DALLAS — Emirates (EK) is considering strengthening its fleet of Boeing 777F freighters as it anticipates a significant rise in global cargo demand.

Industry insiders tell Reuters that the airline has placed new freighter orders. The report notes that these orders were placed before Boeing announced that its 777X jetliner series would be delayed another year, pushing the launch to 2026.

In September, Boeing revealed that unidentified buyers had ordered 11 new 777F freighters. It seems EK was among the buyers. At the time, the carrier was already waiting deliveries for 205 Boeing aircraft (170 777-9 and 35 777-8).

Emirates on Alert

This week, EK President Tim Clark openly criticized Boeing for the ongoing delays, which now total six years, in delivering the new 777X series. These delays are attributed to industrial and financial challenges within Boeing. 

Clark stated that his airline had "had to make significant and highly expensive amendments to our fleet programmes as a result of Boeing’s multiple contractual shortfalls.” He also stated that, given Boeing's current circumstances, he couldn't see how Boeing could "make any meaningful forecasts of delivery dates."

Meanwhile, Aviation expert Andreas Spaeth recently tweeted that the delays were a "double whammy" for EK. The first Airbus A350 delivery has also been postponed, and the inaugural flight from Dubai to Edinburgh has been pushed to December 16, 2024.

Fleet Diversification

Despite the challenges, EK is still pressing ahead with its fleet expansion. The airline operates around a dozen 777F freighters, with four more already on order. Additionally, EK has been leasing four Boeing 747 freighters and their crews to meet growing demand.

A senior executive at EK revealed to Reuters that the airline is planning further investment in freighters, with a potential deal for newer Airbus A350 freighters and future Boeing 777X models.

Emirates is the largest operator of the Boeing 777 family. By 2030, EK aims to triple its cargo fleet, signaling its long-term commitment to dominating global cargo operations.

Emirates Cargo Operations

Emirates SkyCargo operates an extensive global air freight network, serving destinations across multiple continents.

Here are the key details about Emirates SkyCargo's routes:

Network Coverage

SkyCargo's network spans:

• Over 140 destinations across 6 continents
• More than 80 countries and territories
• A virtual network of over 270 destinations

Dedicated Cargo Operations

• SkyCargo operates dedicated cargo flights to 26 destinations from Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)
• These freighter-only routes complement the cargo capacity available on Emirates' passenger flights

Passenger Network Integration

• In addition to dedicated cargo flights, SkyCargo utilizes the belly hold capacity of Emirates' passenger fleet
• This gives access to cargo capacity on 61 additional passenger routes

Global Reach

• The network is designed to cater to two-thirds of the world's population within an 8-hour flight radius
• Dubai's strategic location allows SkyCargo to efficiently serve major international trade regions

Flexibility and Adaptability

SkyCargo offers various services to meet different shipping needs:

• General cargo transportation
• Specialized solutions for industries like pharmaceuticals, perishables, and live animals
• Charter services for customized cargo requirements

Recent Expansions

SkyCargo continues to expand its fleet and network:

• In November 2021, the airline ordered two additional Boeing 777F freighters
• A further order for five Boeing 777F freighters was placed in November 2022
• In July 2024, SkyCargo announced an order for five more Boeing 777F freighters

These expansions demonstrate EK's commitment to growing its global cargo network and capacity to meet increasing demand for air freight services.