Two Planes To Be Delivered In 2008-09

On Tuesday, Boeing and Nippon Cargo Airlines (NCA) confirmed they have finalized an agreement for the cargo carrier's purchase of two additional Boeing 747-400 Freighters.

The order, valued at approximately $460 million at list prices, was previously included on the Boeing Orders & Deliveries Web site attributed to an unidentified customer.

NCA will receive its new freighters beginning in 2008 and 2009 to replace older 747-200 Freighters. Previously, NCA ordered eight 747-400 Freighters, two of which have been delivered.

"These new 747-400Fs will significantly reduce our airplane maintenance costs," said Takuro Uchiyama, president and CEO - Nippon Cargo Airlines. "This order is a key element in our Phoenix Project in which we will completely transition to 747-400 and 747-8 Freighters. Our goal is to enhance the company's revenue and expenditure structure, increase our international flight arrivals and departures at Narita and Haneda airports and use these new aircraft to construct a global business infrastructure."

NCA's Phoenix Project is a multi-stage, 10-year strategic plan announced by Uchiyama earlier this month at the company's headquarters.

The 747-400F can carry up to 124 tons of cargo -- 25 tons more cargo than the 747-200 Freighters currently in NCA's fleet. In addition to the higher payload capability, the 747-400F consumes less fuel than its predecessor, allowing the airplane to fly farther and to more destinations.

Last year, the carrier was a launch customer for the Boeing 747-8 Freighter, with an order for eight airplanes.

"We are proud of our relationship with NCA and honored that they are planning their future on the 747-400 and 747-8 Freighters," said Larry Dickenson, vice president, Sales - Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 747-400 is the most efficient freighter in the world and will continue to hold that position until the 747-8 Freighter is introduced in 2009."

NCA anticipates that the 747-400Fs and 747-8Fs will increase fuel efficiency by 18 percent and 36 percent, respectively, over the 747-200Fs that the carrier currently operates.

Nippon Cargo Airlines has built a reputation for safe, fast and reliable performance since 1985. The airline currently serves 17 major cities through Asia, Europe, and North America.

FMI: www.boeing.com, www.nippon-cargo.com