Qantas Freight has added the first of two Boeing 747-8F freighter aircraft to its fleet, announcing its arrival in Sydney on August 27.

The subsidiary of Australia's flag carrier said the next-generation freighters offers 20% more freight capacity and space for seven extra cargo pallets compared to the 747-400F to better meet the growing demand for freight capacity worldwide.

The new freighter plane is also more environmentally friendly.

Qantas freight executive manager Paul Jones said the B747-8F aircraft will be operated by Atlas Air on behalf of Qantas.

“More capacity and better reliability means we can continue to deliver for our customers in Australia and around the globe,” Jones said. 

“These aircraft have a far better environmental footprint, producing less carbon emissions and offering greater efficiency, something that we know is really important to our customers," he added.

The two freighters will operate between Australia, China, and the US with additional routes currently being explored. The second 747-8F aircraft will enter service later this week.

Qantas Freight said the arrival of the new aircraft follows its new seven-year agreement with Australia Post valued at A$1 billion (US$679 million) granting access to the airline's fleet of freighters and priority access to bellyhold space onboard Qantas Airways passenger flights.

The deal with Australia Post will also allow Qantas to add up to three A321 P2F-converted freighters to expand its network.