National Orders Boeing 777 Freighters

On Day 1 of the 2024 Farnborough Airshow, National Airlines announced plans to boost its freighter fleet thanks to a new order for the 777 Freighter.

National will purchase 4 Boeing 777Fs to complement its fleet and meet future e-commerce growth. This order was not previously listed and has been identified as a firm deal.

The delivery of these four units is expected to commence towards the end of 2025, with the final units expected in 2026.

Boeing expects the 777Fs, once delivered, to complement the existing fleet of Boeing 747 Freighters. Ultimately, this should allow for easier cargo transfers, the streamlining of ground logistics, and cost-saving measures.

We are elated by this remarkable order of four Boeing 777 Freighters. This demonstrates our commitment to offering efficient, resourceful, and modern air freight services to support our global customers’ increasing transportation demands. The order affirms our fleet growth plan as we enter into the next chapter of National. We sincerely appreciate the support by Boeing and all its associated teams in this journey ahead.

Christopher Alf, chairman of National Airlines.

The national fleet averages some 25.4 years, with its oldest fleet types being the Boeing 747F and lone Boeing 757F. The cargo operator also has some A330Fs to its name, with these being the youngest at 13.6 years.

Boeing’s 777 Freighter is a reliable long-haul aircraft and allows freight operators such as National to solve short—to medium-term capacity requirements.

What About The 777-8F?

While Boeing has launched the 777F replacement in the form of the 777-8F, this aircraft will not enter service until the end of the decade. Therefore, while it offers truckloads of efficiency, it cannot be relied upon as a short-term solution.

National is, however, considering the 777-8F as a long-term addition to the fleet as it eventually looks to replace its Boeing 747 Freighters, which will only age further.

The 777-8F will compete against the upcoming A350F from Airbus as the two next-generation options for freighter companies in future decades.

For Airbus, it’s their first genuine attempt to take market share away from Boeing in a space that the American company has traditionally dominated.