Saudia Cargo adds two 747-8F to grow fleet to 15

Saudi Airlines Cargo has acquired two Boeing 747-8F Freighters. This brings the total number of planes operated by the carrier to 15.
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“We are extremely excited to be taking delivery of our first two Boeing 747-8F aircraft,” said Mohammed Linjawi, operations vice president of Saudia Cargo.

“Not only is this one of the best aircraft in the world in terms of air freight performance, it can also accommodate 15 tonnes more than the Boeing 747-400 currently in use,” he added.
Longer than the 747-400F by 5.6 metres, with a maximum structural payload capability of 140 metric tonnes, the 747-8F will be able to accommodate four additional main-deck pallets and three additional lower-hold pallets. In addition to its increased capabilities, the aircraft also benefits from low fuel consumption, rendering it more cost effective than its predecessor.
The first 747-8F was delivered earlier this month and is expected to be operational by May. The second aircraft is scheduled to be delivered in mid-June 2013.
Both aircraft will serve the Asia to Europe market, with an aim at fulfilling customer demand for greater capacity on these routes.

 

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