The 747-8F, named Empower, was handed over to Atlas Air Worldwide at the Boeing Everett Delivery Center in Seattle yesterday (Tuesday 31 January), ready to be put into service with Kuehne + Nagel’s company, Apex Logistics, supporting customers on volatile trade lanes with a reliable service, reduced transit times and increased efficiency.
It is the last of 4 new 747s Atlas Air ordered in January 2021 and the second one it is operating in partnership with Kuehne + Nagel.
Empower sports a custom livery with Atlas Air’s logo on the right side and tail of the aircraft and Apex Logistics’ logo on the left side.
To honour the legacy of the Queen of the Skies, a special decal to the right of the nose features Joe Sutter, considered by Boeing to be the Father of the 747.
John Dietrich, President and CEO of Atlas Air Worldwide, says, “As the world’s largest operator of 747 freighters, Atlas is especially proud to take the last 747 ever to be built. We are grateful to Boeing for their shared commitment to safety, quality, innovation and the environment, and for their partnership to ensure the continued success of the 747 program as we operate the aircraft for decades to come.”
Tony Song, Group CEO of Apex, says, “This aircraft will reinforce our ability to provide strategic solutions and unique alternatives with passion. Together with our Apex Logistics colleagues, we are delighted to celebrate this special occasion with Kuehne + Nagel, Atlas Air and Boeing.”
Stan Deal, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, adds, “This monumental day is a testament to the generations of Boeing employees who brought to life the airplane that 'shrank the world', and revolutionised travel and air cargo as the first widebody. It is fitting to deliver this final 747-8 Freighter to the largest operator of the 747, Atlas Air, where the 'Queen' will continue to inspire and empower innovation in air cargo.”