Revealed at Paris Airshow this year, UPS have chosen Boeing to increase its freighter fleet by purchasing an order of 14 747-6 freighter aircraft. UPS and Boeing also agreed to the option of an additional purchase of 14 of the freighters.
The 747, which has been slowly phased out as a commercial aircraft, is one of the most efficient freighter aircraft according to Boeing.
In a released statement, Brendan Canavan, President of UPS Airlines said ““These aircraft are a strategic investment for increased capacity for UPS customers around the globe.”
“The 747-8 will allow UPS to upsize our network in both new and existing markets.”
“UPS could not have selected a better aircraft to meet its growing business needs,” said Brad McMullen, vice president, Sales, North America and Leasing, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We’ve continued to make the 747-8 Freighter even better, and we look forward to seeing UPS introduce it to its fleet.”
A statement by UPS further details the agreement. It reports “The 14 aircraft are to be delivered between 2017 and 2020. The value of the contract, which also contains options for 14 additional jets in the future, was not disclosed. The new jumbo freighters will be added to the company’s existing operating fleet of more than 500 aircraft.”
“In addition, the 747-8 offers training and operating efficiencies to UPS. Pilots of the company’s existing 747-400 fleet will enjoy a common equipment rating, allowing them to fly both aircraft types. Further, UPS will realize greater economies of scale in maintenance and ground handling by operating the -8 aircraft.
“The 747-8 freighters carry 34 shipping containers on its main deck and 14 in its lower compartments. The -8 has a cargo capacity of 307,600 pounds, or approximately 30,000 packages and a range of 4,340 nautical miles. The new -8 aircraft line has a strong industry safety and reliability record.”
