Etihad orders two freighters
11 / 12 / 2011
MIDDLE Eastern major Etihad Airways has ordered two 777 freighters as part of a 12-aircraft deal with manufacturer Boeing.
The 777s take up the minority of the US$2.8 billion order, which includes 10 787-9 Dreamliners, making Etihad the largest operator of the aircraft type in the world.
“Both the 787 Dreamliner and the 777 freighter offer highly attractive operating economics and will facilitate our global expansion plans by allowing us to transport passengers and cargo into new markets from our hub in Abu Dhabi [UAE],” Etihad Airways chief executive officer (CEO), James Hogan, commented.
The two extra 777Fs mean Etihad will have a fleet of 21 777s (18 passenger aircraft and three freighters).
The cargo fleet also includes two A300-600Fs, two A330-200Fs and two MD-11Fs.
“In less than 10 years Etihad Airways has established an enviable track record and has earned global recognition for its focus on providing its customers with a quality product,” Jim Albaugh, CEO, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, remarked.