Etihad Airways Exercises Options for Two Boeing 777 Freighters

Etihad Airways has confirmed that it will add two Boeing 777 freighter aircraft to its fleet.

The options are part of Etihad Airways’ US$67 billion mixed fleet order for 199 aircraft in 2013.

The additional aircraft, valued at US$637 million at list prices, are due for delivery next year. They will be part of Etihad Cargo, the airline’s freighter arm, which currently operates three Boeing 777Fs, three Boeing 747s and four Airbus A330s.

Etihad Cargo serves 11 freighter-only destinations worldwide from its Abu Dhabi hub and has freighter capacity on Etihad Airways’ fleet of 109 passenger aircraft.

James Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said, “Etihad Airways is delighted to exercise options for two freighters that will join our fleet next year, demonstrating our confidence and commitment to our partners at Boeing and to the global freight market. As we continue growing our freighter fleet and network, together with our partners we are able to provide a comprehensive, extensive and compelling global offering for the benefit of our customers.”

Etihad Cargo is an integral part of Etihad Airways’ business worth more than US$1 billion last year with 568,000 tonnes of freight carried, up 17% on 2013.

Etihad Airways’ wide network of cargo-only destinations includes include Houston, Guangzhou, Bogota, Chittagong and Brazzaville in the Republic of the Congo, with more routes planned next year.