SEATTLE (September 29, 2016) – Cargolux has taken delivery of its 14th Boeing 747-8F.
The aircraft, registered LX-VCN and named Spirit of Schengen, is the last of the 747-8Fs that the carrier had on firm order. The order for this 14th frame was placed in February 2014.
“This is really the celebration of a partnership between the Boeing company and Cargolux, and it’s a relationship that’s incredibly important to us,” said Monty Oliver, vice president of European sales at Boeing Commercial Airplanes, speaking at a ceremony at the Everett Delivery Centre. “Cargolux has been instrumental in the development of the 747-8F. Boeing is honoured to have a valued partner in Cargolux and to celebrate your 14th 747-8F aircraft.”
According to Cargolux, the aircraft was originally scheduled to be delivered in 2017, but the board of directors decided in August 2016 to bring forward the delivery due to market demand during the upcoming peak season.
The carrier was the launch customer for the 747-8F in 2005 with an order for 10 and first took delivery in October 2011.
“Cargolux operates in a highly competitive market,” said Richard Forson, president and CEO of Cargolux. “In such an environment, an aircraft that combines economic efficiency with high earning potential gives a clear advantage. I see the 747-8F as an industry stalwart; this aircraft has already proven its worth for Cargolux in five years of reliable and efficient operation and it will continue to drive growth and revenues for Cargolux in the years to come.”
LX-VCN departed Seattle for Los Angeles, where it will pick up revenue-generating cargo before heading back to Luxembourg.
The Cargolux group now has an all-747 fleet of 12 747-400Fs and 14 747-8Fs.
