MENA Newswire News Desk: Emirates has placed a firm order for five additional Boeing 777 freighters, expanding its cargo fleet to meet rising demand. These aircraft are expected to be delivered between 2025 and 2026. The latest deal builds on Emirates’ existing orders, bringing the total number of pending Boeing 777F deliveries to 14, with all scheduled to arrive by the end of 2026.
In a related development, Emirates signed a multi-year lease extension with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise, securing four Boeing 777Fs currently in its fleet. By December 2026, Emirates SkyCargo expects to operate a fleet of 21 production-built Boeing 777 freighters, significantly expanding from its current 11 units. Additionally, Emirates plans to convert 10 of its passenger Boeing 777-300ERs into freighters to further boost its capacity and fleet growth.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, stated, “We’re investing in new freighter aircraft to meet surging demand and provide our customers around the world with even more flexibility, connectivity, and options to leverage market opportunities.” He also highlighted the booming demand for Emirates’ air cargo services, reflecting Dubai’s status as a global logistics hub. Emirates SkyCargo has been offering bespoke solutions to cater to various industry sectors.
Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, added, “Emirates continues to set the direction for our industry, and we deeply appreciate the trust they have placed in the Boeing widebody family to serve as the backbone of their global fleet.”
The Dubai government’s plans to expand Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) will significantly boost its capacity, ultimately allowing the hub to process 12 million tonnes of cargo annually. This supports the growth of the nearby Logistics District, planned as a base for global cargo and shipping companies. Emirates is expected to make a decision on its future freighter fleet by the end of 2024, with contenders including the Boeing 777-8F and Airbus A350-1000F.