Taiwan’s EVA Air has finalized an order for five 777 Freighters (777Fs) from aircraft manufacturer Boeing. The order, valued at more than US$1.5 billion, will represent the first 777Fs to join EVA Air’s fleet, and the first to be delivered to a Taiwanese airline.
The airline plans to use the new freighters to bolster its fleet on trans-Pacific and Asian routes in an effort to meet growing demand in the air cargo market.
“Airfreight is an important link in global trade,” EVA Air chairman K.W. Chang said. “We are investing in the most advanced aircraft and committing ourselves to continuing to ensure efficient, reliable service.”
The airline operates more than 35 Boeing airplanes, including 20 777-300ERs. With 13 additional 777-300ERs on order—both direct purchased and leased—EVA will become one of the largest 777 operators in the world. The carrier plans to grow its operational twin-aisle fleet to more than 60 airplanes by the end of 2025.
The 777 Freighters will form the backbone of the company’s air cargo service for the next decade, EVA president Austin Cheng said. “We are pleased to be the first airline in Taiwan to introduce Boeing 777 freighters. EVA participated in development of the Boeing 777-300ER and became a launch customer. We now fly 21 Boeing 777-300ERs and have 13 more on order.”
The 777F is the world’s largest and longest range twin-engine freighter, capable of flying 4,900 nautical miles (9,070 kilometers) with a full payload at general cargo market densities. The airplane’s range capability translates into significant savings for cargo operators: fewer stops and associated landing fees, less congestion at transfer hubs, lower cargo handling costs, and shorter cargo delivery times.
According to the “Boeing World Air Cargo Forecast,” global airfreight traffic is expected to grow at an annual rate of 4.7%, doubling the cargo traffic over the next 20 years.
Boeing first announced EVA Air’s intent to order the five 777Fs at the 2015 Paris Air Show last month.
