‍DALLAS – Atlas Air (5Y) has announced the addition of three Boeing 747-8 freighters to its fleet. This move is in response to the escalating global demand for large widebody airfreight, particularly in cross-border e-commerce.

The are speculations that the new Jumbo freighters come from AirBridgeCargo Airlines (RU), which were seized by BOC aviation after Russia's attack on Ukraine in 2022. As of March 2024, RU no longer operates any aircraft after returning their fleet to its lessors.

The new aircraft, obtained through long-term finance lease agreements with BOC Aviation, are set to be operational by late Q3 2024. This expansion will bolster  5Y’s position as the world’s largest operator of 747 freighters, highlighted by its recent acquisition of four 747-400 freighters earlier this year.

Michael Steen, CEO of Atlas Air Worldwide, emphasized the strategic importance of these additions, noting that the 747-8Fs offer significant payload capacity and unique nose-loading capabilities, which their customers highly value. Steen also indicated that the aircraft will be under long-term agreements, ensuring continued strong demand for Atlas’ services.

BOC Aviation’s CEO, Steven Townend, also praised the partnership, pointing out outsourced the aviation logistics company's ideal positioning to operate these advanced aircraft amidst record-high global airfreight volumes.

The Boeing 747-8 freighter is renowned for its technological advancements and environmental efficiency. It boasts a 20% increase in payload capacity over its predecessor, the 747-400F, and a 16% reduction in fuel consumption.

With a fleet that now includes 17 Boeing 747-8Fs, 39 Boeing 747-400Fs, plus other large cargo aircraft, 5Y continues to lead the industry in airfreight capabilities.