For the first time, a Boeing 747 freighter is flying the flag of Emirates SkyCargo across the world, highlighting not only the airline but Dubai’s position as the air cargo hub of the Middle East and West Asia region.

The aircraft, a 747-400F production freighter with a capacity of 120 tonnes, arrived at Dubai airport yesterday (Wednesday February 14). It is the first- ever freighter to operate with Emirates SkyCargo livery. In addition, by replacing the 747-200 200Fversion previously in operation, the new aircraft provides an increase in the airline’s cargo capacity.

On arrival, the freighter was inspected by HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Emirates; Maurice Flanagan, Group Managing Director; Tim Clark, Chief Director (Airline) and Ram Menen, Director Cargo andother members of senior management.

Sheikh Ahmed said: “The operation of a dedicated freighter on key routes and Emirates SkyCargo’s commitment to two Airbus A380 super jumbo freighters are in line with the objectives set by HH Gen Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Defence Minister.

Sheikh Ahmed continued: “Government initiatives such as the free zones at Jebel Ali and Dubai airport; the expansion plan for the Dubai Air Cargo Village and the Internet City depend on companies such as Emirates playing their part in establishing commercial links with key international markets to confirm Dubai’s position as a global player.

“With this new livery, a Boeing 747 freighter will proudly fly the Emirates SkyCargo flag across the world for the first time. I am delighted with this development. Emirates SkyCargo shares Dubai Government’s vision of constant growth and constantly improving efficiencies powered by information technology solutions.”
In addition to the extra capacity, the 747-400 400F version has a nose door capability which enables it to carry larger consignments. It is more fuel-efficient and will enable the airline to enhance its services to the customer.
The aircraft, leased from Atlas Air, was painted with the Emirates SkyCargo livery in Rome. It then flew to Amsterdam, Emirates’ cargo-only destination, and arrived at Dubai airport yesterday with a full cargo load. It is now in operation on the Dubai-Amsterdam and Dubai-Hong Kong routes.

Emirates SkyCargo, three times winner of the Cargo Airline of the Year title, next month (March) officially opens the new Emirates SkyCargo Centre, with an annual capacity of 400,000 tonnes and the first stage of the expansion of cargo facilities at Dubai airport.

In the last financial year, the division, which produces 17.1 per cent of total airline revenues, carried nearly 270,000 tonnes of cargo using the cargo holds of passenger aircraft plus the leased freighter, and expects tonnage carried this year show an increase of 25 per cent.

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