Emirates (EK, Dubai International) has ordered two B777-Fs from Boeing and four B777-300(ER)(SF)s from Israel Aerospace Industries.
The two new-build freighters will be delivered in April and June 2022 respectively while the P2F B777-300(ER)s, according to IAI, will undergo cargo conversion at Etihad Airways' MRO hub in Abu Dhabi International from early 2023 through 2024 with each aircraft taking up to an estimated five months for the process. The agreement also includes an option for further B777-300(ER) conversions at a later stage. Neither Emirates nor IAI would disclose the identity of the aircraft to be used.
"Emirates plays a key role in making essential goods available to customers and consumers globally through the capacity available on our widebody fleet, the reach of our global network and the advanced infrastructure at our Dubai hub," Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive, Emirates Airline and Group, said during the 2021 Dubai Air Show. "Today, we are delighted to announce an investment of USD1 billion to further expand our freighter capacity. This underscores our commitment to supporting our customers' requirements, and reflects our confidence in our future growth and status as one of the largest airline cargo carriers in the world."
According to the ch-aviation fleets module, Emirates operates ten B777-Fs at present.
Editorial Comment: Updates with Emirates press release - 17Nov2021 - 08:52 UTC