Emirates Expands Cargo Capacity with New Boeing Orders

Emirates has placed an order for five additional Boeing 777 freighters, aiming to expand its cargo capacity in response to strong customer demand, the company stated.

Delivery Timeline

The new aircraft are set to be delivered between 2025 and 2026. The airline now awaits a total of 14 Boeing 777F deliveries from Boeing over the next two years.

Statement from Leadership

> “We’re investing in new freighter aircraft to meet surging demand and provide our customers around the world with even more flexibility, connectivity, and options to leverage market opportunity,” said HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive at Emirates Airline and Group.

Cargo Operations Strategy

This purchase is part of Emirates' broader strategy to grow its cargo operations centered on Emirates SkyCargo. By December 2026, the airline expects to operate 21 Boeing 777 freighters, expanding from its current fleet of 11 units. The fleet growth will be supported by a newly extended lease agreement with Dubai Aerospace Enterprise for four more Boeing 777 freighters.

Conversion of Passenger Planes

In addition to acquiring new aircraft, Emirates plans to convert 10 Boeing 777-300ER passenger planes into freighters to further increase its cargo capacity.

Complementing Freighter Operations

The airline will leverage its wide-body passenger fleet, which includes the 777s, A350s, and A380s, to complement its freighter operations, ensuring flexibility and efficiency in global goods movement.

Airport Expansion Plans

Dubai's plans to expand Al Maktoum International Airport will be essential for this growth. The airport is projected to become the world’s largest cargo hub, with the capacity to handle up to 12 million tonnes of cargo annually.

Future Fleet Considerations

Emirates also intends to expand its freighter fleet beyond 2026, considering the Boeing 777-8F and Airbus A350-1000F. A decision on which aircraft will be included in the fleet from 2028 onwards will be made by the end of this year.

Market Impact

Shares of Boeing were up 2.9% in pre-open trade on Monday.