Emirates SkyCargo has added two Boeing 747-400F freighters to its fleet, demonstrating its firm confidence in the volatile global cargo market.
The cargo division of Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, anticipates the addition of 15 new freighters from announced orders and its freighter conversion programme, as well as an increase in belly-hold capacity from new passenger aircraft deliveries beginning with Airbus A350s in late summer 2024, followed by 777-Xs the following year.
Over the next ten years, Emirates SkyCargo expects to double its current capacity, add over 20 new destinations to its freighter network, and provide even more flexibility and services to its customers with a fleet of over 300 wide-body aircraft, including 777s, 777-Fs, 747-Fs, A350s, and A380s.
The Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo, Nabil Sultan, stated, “While the current market volatility may cause others to hesitate, Emirates SkyCargo is pushing full steam ahead with our plans. The medium to long term projections for global air cargo show an upward trajectory of between 3-5%. Combine that Dubai’s strategy to double its foreign trade where multi-modal logistics will play a big role, and the economic activity happening in markets around the Gulf, West Asia, and Africa, and the opportunity for Emirates SkyCargo is clear.”
He added that the two new 747-Fs that Emirates has leased will provide the airline with immediate capacity while they await the delivery of five new 777Fs in 2024 and 2025 and ten 777-300ERs over the next five years. The airline believes that these additional flights are insufficient. By then, Emirates will have the MRO infrastructure in place to scale up their freighter conversion programme swiftly and efficiently if necessary.
The two Boeing 747-Fs secured on a long-term wet-lease basis complement Emirates SkyCargo’s existing fleet of eleven Boeing 777 freighters and are presently deployed to Chicago three times per week and Hong Kong nine times per week.
He added, “The new aircraft mean we can expand our freighter network and amplify the connectivity with the main Emirates network. The new fleet mix also gives us more flexibility to serve our different customers even better. Emirates SkyCargo is also investing to develop new products, and to speed up digitisation and technology innovation. It is our ambition to lead the market in delivering specialist solutions that are fast, reliable, flexible, and efficient. More exciting developments to come. Stay tuned.”
Emirates SkyCargo debuted a brand-new advertising campaign last week, highlighting how “The World Works Better with Emirates SkyCargo.” Through everyday scenarios, the advertisement demonstrates how crucial its logistics business is to connecting people and products across the globe, whether it’s life-saving medical supplies, fresh produce, blossoms, pets, or valuables.
