Turkish Airlines’ new order for three Boeing 777 Freighters will give it more “flexibility” to serve even more global destinations, according to chairman of the board and executive committee, İlker Aycı.
The aircraft will be operated by cargo arm Turkish Cargo and comes amid record financial results. strong demand, and the carrier’s tonnage growing by 25 per cent and revenue by 29 per cent as it sets it sights on being one of the world’s largest cargo airlines in the world.
Aycı said: “We are excited to expand our efficient cargo fleet with the 777 Freighter. This aircraft has contributed greatly to Turkish Cargo, Turkish Airlines’ successful sub brand, becoming the fastest-growing air cargo carrier in the world.
“The additional aircraft will provide us more flexibility to serve even more destinations as we continue to grow our global freight network.”
Based on the 777-200LR (Longer Range), the 777F can fly 4,900 nautical miles (9,070 kilometres) with a full payload of 112 tonnes (102 metric tonnes or 102,000 kg). The long range means fewer stops and associated landing fees, less congestion at transfer hubs, lower cargo handling costs and shorter delivery times.
Turkish Airlines has steadily expanded its current and future freighter and belly fleet.
Last January, the carrier announced the order of three 777Fs. Two months later, Turkish finalised an order for 25 787-9 Dreamliners and five options to prepare for growing demand at Istanbul’s new megahub Istanbul Airport.
Over the past few months, Turkish has begun taking delivery of new 737 MAX aircraft. In all, the airline’s fleet of Boeing aircraft has grown to more than 160, with nearly 100 more on order.
With more than 30 777s in its fleet, Turkish Airlines is among the top 10 operators of the widebody aircraft in Europe and the Middle East.
