Boeing announced on Tuesday at the Farnborough Airshow that MSC Air Cargo has ordered five 777-8 Freighters. The aircraft will join the carrier’s fleet of seven 777F..
The order had appeared previously in Boeing’s backlog under an unidentified customer. It is the airline’s first commitment for the 777-8 Freighter.
“This order is an investment in the long-term future of MSC Air Cargo and in the customers we serve,” CEO Jannie Davel said.
Boeing launched the 777-8 Freighter in 2022 as the successor to the 777 Freighter, whose production will end after 2027 because new international aircraft emissions standards prevent the certification of additional examples of the current model. The aircraft also targets replacement demand for aging Boeing 747-400F and MD-11F fleets.
The 777-8 Freighter offers a maximum structural payload of 118 tonnes, according to Boeing, and competes with the Airbus A350F, which remains slightly ahead in the certification schedule.
Through June, Boeing had logged 81 firm orders for the 777-8 Freighter. Deliveries will begin after certification of the 777X family.
MSC Air Cargo began operations in 2022 and is part of the Switzerland-based MSC Group, one of the world’s largest container shipping companies. The group also owns MSC Cruises, a major cruise operator.
