Dubai: Emirates SkyCargo is set to enter 2025 with a significant 15% increase in cargo capacity, responding to the rapidly growing global demand for its services. Throughout 2024, the company saw substantial growth in demand for its specialized product portfolio and extensive global network, which comprises an all-widebody fleet.
According to Emirates News Agency, Emirates SkyCargo has wet-leased two additional Boeing 747 freighters to meet this burgeoning demand, thereby increasing its main deck cargo capacity. Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President of Emirates SkyCargo, highlighted the company’s investments in new and leased freighter aircraft throughout 2024. Abbas emphasized that these efforts are aimed at addressing evolving supply chain and air cargo demands and ensuring a stable supply of capacity to serve global customers effectively. He also noted that the expansion is aligned with supporting Dubai’s Economic Agenda and enhancing the airline’s specialist product offerings.
The multi-year lease for the new Boeing 747s was signed with Compass Group, a longstanding partner of Emirates SkyCargo. This strategic move not only provides immediate capacity to cater to customer demand but also lays the groundwork for future expansion of the partnership. Emirates SkyCargo’s leasing strategy complements its owned fleet, which saw the addition of two new Boeing 777Fs in 2024, focusing on the increasing demand for eCommerce shipments from Asian markets.
The airline’s current active operating fleet includes 10 Boeing 777Fs and six wet-leased Boeing 747s, totaling 16 aircraft. Moreover, Emirates SkyCargo has 13 Boeing 777Fs on order, with deliveries expected between 2025 and 2026, supporting the airline’s next phase of growth. The company is also exploring future fleet options, including the Boeing 777-8F and Airbus A350-1000F.
Emirates SkyCargo leverages the widebody fleet and multi-frequency schedules of Emirates’ passenger operations to facilitate the efficient movement of goods. The increase in passenger flights to key cities such as Madagascar, Uganda, Ethiopia, Johannesburg, and Melbourne is set to further enhance the freight division’s global transportation capabilities. Additionally, the introduction of the first Airbus A350, which recently entered service, will further boost bellyhold capacity, offering 12 tonnes on every flight.