Boeing’s freighter conversion programs received an elevation during the FIA Connect with Boeing announcing a contract calling for DHL Express to add four 767-300BCFs and another with Aircraft Finance Germany covering two 737-800BCFs. Boeing’s freighter conversion programshad reportedly witnessed a surge in business since the onset of the pandemic.

DHL Express and Boeing announced on July 22, 2020 that it will add four 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCF) as part of the logistics company’s efforts to continue modernising and growing its fleet with cost-efficient and reliable freighters. “This step is part of DHL’s effort to modernise its long-haul intercontinental fleet in order to fly more eco-friendly and cost-efficiently. The aircraft are converted from passenger to freighter configuration by Boeing to fit the needs of DHL Express and meet the rising global demand for express services,” the manufacturer stated.

This step is part of DHL’s effort to modernise its long-haul intercontinental fleet in order to fly eco-friendlier and more cost-efficiently. The aircraft are converted from passenger to freighter configuration by Boeing to fit the needs of DHL Express and meet the rising global demand for express services, the express service provider stated.

“Boeing’s 767 freighter, whether it is a production or converted option, offers an unmatched combination of capacity and capability as well as superior economics. We are delighted DHL has selected Boeing platforms to optimise their operations. We are committed to delivering the freighter capacity that DHL needs to succeed as one of the most trusted logistics and express cargo leaders in the world,” said Ihssane Mounir, Boeing’s senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.

This step is part of DHL’s effort to modernise its long-haul intercontinental fleet in order to fly eco-friendlier and more cost-efficiently. The aircraft are converted from passenger to freighter configuration by Boeing to fit the needs of DHL Express and meet the rising global demand for express services, the express service provider stated.

The Boeing 767 freighter family boasts the lowest direct operating costs, best payload-to-weight ratio and allows airlines to develop new opportunities in the long-haul, regional and feeder markets. The 767-300BCF has virtually the same cargo capability as the 767-300F production freighter with approximately 50 tonnes structural payload at a range of approximately 3,000 nautical miles (5,556 kilometers) and 412,000 pounds (186,880 kilograms) maximum takeoff weight.

“We are excited to introduce additional Boeing 767 freighters to the DHL Express air network. We have operated the 767-300F model across our global fleet for many years and look forward to continue investing in the platform by adding more 767-300BCFs. The freighter type offers a proven versatility and we appreciate the opportunity to further enhance efficiency while simultaneously improving our environmental footprint. This brings us closer to our Strategy 2025 goals and ensures we deliver the best quality service possible to our customers,” said Geoff Kehr, senior vice president, Global Air Fleet Management, DHL Express in a press release.

In its 2025 strategy, DHL Express expects further growth of cross-border e-commerce trade and, as a result, increased demand for intercontinental delivery expertise. Therefore, the goal is a well-connected global network whilst reducing carbon emissions and fuel consumption to benefit the environment, partners and customers alike. Since 2019, DHL Express has also added 14 top-of-the-line fuel-efficient Boeing 777F to replace older 747-400s.

“We are always looking for the best way to invest and deploy aircraft that support our customers. The 737-800BCF gives us the opportunity to serve a growing market with a workhorse that can reliably and efficiently fit into most operators’ fleets,” said Peter Koster, AFG’s Head of Freighter Trading.

Boeing also signed an agreement with Aircraft Finance Germany (AFG) on July 23, 2020 for two 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCF).

“Aircraft Finance Germany is known for creating bespoke solutions that allow their customers to win in a dynamic market. We are pleased that they are investing in the 737-800BCF which capitalises on the Next-Generation 737’s efficiency and unmatched reliability and the converted freighter program is a great way to extend the life of the platform,” said Mounir.

“We are always looking for the best way to invest and deploy aircraft that support our customers. The 737-800BCF gives us the opportunity to serve a growing market with a workhorse that can reliably and efficiently fit into most operators’ fleets,” said Peter Koster, AFG’s Head of Freighter Trading.

For the 767-300BCF, Boeing has seen orders and commitments rise to 51 with the DHL deal. First delivered in 2018, the 737-800BCF is now operated by 10 customers across four continents. Boeing has ramped up production in response to increased demand with 132 orders. To date, the company has delivered 34 737-800BCFs.