Qatar Airways has finalised an order for four Boeing 777 freighters valued at $1.24bn, with purchase options on another four.
Qatar Airways first announced its intention to order four B777Fs at the 2014 Farnborough Airshow. The total order for all eight freighters has a potential combined value of $2.46bn, at current list prices
“We aim to make Qatar Airways one of the world’s major air cargo players,” said Akbar Al Baker, chief executive, Qatar Airways.
He added: “With its proven track record, long-range capabilities and excellent operational efficiencies, the 777 freighter will be a key player in enabling Qatar Airways to grow its footprint and economically delivery cargo further connecting to many long-haul destinations from our hub in Doha especially with the expansion of Doha’s new freight terminal.”
Qatar Airways currently operates a passenger fleet of 37 B777-200LRs and B777-300ERs in addition to seven B777Fs.
Ray Conner, president and chief executive, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said: “As Qatar Airways develops its cargo route network, we are pleased they have selected the B777 freighter to be part of this expansion.”
Global air freight traffic is forecast to grow at an annual rate of 4.7 per cent, doubling the cargo traffic over the next 20 years, according to the Boeing World Air Cargo Forecast released in October.
The B777F is capable of flying 4,900 nautical miles (9,070 km) with a full payload and general cargo market densities, making it the world’s longest-range twin-engine freighter.
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