Atlas Air orders 4 new Boeing 747-8F

Aviation Updates Philippines – Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc. announced on Tuesday an order for four brand-new Boeing 747-8 freighter aircraft in a bid to support the company's strategic growth plan.

These new Boeing freighters will enable Atlas Air to cope with the strong demand in airfreight, particularly the fast-growing e-commerce and express sectors. 

Since Atlas Air is not only an airline but also an aircraft lessor, these 747s would be made available for dry-lease to customers through its Titan Aviation Leasing subsidiary.

“The 747-8F is the best and most versatile widebody freighter in the market, and we are excited to bolster our fleet with the acquisition of these four aircraft,” said John W. Dietrich, Atlas Air Worldwide President and Chief Executive Officer.

He added: “This significant growth opportunity will enable us to capitalize on strong demand and deliver value for our existing and prospective customers. The efficiency and capability of the 747-8F further complements our longstanding focus on leading-edge technology."   

On the other hand, Stan Deal, president and chief executive officer of Boeing Commercial Airplanes said: "The 747 will forever hold a special place in aviation history and we are honored by Atlas Air’s longstanding commitment to the airplane. 

Atlas Air began operations 28 years ago with a single 747 and it is fitting that they should receive the last 747 production airplanes, ensuring that the ‘Queen of the Skies’ plays a significant role in the global air cargo market for decades to come."

The four new aircraft are expected to be delivered from May through October 2022. The company, interestingly, noted that Atlas Air's 747-8F orders are the last four Boeing plans to produce.

Atlas Air operates a fleet of 53 Boeing 747 aircraft, making it the largest 747 operator in the world. Aside from the Queen of the Skies, the company also operates a plethora of Boeing-made airplanes — 737s, 767s, and 777s.