FedEx accelerates 757 shift
07 / 03 / 2011
RECYCLING has its benefits. The world’s largest cargo airline FedEx will buy 18 used 757s and convert them into freighters by May 2012.
The 757s can carry 20 per cent more freight while burning a third less fuel than the three-engine 727s (right) they replace.
Purchase prices are estimated at around US$10 million each, with a $5 million conversion cost. Sellers include International Consolidated Airlines Group, British Airways, Saudi Arabian Airlines and UK charter carrier Thomson Airways.
The 757s, which add to the 48 FedEx has now, are about 20 years old on average. They have a maximum operational revenue payload of 45,800 pounds, compared with 38,200 pounds for a 727.
