FedEx’s 30-freighter order
07 / 12 / 2011
FEDEX is planning to purchase 30 Boeing wide-body freighters to replace older, less fuel-efficient aircraft, sources have revealed.
The order, which would be valued at about US$5.26 billion at list prices, is expected to be confirmed next week.
The freighters in question seem to include the 767 and 737. Twin-engine jets such as the 767 (and 777 pictured) may help FedEx cut fuel costs, which rose 40 per cent in the three months ended 31 August.
The 767’s backlog was 46 aircraft – each listed at $175.4 million – at the end of October.
Boeing decided in July this year to upgrade the existing 737 with more fuel-efficient engines rather than build an all-new successor. Sources say that the aircraft manufacturer will need to complete planned adjustments, performance guarantees and pricing before finalising orders.
The integrator engaged in earlier talks with Boeing and Airbus concerning an order of around 50 freighters including the A330. The buy was subsequently pushed back.
