LE BOURGET, Paris: June 19, 2019. Boeing has announced a contract for five more B777 freighters from Qatar Airways, a decision by China Airways to order up to six of the aircraft, and an MoU with ASL Aviation Holdings for 20 B737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters.

Valued at US$1.8 billion at list prices, the Qatar purchase will bring the airline’s B777 freighter fleet to 20 and enable it “to further develop our business and offer new customers the chance to experience a truly first-class logistics service,” according to Qatar Airways Group CEO Akbar Al Baker. “This is an order that will propel our growth and, I firmly believe, confirm us as the leading cargo operator in the world."

China Airways says the B777 freighter purchase is designed to replace older B747-400 equipment as it launches operations from Taipei to North America and Europe.

"Air cargo is an important part of our overall business and the introduction of these new Boeing 777 freighters will play an integral role in our long-term growth strategy," commented China Airlines chairman Hsieh Su-Chien. "As we transition our freighter fleet to the B777Fs from the older B747Fs, this will enable us to deliver world-class services to our customers more efficiently and reliably."

Airline passenger and freighter operator ASL carried more than 357,000 tonnes in 2018 on behalf of express operators and company CEO Hugh Flynn said “having operated two leased 737-800BCFs across our wide European network, we are very pleased with how the flexibility and reliability of these freighters fulfill our operational needs.

“The aircraft is highly efficient and right-sized for our developing operations on behalf of our express cargo customers who are experiencing growing demand. The B737-800BCF will also give us access to new markets,” he added.

According to Boeing the ASL MoU covers 10 orders and 10 purchase rights and brings the manufacturer’s Next-Gen conversion total to 120 orders and commitments from eight customers.