Freight Atlas Air orders four additional Boeing 747-8 Freighter

Atlas Air Worldwide and Boeing have signed a purchase agreement for four Boeing 747-8 Freighters. This order allows Atlas Air to further leverage the advantages of the aircraft to meet the ever-growing demand for cargo around the globe.

Especially during the Coronavirus crisis, the demand in the e-commerce industry has reached new heights. Furthermore, medical supplies like face masks or the new vaccines need to be transported and delivered around the world. Over the course of the crisis, many carriers decided to strengthen their cargo operations with additional aircraft and frequencies.

John W. Dietrich, Atlas Air Worldwide President and Chief Executive Officer, explained:
“The 747-8F is the best and most versatile widebody freighter in the market, and we are excited to bolster our fleet with the acquisition of these four aircraft […] This significant growth opportunity will enable us to capitalize on strong demand and deliver value for our existing and prospective customers.”

Stan Deal, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, added:

“The 747 will forever hold a special place in aviation history and we are honored by Atlas Air’s longstanding commitment to the airplane. Atlas Air began operations 28 years ago with a single 747 and it is fitting that they should receive the last 747 production airplanes, ensuring that the ‘Queen of the Skies’ plays a significant role in the global air cargo market for decades to come […] With the global air cargo fleet expected to grow by more than 60% over the next 20 years, we look forward to delivering these airplanes and supporting Atlas Air’s Boeing fleet well into the future.”

Atlas Air is the largest 747 operator in the world with 53 of the iconic aircraft in its fleet. The carrier is already operating with four Boeing 747-8, the latest iteration of the famous queen of the skies. The aircraft is capable of carrying a maximum payload of 137,750kg and features less noisy and more efficient engines.

Boeing has stated, that these ordered four aircraft will be the final four aircraft to roll off the production line in Everett, Washington. Over the decades, the 747 program has produced 1,560 aircraft since launching 50 years ago. Boeing announced to close the production of the aircraft in 2022.