On Monday, January 31st, Boeing unveiled the new 777-8 Freighter, with Qatar Airways, one of the world’s major cargo carriers, placing an order for up to 50 aircraft.
The first delivery is expected in 2027.
With a firm order for 34 jets and options for 16 more, Qatar Airways will be the 777-8 Freighter launch client, with a total purchase worth more than $20 billion at current list prices and the largest freighter commitment in Boeing history by value.
Hundreds of American suppliers from 38 states will benefit from the contract, which will support more than 35,000 employment and have an annual economic impact of $2.6 billion on the American economy during the contract’s delivery duration.
The 777-8 Freighter will be the industry’s largest, longest-range, and most capable twin-engine freighter, combining advanced technology from the forthcoming 777X family with the proven performance of the market-leading 777 Freighter.
The 777-8 Freighter will enable operators to run a more sustainable and successful business with payload capacity approximately identical to the 747-400 Freighter and a 25% improvement in fuel efficiency, emissions, and operating expenses.
“Boeing has a long history of building market-leading freighter aircraft and Qatar Airways is honored to have the opportunity to be the launch customer for the 777-8 Freighter, an aircraft which will not only allow us to further enhance our product offering for our customers, but also help us meet our objectives to deliver a sustainable future for our business,” said Mr. Akbar Al Baker.
“Today marks a great day in the ever-building and strong relationship between Qatar Airways and Boeing. We certainly push Boeing hard to deliver upon our expectations, and the team at Boeing consistently strives to meet and exceed our expectations, giving the opportunity for us to be here today to launch the most significant new freighter aircraft for a generation.”
“We are delighted to launch Boeing’s next great cargo airplane – the 777-8 Freighter – with Qatar Airways, one of the world’s largest cargo carriers and our partner since the airline began operations nearly 30 years ago,” said Deal. “Our team is ready to create an airplane that will serve them well for many decades. Qatar Airways’ selection of the efficient 777-8 Freighter is a testament to our commitment to provide freighters with market-leading capacity, reliability and efficiency.”
@Boeing 777-8 Freighter: payload capacity nearly identical to 747-400 Freighter & a 25% improvement in fuel efficiency, emissions, operating costs. Range: 4,410 nautical miles (8,167 km). Maximum structural payload: 118 tonnes. First delivery to QR: 2027. https://t.co/zfKLodAfUY pic.twitter.com/hRbWVKjo9V
— Aeronews (@AeronewsGlobal) January 31, 2022
The 777-8 Freighter, the newest member of the 777X family, is being designed by Boeing to maximize efficiency and environmental performance.
Engineering design advancements and innovative technology, such as a new carbon-fiber composite wing and new fuel-efficient engines, are included in the widebody series. The 777-8 Freighter has a maximum structural payload of 118 tonnes and a range of 4,410 nautical miles (8,167 km), allowing clients to make fewer stops and save money on long-haul flights.
