China Airlines, the Taiwan flag carrier, has ordered four 777 freighters, adding to its extensive fleet of Boeing airplanes. Valued at US$1.4 billion at list prices, the order will enable the airline to capture new market opportunities as global air cargo demand continues to grow.
In 2021, China Airlines’ air cargo revenue was up 186% above the pre-pandemic year of 2019, which nearly balanced out a 96% drop in passenger revenue. Last year China Airlines Cargo recorded the best year in its history – over TWD 100 billion (US$3.6 billion) in revenue – by leveraging its existing all-Boeing fleet of (18) 747-400 freighters and (three) 777 freighters. With three 777 freighters already on order, China Airlines’ 777 Freighter is the perfect complement to the airline’s existing 747-400 freighter fleet, seamlessly accommodating the three-metre (10-foot) tall pallets and maximizing flexibility for its air cargo operations. (£1.00 = US$1.35 at time of publication)