FedEx Express yesterday took delivery of its first B777 freighter under plans to build up a fleetof 30 long-range, larger capacity planes for intercontinental routes.
The first 777 freighter, which was unveiled at a high-level ceremony with The Boeing Companyin Everett, Washington state, will enable the express operator to fly longer intercontinentalroutes in less time, add more point-to-point routes, offer later cut-times and improve operationalefficiencies.
By April 2010, FedEx Express plans to have four 777Fs serving routes between Asia andthe US. A total of 15 777Fs will enter the company’s fleet by the end of fiscal 2014, and afurther 15 777Fs be delivered between fiscal 2014 and fiscal 2019. The company also holds optionson 15 more 777Fs.
“The Boeing 777 is an extraordinary testament to our dedication to fleet enhancement,allowing FedEx Express to provide unmatched services to our customers around the world,” said DavidJ. Bronczek, president and chief executive officer, FedEx Express. “Its payload capacity,range and environmental efficiencies create well-rounded, long-term strategic value for our companyin meeting the global shipping demands of customers.”
“The 777F is a game-changer,” added Michael L. Ducker, president, International, FedExExpress. “Its operational efficiencies and environmental benefits alone are impressive, butcombine those advantages with the service improvements it delivers and FedEx will be able to takeinternational shipping to another level. Our customers around the world will benefit frommore point-to-point routes and the shorter flight times, increasing their competitiveness in theglobal marketplace.”
The 777F can fly nonstop up to 10,740km, which is 3,890km further than the MD-11 freighter,which until now has been the primary long-haul aircraft in the FedEx fleet. The 777F can tranportup to 97 tonnes compared to about 81 tonnes on the MD-11s.
FedEx Express said it will thus be able to fly between major markets and hubs in Asia, Europeand the US with more freight and in less time than it takes today, allowing later cut-off times forcustomers in the markets to drop off their shipments. For example, 777F transit times frompoints in Asia to the US will be from one to three hours faster than those of the MD-11.
In addition, the 777F uses 18% less fuel than an MD-11, reduces emissions by 18%, makesquieter takeoffs and landings and has lower maintenance and operating costs than other aircraft inits class.
