Tennessee-based FedEx Express has introduced the first of several new 767-300 cargo jets under its fleet modernization program.
The freighter, delivered by aircraft maker Boeing last month, will begin service this year after it completes its certification process.
It is among 50 767s that FedEx has ordered, which are scheduled to be delivered through the end of the company’s fiscal year 2019.
“This is yet another positive step in our company’s fleet modernization strategy to add more efficient, lower-emission aircraft to our global fleet,” said David Bronczek, president and chief executive officer of FedEx Express. “The operational efficiencies of the 767 will mirror those of the other new aircraft types we continue to introduce.”
The new 767 joins the 757 and 777 aircraft in the company’s growing fleet of more efficient, lower-emission freighters. It is about 30 percent more fuel efficient and more than 20 percent cheaper to operate than the MD10 aircraft it will replace, said the company.
With a maximum gross payload capacity of 127,100 pounds, the medium wide-body 767 freighter has a flight range of 2,922 nautical miles.
The global express delivery service began upgrading its fleet in 2007 by adding 757 freighters to replace 727s. The last 727 in the fleet was retired in June.
In 2009, the company introduced the 777, the world’s largest twin-engine cargo freighter with a nonstop flight range of 5,800 nautical miles and a cargo capacity of 178,000 pounds.
Meanwhile, the firm announced the launch of FedEx One Rate which gives U.S. customers a simple, predictable, flat rate shipping option for their express packages. The service is also covered by the company’s money-back guarantee.
“With its simple, predictable pricing, FedEx One Rate takes convenience and flexibility to the next level for our customers,” said Raj Subramaniam, executive vice president of marketing at FedEx Services. “For consumers and small businesses alike, FedEx One Rate pricing allows customers to plan and control their express shipping costs more easily. They can add to the box without adding to the cost.”
To ship using the option, customers select their free packaging, an eligible FedEx Express domestic shipping service, and the destination. The price is then calculated based on the packaging type, service selected, and distance.
