The Lufthansa Group has given approval for Lufthansa Cargo to operate two new Boeing 777 Freighters.

According to Lufthansa Cargo, it ordered the two aircraft in May 2018 but the question of which airline in the group would manage and operate them was initially left open.

“We are thrilled to soon be welcoming two brand-new freighters to our Triple Seven fleet,” said Peter Gerber, CEO and chairman of the executive board at Lufthansa Cargo. “This major investment in the future of Lufthansa Cargo has been made possible by last year’s outstanding results. This is a fitting reward for the tremendous efforts of all Lufthansa Cargo employees and emphasises that we have taken the right course at an early stage.”

The new aircraft, which are expected to be delivered in February and March 2019, will enable Lufthansa Cargo to modernize its fleet and permanently replace older MD-11 freighters. Given the present market conditions, Lufthansa Cargo will continue to operate some of the MD-11Fs earmarked for retirement for the time being to provide customers with more cargo capacity as needed.

“This allows us to fully participate in the market growth but respond flexibly to signs of change,” said Gerber. “Accordingly, we will decide on when to phase out individual MD-11Fs based on the market situation. Our strategic goal remains to operate a solely B777F fleet going forward.”

The German carrier currently operates five 777Fs and 12 MD-11Fs.