Flight International online news 08:30 GMT: Package carrier UPS’s new Boeing 747-400 freighter order will be used to supplement capacity on routes already earmarked for the operator’s 10 Airbus A380s, which are scheduled for delivery in 2009.
The US cargo operator yesterday placed firm orders on eight 747-400Fs. Three of the aircraft are scheduled for delivery in 2007, starting in June. The other five are scheduled for 2008.
The company says both aircraft types will replace some Boeing MD-11 freighter routes connecting Asia, Europe and North America, in some markets allowing UPS “to use one aircraft to do the job of two MD-11’s.”
UPS relies on the MD-11F as its primary long-haul cargo carrier, with 20 in its current fleet and eight more on order.
Last quarter, UPS’s export volume grew 18.2%, led by Asia export volume gains of 39.5%. China again drove Asia with export volume rising 99%.
DARREN MAAS / WASHINGTON DC
Source: Flight International
