Cargolux (CV, Luxembourg) has finalised an order for ten B777-8Fs with a further six options as a replacement for the airline's fleet of B747-400ERFs and B747-400FSCDs.
The cargo specialist announced the choice of Boeing as the supplier of its new-generation freighter during the 2022 Farnborough Air Show, but did not, at that time, disclosed the number of aircraft involved.
"The agreement we signed today will consolidate Cargolux's position as a global leader of air freight services. Replacing our ageing fleet of B747-400 freighters with the latest technology and fuel-efficient B777-8(F) model will contribute to our long-term sustainability program while continuing to offer our customers the tailored service they expect," Chief Executive and President Richard Forson said.
The airline did not disclose any delivery timelines. Boeing expects to start delivering the B777-9, the first of the B777X Family aircraft, in 2025. The first B777-8(F) for launch operator Qatar Airways (QR, Doha Hamad International) is tentatively planned for 2027.
The ch-aviation fleets module shows that Cargolux and its Cargolux Italia (C8, Milan Malpensa) subsidiary operate six B747-400ERFs (15.3 years of age on average) and ten B747-400FSCDs (19.2 years). The Luxembourgish unit also operates fourteen B747-8Fs, which are not yet up for renewal.
Forson told ch-aviation in an interview earlier this year that Cargolux would eventually transition to an all-twinjet fleet. However, as a first step, the airline was planning to replace the -400 freighters with new-generation aircraft, while keeping the -8Fs for longer.
