AerCap Begins New Era with Delivery of Boeing 777-300ERSF Freighters

AerCap, the world’s largest aircraft lessor, has successfully delivered the first two converted Boeing 777-300ERSF aircraft to Kalitta Air, marking a significant milestone in the aircraft leasing industry. This event not only renews the Boeing 777 program but also positions Kalitta Air to enhance its cargo operations. The two aircraft, referred to as “Big Twin,” were transformed from passenger planes to freighters by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), a leader in aircraft conversions.

The deliveries follow the issuance of the industry’s first Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) from both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel (CAAI). Earlier this month, IAI completed the conversion of the Boeing 777-300, with both aircraft flown from Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Airport (TLV) to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) before being transferred to Oscoda-Wurtsmith Airport (KOSC). The first aircraft (N77BCK) arrived on September 12, 2023, and the second (N770CK) arrived the following day.

Kalitta Air plans to place both aircraft into revenue service in early October, with additional deliveries expected in the coming weeks. The introduction of the Boeing 777-300ERSF will replace Kalitta’s aging fleet of 747 freighters, offering enhanced versatility and a reduced carbon footprint.

Aengus Kelly, CEO of AerCap, expressed enthusiasm about the deliveries, stating, “We are delighted to deliver the very first 777-300ERSF to our unwavering partner Kalitta Air, who have been with us shoulder to shoulder throughout this journey.” He highlighted the significance of receiving certification from both the CAAI and FAA, marking a pivotal moment for the program.

AerCap was the launch customer for the Boeing 777-300ERSF program, with Kalitta Air designated as the launch operator. The program has undergone extensive certification and testing to ensure the aircraft can operate at a payload capacity of 100 tonnes. As one of the largest freighters in service, the 777-300ERSF is expected to enhance global shipping capacity, speed, and efficiency.

Kalitta Air’s CEO, Connie Kalitta, noted that the new aircraft will provide greater range and payload capabilities to meet the increasing demands of the global air cargo market. The 777 converted freighter is anticipated to deliver lower operating costs compared to older aircraft, positioning it as a pivotal player in the evolving freighter market.

IAI has promoted the “Big Twin” as offering several advantages over its counterparts, including:

– **Economics**: 22% lower operating costs per tonne compared to the 777-200LRF
– **Range**: 4,650 nautical miles (8,612 kilometers)
– **Capacity**: 25% more volume than the 777-200LRF
– **Efficiency**: 21% lower fuel burn per tonne than the Boeing 747-400F

The Boeing 777 family, which includes the 777-200, 777-300, and 777F variants, has established itself as the best-selling widebody aircraft of all time, with the 777-300ER recognized as the most successful widebody passenger variant, boasting over 800 deliveries. The family is set to expand with the next-generation 777X, including the 777-8 and 777-9 for passenger operations and the 777-8 Freighter for cargo services.

The two newly converted Boeing 777-300ERSFs will transition to their new roles as freighters after previously serving as passenger aircraft for Emirates. According to ch-aviation, N770CK made its first flight in May 2006, accumulating 73,397 flight hours by February 2023, while N778CK, built in March 2005, logged 66,957 flight hours by May 2020.

Kalitta Air is scheduled to take delivery of five more 777-300ERSFs, with some already converted and awaiting delivery in the upcoming months. IAI has received orders for approximately 60 converted freighters and is actively expanding its conversion facilities globally to accommodate the growing demand.

The successful deliveries of the Boeing 777-300ERSF mark the beginning of a new chapter for both AerCap and Kalitta Air, as they navigate the challenges and opportunities within the dynamic air cargo market.