The Big Twin is the first conversion programme for the 777-300ER. It was launched by AerCap Cargo and Israel Aerospace Industries in 2019, with the first aircraft due to be delivered to Kalitta Air in the first half of this year. AerCap Cargo has taken 20 firm orders and has another 10 options.
Rich Greener, Head of AerCap Cargo, says, “With 25% more capacity than today's smaller twin-engine long-haul freighters, the Big Twin offers significant cost efficiencies, superior range, and outstanding operational commonality, and is therefore the ideal aircraft to support Fly Meta's growing widebody freighter fleet.”
Helen Chen, CEO of Fly Meta, adds, “We are thrilled to sign these lease agreements with AerCap for four Boeing 777-300ERSF freighter aircraft. We are confident that the situation will change for the better as China lifts its Covid restrictions, and that the cargo market will grow steadily over the coming years. We believe that the volume capabilities and greater cost efficiencies of the 777-300ERSF will give us a competitive advantage in the market.”
AerCap has also delivered its 50th Boeing 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) to GOL Linhas Aéreas, which will operate the aircraft on behalf of a Latin American e-commerce company.
The aircraft was converted by MRO provider COOPESA and its delivery to GOL is part of its growth strategy for GOLLOG, GOL’s logistics business unit.
Greener says, “Today, the 737-800BCF is one of the most in-demand narrowbody freighter aircraft in the industry, thanks to its versatility and reliability, making it the perfect choice for express air cargo and e-commerce networks.”
Kate Schaefer, Vice President of Boeing’s Commercial Modifications, Engineering and Speciality Products business, says, “The BCF team has navigated global challenges during the past few years and truly pulled together to deliver this 50th 737-800BCF for AerCap. It is a testament to the ongoing commitment to our customers' success.”