Cathays first 747-400ERF is ready for action

CATHAY Pacific Airways’ cargo business has entered a new era following the arrival of the airline’s first Boeing 747-400ERF ‘Extended Range Freighter’. The new delivery marks the beginning of a significant enhancement of the freighter fleet, with the addition of newer, more efficient aircraft coupled with the retirement of the airline’s older Boeing 747-200 classic freighters.

The new Boeing 747-400ERF – the first of six to be delivered by next year – was handed over to Cathay Pacific in Seattle. The aircraft, has a higher maximum takeoff weight than existing Boeing 747-400 freighters in the fleet, achieved by using lighter materials.

Director and general manager, cargo, Ron Mathison, said: “With fuel prices reaching historical highs, it is appropriate that we are equipping our fleet with new, far more efficient freighters that will have a much-reduced environmental impact. The introduction of the new ‘Extended Range Freighters’ will enable us to move greater amounts of freight in a more efficient way, adding a further boost to Hong Kong’s position as the world’s leading international airfreight hub.”