TOKYO: March 23, 2018. ANA has ordered two B777 freighters with a list price of US$687 million for delivery next year.

The airline said it was responding to expanding market demand in Asia, China and North America.

"Air cargo is an essential part of global trade growth," said Hiroshi Sugiguchi, ANA Cargo vice president Corporate Planning & Administration. "We are committed to playing a critical role in further advancing Japan's economic growth through trade and these new freighter airplanes will help us accomplish our goal."

According to Boeing the global air cargo market grew 9.0 percent last year, more than double the long-term projected growth rate of about 4.2 percent. ANA currently operates 10 B767 freighters from its hub In Okinawa and will become the first airline in Japan to operate the B777F.

IATA reported air cargo demand rose 8.0 percent in January 2018 year-on-year, up from 5.8 percent in December, as freight capacity rose by 4.2 percent.

The association says continued global demand for manufacturing exports is leading to longer supply chain delivery times and air cargo demand “may strengthen as a result”.

With all regions reporting an increase, Asia-Pacific airlines saw demand grow 7.7 percent; North American airlines’ volumes expanded 7.5 percent; European airlines posted a 10.5 percent gain; Middle Eastern carriers’ freight volumes increased 4.4 percent; Latin American airlines saw demand rise 8.0 percent and African carriers’ increased traffic by 12.9 percent year-on-year.