fleet modernization program will enable us to deliver added value to our customers, especially as the global supply chain continues to evolve.”
The 777 freighters of the new order will be delivered in 2023, allowing China Airlines to increase its revenues in the segment. In 2021, the company increased its air cargo revenue by 186% compared to 2019, while passenger transport fell by 96%.
In addition to the 10 Boeing 777Fs, China Airlines Cargo also has 18 747-400 converted for cargo.
777XF approved
The 777 Freighter is the most successful long-range freighter today, capable of carrying up to 102 tons of cargo over a distance of 4,970 nautical miles (9,200 km).
But Boeing will have to end production in 2027 because of new environmental restrictions. This week, the company’s board approved the launch of the 777XF, a freighter variant based on the new generation of the widebody.
The model should be acquired by Qatar Airways in the coming days, marking the launch of the program, according to rumors.
