Deal Pushes Total 767 Orders Past 1000

Boeing confirmed Thursday an order by UPS for 27 Boeing 767-300 Freighters. When the planes are delivered, it will nearly double the size of the UPS 767 fleet.

Most significantly, Boeing notes, the UPS order also pushes the total number of 767s past the 1,000 mark, to 1,005 -- allowing the 767 to join an elite group of airplanes that includes Boeing's 707, 727, 737, 747, 757 and MD-80 models.

The 27 new airplanes are slated for delivery beginning in 2009, extending into 2012.

This is the third order by UPS for 767 Freighters, the first coming in 1993 with the model's launch order for 30 airplanes, and the second in late 2000 for two airplanes. UPS introduced the 767 Freighter into service in 1995. In 2005, UPS also ordered eight 747-400 Freighters, the first of which will be delivered about midyear 2007. In addition, UPS is a customer for the 747-400 BCF (Boeing Converted Freighter).

"The Boeing 767-300ER freighter already is part of our current air fleet and we know from experience what a great workhorse it is," said UPS Vice President for Airline and International Operations Bob Lekites." It's also a good answer to our fleet management needs because it provides great flexibility, fast time in transit and sound cost performance. In addition, we already have the pilot training, ground support and maintenance systems in place, making for a seamless integration."

The UPS 767 Freighter fleet is powered by General Electric CF6-80C2 turbofans.

FMI: www.ups.com, www.boeing.com