Order Caps of 2021 As Greatest Sales Year Ever

Boeing experienced a "record-setting 2021" with the final last minute addition of Atlas Air Worldwide's order for 4 777 Freighters, capping off a strong and unforeseen year of new-production and conversion sales for their cargo aircraft portfolio.

The pandemic slump in aircraft purchasing quickly gave way to fleet expansion that is forecast to continue with the global freighter fleet slated to grow by 70% over the next 20 years. Boeing's sometimes underappreciated 777 is finding renewed vigor as a twin-engine widebody option in a world of increasing e-commerce and quickly morphing supply chains. The manufacturer surpassed all previous company records with 80 orders for new production aircraft, and 80 for conversions to bring existing aircraft up to freighter spec.

The nearly 5,000 nmi range and payload of 112 tons come with economical benefits from its twin engine layout, dropping CO2 emissions and lower fuel use against previous generation aircraft. Boeing markets their 777 Freighter as a money saver by its reduced landing needs along a route, saving on landing fees and fuel burn by staying in super economical, high-altitude cruise as long as possible. For users of older 747 aircraft, Boeing advertises the high level of integration between cargo loading and transfer, saying "these two models, in particular, are designed to partner seamlessly, enabling operators to transfer tall and outsized cargo loads easily between the two on 10-foot tall pallets."

"We are excited to expand our fleet and service offerings for our existing and prospective customers with these four new 777s. With the best team in the industry as well as our focus on innovation and prudent fleet management, Atlas is serving the evolving needs of the global supply chain and delivering value for our customers," said John W. Dietrich, Atlas Air CEO. The outfit is one of the largest operators of Boeing freighters in the world, operating 49 747s and 14 777s, with a similarly composed passenger fleet of 767 and 737s. 

FMI: www.boeing.com