Eastern Airlines acquired 35 Boeing 777s to convert into Class E cargo aircraft and launch 'Eastern Air Cargo'.

In a statement, the carrier said subject to STC (Supplemental Type Certificate) sapprovals, the Eastern 777 Express Freighter will be a fully certified cargo aircraft capable of carrying a full load of volumetric express cargo between Asia and the US.

"We are thrilled to offer this service to customers who have struggled to find capacity in the cargo market and to offer a nimble aircraft solution to serve customer needs," said Steve Harfst, Eastern Airlines President and CEO.

"This move is not just a game changer for Eastern, it will also transform the industry."

Target launch in Q1 2022

Eastern Airlines said due to enter service in 1Q2022, Eastern Air Cargo will offer general cargo sales, cargo charters, ACMI/wet leasing and dry leasing.

The Eastern 777 Express Freighter will be first to market, with the design converting the main deck cabin of the widebody 777-200, -200ER and -300 series into a true cargo aircraft.

The carrier said this will allow the entire volume of the main deck cabin to hold low density, express freight cargo.

"Our pioneering conversion method is tailored specifically to meet the needs of express package freight customers," Harfst said. "It is more efficient and cost effective allowing us to better serve the exact needs of our customers at a competitive price." 

Future derivative plans for the design include a palletized loading system and an Express Main Deck cargo door.

Eastern said the Eastern Express Freighter will not be subject to the restrictions on cargo commodities that are imposed on conventional passenger aircraft used as freighters.