GECAS is forecasting that the Boeing 777-300ER freighter conversion programme launched with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) could secure more than 150 orders up to 2030, writes Air Cargo News sister title FlightGlobal.
The IAI conversion programme was unveiled today by leasing giant GECAS, which has placed a launch order for 15 firm conversions with 15 options and is co-investor in the programme. The conversion is designated 777-300ER Special Freighter (SF) and is the first after-market cargo modification launched for the 777 family.
Boeing produces the new-build all-cargo 777F, which is based on the shorter-fuselage -200LR platform and has a list price of $352m. Total orders stand at 230 aircraft.
âWeâre dubbing the -300ERSF the âBig Twinâ as itâs larger than the factory freighter,â says Richard Greener, senior vice-president and manager of GECASâs cargo aircraft group.
âThe -300ERSF has 47 standard 96 x 125in [2.4 x 3.2m] pallet positions in total. So, overall it has 10 more positions that a 777-200LRF factory freighter or 5,800cb ft [164cb m] more volume. It also has eight more positions than a factory 747-400F,â Greener tells FlightGlobal.
This is definitely a good alternative to the density restricted short hull of the 777F. An additional 20T is a whole lot of small type envelops and gadgets that are in high demand today.
Looks like this would be targeting the booming e-commerce & express shippers of the world. A lot of times the 777F can be volumed out without reaching MTOW, so this is a good step for the likes of Prime Air & possible UPS & FedEx.
I wouldnât say the 747F is dead at all. Front loading aircraft are still needed for larger than normal freight. High density & oversized tall cargo is where the 747F/ BCF shines. Theyâre also cheap used. As for the -8F, that is a different story.
But you are right, the market for second hand -300âs is low, particularly & specifically the passenger market.
I wonder how this affects the possible development of the 777XF?
