Cargolux has chosen to replace its large fleet of 747-400 jumbo cargo jets with Boeing's next-generation 777-8 freighter.
The Luxembourg-based cargo airline made the announcement during the Farnborough International Airshow saying that the 777-8 freighter of Boeing is the "preferred solution" to replace its ageing cargo fleet.
"With the 777-8 Freighter being the preferred solution to replace our 747-400s, Cargolux is looking forward to continuing its ongoing relationship with Boeing," said Richard Forson, president, and CEO of Cargolux.
Europe's largest cargo airline noted that the 777-8 freighter is "ideally suited" for operators like Cargolux, creating a more sustainable and profitable future.
With nearly identical payload and range capabilities as the 747-400 Freighter, the cargo carrier noted that the 777-8 Freighter will provide 30% better fuel efficiency and emissions and 25% better operating costs per tonne as the airplane to replace ageing large freighters later this decade.
"With the selection of our newest freighter as their preferred solution, Cargolux continues its long and enduring history with Boeing, integrating the 777-8F seamlessly into the airline's all-747 cargo operations," said Stan Deal, president, and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.
"With its investment in the 777-8 Freighter, Cargolux will operate the most advanced, fuel-efficient, twin-engine freighter in the industry. The 777-8 Freighter significantly reduces CO2 emissions compared to previous models with a reduced noise footprint, helping to advance Cargolux's commitment to sustainable operations," Deal added.
Boeing launched the 777-8 Freighter in January and has booked more than 50 orders for the model. Cargolux said the 777-8 Freighter offers the highest payload and the lowest fuel use, emissions, and operating cost per tonne of any large freighter.
Cargolux is the largest operator of Boeing widebody freighters in Europe with a combined total fleet of 30 747-400 and 747-8 Freighters.
The Cargolux worldwide network covers over 75 destinations on scheduled all-cargo flights and offers full and part-charter services.
