Emirates Targets New-Gen Widebody Freighters Order by 2027

Emirates (EK), based at Dubai International, is gearing up to place an order for cutting-edge widebody freighters, considering either A350Fs or B777-8Fs in the next four years. In an exclusive interview with Bloomberg, Senior Vice-President of Emirates SkyCargo, Nabil Sultan, highlighted the airline’s strategic approach, leveraging its substantial fleet of B777-300(ER)s as a valuable resource for potential Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) conversions.

Sultan stated, “We have a lot of opportunities to convert a lot of these aircraft. We will evaluate, hopefully by 2027, whether we require a different mix to what we have already.”

Emirates currently holds orders for both new-generation aircraft types in passenger configuration, with plans to integrate fifty A350-900s and 115 B777-9s into its fleet. In comparison, regional competitors like Etihad Airways have committed to seven A350Fs, and Qatar Airways has a substantial order for thirty-four B777-8Fs, according to data from the ch-aviation fleets advanced module.

The airline presently operates eleven B777-200Fs, with an additional five on order, slated for delivery between 2024-2025. In the interim, Emirates engages in wet leasing, utilizing Boeing 747-400 freighters from Moldova’s Aerotranscargo and Kalitta Air. Furthermore, the carrier increased its commitment to freighter conversions, partnering with Israel Aerospace Industries for ten B777-300ERs, although no conversions have commenced to date. Emirates’ passenger B777-300ER fleet comprises 123 units.

Despite a recent dip in cargo rates, Sultan emphasized that they remain 20% above pre-pandemic levels. He highlighted the stabilization of these rates, indicating Emirates SkyCargo’s optimistic outlook and anticipation of sustained growth.