The carrier becomes the 20th operator of the world’s largest and longest range dedicated twin aisle freighter amid higher demand. The new freighter will increase China Airlines’ freight capacity, allowing the entry into new markets.
On Tuesday (December 15, 2020), Boeing announced the delivery of China Airlines first Boeing 777 Freighter. The carrier becomes the 20th operator of the aircraft amid increasing demand, allowing them to increase freight capacity and enter new markets. The Boeing 777 Freighter is the world’s largest and longest range twin aisle freighter. China Airlines plans to increase their cargo capacity by 15% in 2021 and will launch the 777F on routes connecting Taipei with North America. The airline operates an all-Boeing freighter fleet and debuted their new 777 Freighter at a ceremony in Taipei marking their 61st anniversary. China Airlines will take delivery of an additional five 777Fs as part of an order placed at the 2019 Paris Air Show.
In Tuesday’s announcement, China Airlines Chairman, Hsieh Su-Chien, said,
“Air cargo demand has risen in light of the global pandemic and has played a critical role in maintaining profitability for our airline despite the downturn in passenger traffic. The efficiency and capability of the 777 Freighter enables us to modernize our freighter fleet, while also allowing us to increase capacity and open into new markets. We look forward to delivering world-class service to our customers.”
Boeing’s 777 Freighter has a range of 9,200 km (4,970 nm) and can carry a maximum payload of 102,110 kg (224,900 lbs). The aircraft’s capability will allow China Airlines to operate long-haul routes with fewer stops and additional landing fees, resulting in the lowest average trip cost of any large freighter. China Airlines’ world-class freighter fleet includes Boeing 747 and now 777 Freighters, which can carry tall and outsized cargo loads on three meter (10 ft.) pallets. The common main deck pallet height capability enables interchangeable pallets and increased versatility.
Also commenting on Tuesday’s delivery announcement, Boeing’s Senior Vice President – Commercial Sales and Marketing, Ihssane Mounir, added,
“With the global air cargo fleet expected to grow by more than 60% over the next 20 years, the unmatched efficiency of the 777 Freighter will significantly boost China Airlines’ air cargo capabilities and enable them to scale their world-class cargo operations. We are honored to strengthen our partnership with China Airlines as they continue to build one of the world’s most dynamic freighter fleets.”
Boeing’s relationship with China Airlines goes beyond commercial airplanes and includes total lifecycle support services to streamline parts provisioning and maintenance operations. The carrier’s entire fleet also utilizes Jeppesen FliteDeck Pro, providing pilots with access to digital navigation charts and interactive maps, enhancing situational awareness and optimizing performance.
China Airlines also recently signed an Airplane Health Management (AHM) agreement which tracks real-time airplane information, providing decision performance tools that allow technicians to quickly diagnose and resolve maintenance issues. AHM-generated alerts allow the airline to take proactive actions, thereby reducing disruptions to operations and reducing unscheduled maintenance costs. China Airlines joins over 100 global carriers who use Boeing’s AHM solution.
Source: Boeing