Emirates SkyCargo has announced a firm order for an additional five Boeing 777 freighters, with immediate delivery between 2025 and 2026.

The US$1 billion order will bring the airline’s total order book to 315 wide-body aircraft.

 [Source: Emirates SkyCargo]

In a statement, Emirates SkyCargo said the performance throughout Q1 of its current 2024-25 financial year has been exceptional, with consistently high load factors and tonnages surpassing 2019 figures.

It added that once the new aircraft enters service, available main deck cargo capacity will increase by 30%, allowing the airline to deploy much-needed space into key markets and better serve its global base.

"Demand for our world-class product and services is growing exponentially, further amplified by Dubai's Economic Agenda, which aims to double foreign trade and reinforce the city's position as a global trading hub," said His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, chairman and chief executive, Emirates airline and Group.

"This investment in additional Boeing 777 capacity enables us to cater to customer demand and marks a step forward on our long-term strategic growth plan," he added.

"The next phase of the company's strategy will include a full assessment of our future freighter fleet, reviewing all aircraft options to ensure we are best equipped to respond to the evolving demands of the market and reaffirming our confidence in the role of airfreight and, more specifically, Emirates SkyCargo, in global trade," the company's chief executive further said.

Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, welcomed the additional orders from Emirates SkyCargo.

"We are honoured that Emirates SkyCargo, renowned for operational excellence and innovation, has once again selected the Boeing 777 Freighter to extend the reach of its global network," she said.

"We deeply value Emirates' trust in the Boeing widebody family and are committed to supporting their long-term strategic growth plan," the Boeing chief added.

With the staggered delivery of its new aircraft, Emirates SkyCargo will retire older freighters, reinforcing the airline's commitment to operating one of the youngest and most efficient fleets in the sky.

In addition to the 10 Boeing 777Fs on order, the airline's cargo capabilities will be bolstered by the 10 777-300ERs currently being converted into freighters, taking Emirates' freighter fleet to 17 aircraft by the end of 2025.

"Harnessing the Emirates passenger fleet, the cargo division will continue to facilitate the fast, reliable and efficient movement of goods worldwide, offering customers more flexibility with a fleet mix comprised of 777s, 777Fs, 747Fs, A350s, and A380s," the airline said.