Emirates SkyCargo places $1bn Boeing 777 freighters order

Emirates SkyCargo, the cargo division of the world’s largest international airline, has placed a firm order for five additional Boeing 777 freighters, with deliveries scheduled between 2025 and 2026.

This $1bn investment will increase the airline’s total order book to 315 wide-body aircraft.

Emirates’ financial performance

Emirates SkyCargo reported outstanding performance in the first quarter of its 2024-25 financial year, with load factors and tonnage exceeding 2019 levels.

The introduction of the new freighters will boost available main deck cargo capacity by 30 per cent, enabling the airline to better serve key markets and meet the growing demands of global customers.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates Airline and Group, commented: “The demand for our world-class product and services is growing exponentially, further driven by Dubai’s Economic Agenda, which aims to double foreign trade and reinforce the city’s position as a global trading hub. This investment in additional Boeing 777 capacity allows us to cater to customer demand and represents a significant step forward in our long-term strategic growth plan.

“Our next strategic phase will include a comprehensive review of future freighter fleet options to ensure we are equipped to meet the evolving demands of the market, reaffirming our confidence in the role of airfreight, and specifically Emirates SkyCargo, in global trade.”

Emirates SkyCargo fleet

Emirates SkyCargo’s fleet includes 777s, 777-Fs, 747Fs, A350s, and A380s.

Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, stated: “We are honoured that Emirates SkyCargo, renowned for operational excellence and innovation, has once again chosen the Boeing 777 Freighter to expand its global network.”

“We deeply value Emirates’ trust in the Boeing widebody family and are committed to supporting their long-term strategic growth plan.”

With the phased delivery of the new aircraft, Emirates SkyCargo will retire older freighters, maintaining its commitment to operating one of the youngest and most efficient fleets in the industry.

Alongside the ten Boeing 777Fs on order, the airline’s cargo capabilities will be enhanced by the ten 777-300ERs currently being converted into freighters, bringing Emirates’ freighter fleet to 17 aircraft by the end of 2025.

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