Etihad Crystal Cargo takes delivery of its first Boeing 777 Freighter

The freighter is Etihad’s first Boeing freighter and joins the airline’s existing Boeing 777 fleet, which includes seven 777-300ERs. The 777 Freighter is the world's longest-range, twin-engine freighter.

Above: Etihad Boeing 777 Freighter.

Kevin Knight, Etihad chief planning and strategy officer, who also leads the Crystal Cargo division, said: “We are excited about this latest addition to our dedicated Crystal Cargo freighter fleet and we expect the 777 Freighter to deliver exceptional value to us and to our customers.

“With its proven track record, long-range capabilities and excellent operating efficiencies, the 777 Freighter will allow us to economically deliver cargo further than ever before. Our decision to invest in the 777 Freighter helps ensure that we are well positioned to serve our customers’ long-term needs.”

The 777 Freighter is based on the technologically advanced 777-200LR (Longer Range) passenger airplane and can fly 4,900 nautical miles (9,070 kilometres) with a full payload of 225,200 pounds (102 metric tons). With high-cargo density and 10-foot (3.1-meter) interior height capability, the 777 Freighter provides a cargo capacity normally associated with larger airplanes.

Analyst Saj Ahmad said: “Having taken delivery of its first A330-200F just over a year ago, Etihad has expanded its freight capabilities with the world's most fuel and cost efficient long haul freighter in the 777F. The performance attribute that allow 100 tons or more freight to be flown non-stop to more destinations allows Etihad Crystal Cargo to open up new logistics and distribution channels and further enhance its freight business.
 
"The inherent commonality with existing 777-300ER's in the Etihad fleet, the economies of scale and ease of integration that the carrier will reap will be augmented by the 777F's ability to perform a variety of cargo missions - whether that be heavy weight cargo shipments or outsized freight movements, the airline has at its disposal one of the most sought-after airplanes available today. A quick comparative glance between the 777F and the A330-200F shows that the former can carry more and fly further and with much lower costs. The size of the Boeing 777F order book too shows a much more diversified portfolio whereas over two-thirds of the A330-200F is saddled with lessors - and few, if any of these have found homes.
 
"The long term benefits for Etihad to build its cargo operation around its long haul 777-300ER fleet will derive them millions of dollars of savings each and every year. As Etihad expands its cargo business, expect further 777F's to be purchased.”

Marty Bentrott, senior vice president for sales, Middle East, Russia and Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said: “The 777 Freighter has consistently delivered the highest levels of reliability and efficiency since it entered service in 2009. 

“We are confident that the 777 Freighter’s high capacity and range, combined with the lowest trip cost of any large freighter, will add a tremendous amount of value to Etihad’s air cargo operations.”

With its updated fleet of one Boeing 777 Freighter, two Airbus A330-200F, two Airbus A300-600F aircraft and two McDonnell Douglas MD11s, Etihad Crystal Cargo operates to 27 cargo freighter destinations in the Middle East and Africa and 76 destinations across the globe.