Mehdron
May 24, 05, 8:49 am
Seattle Times article (http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2002286070_boeing24.html)
Boeing today will formally launch the freighter version of its 777 wide-body jet, according to a company insider.
The jet maker has been offering the Everett-built airplane — the ultra-long-range 777-200LRF — to customers since November. The launch means interest is high enough to give the green light to build it.
Boeing already has announced two customers for the jet. Last month Air Canada ordered two, and last week Air France announced an order for five, with options for three more.
A person familiar with the details said other airlines have signed preliminary agreements that would bring the total number of commitments to about 50 airplanes.
Those who have signed, the person said, include Atlas Air, an air-freighter leasing company based in New York; Emirates, the massive carrier out of Dubai; and Eva Airways of Taiwan, a carrier owned by the Evergreen Group shipping company.
"It will be a successful program," predicted Robert Dahl, project director with Seattle-based consultancy Air Cargo Management Group. He forecasts a market for about 130 of these jets over the next 20 years.
Earlier this month, Dahl's company listed Cargolux, Etihad, Lufthansa and Singapore Airlines as other carriers interested in the new freighter.
The 777-200LRF is based on the long-range passenger version of the jet, with a 10-foot-high side cargo door added and the floor strengthened to support the cargo.
Boeing today will formally launch the freighter version of its 777 wide-body jet, according to a company insider.
The jet maker has been offering the Everett-built airplane — the ultra-long-range 777-200LRF — to customers since November. The launch means interest is high enough to give the green light to build it.
Boeing already has announced two customers for the jet. Last month Air Canada ordered two, and last week Air France announced an order for five, with options for three more.
A person familiar with the details said other airlines have signed preliminary agreements that would bring the total number of commitments to about 50 airplanes.
Those who have signed, the person said, include Atlas Air, an air-freighter leasing company based in New York; Emirates, the massive carrier out of Dubai; and Eva Airways of Taiwan, a carrier owned by the Evergreen Group shipping company.
"It will be a successful program," predicted Robert Dahl, project director with Seattle-based consultancy Air Cargo Management Group. He forecasts a market for about 130 of these jets over the next 20 years.
Earlier this month, Dahl's company listed Cargolux, Etihad, Lufthansa and Singapore Airlines as other carriers interested in the new freighter.
The 777-200LRF is based on the long-range passenger version of the jet, with a 10-foot-high side cargo door added and the floor strengthened to support the cargo.