US-based aircraft lessor BBAM has come to an agreement with Boeing to purchase six new 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCFs), in a deal that includes options for six more aircraft.
The agreement brings BBAM’s 737-800BCF orders and commitments to 15, and is made in light of continued strength in the e-commerce and express cargo market, despite the ongoing COVID-19 crisis.
“As we look ahead to expanding our cargo fleet, the 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter provides the performance and efficiency our customers need,” said Steve Zissis, CEO of BBAM.
“Adding these highly capable freighters to 276 Boeing airplanes in our managed fleet helps to further strengthen our leadership position in the marketplace.”
Based on the popular Next-Generation 737, the 737-800BCF is a new-generation freighter that offers higher reliability with lower fuel consumption and operating costs per trip, compared with other standard body freighters.
Primarily used to carry express cargo on domestic or short-haul routes, the airplane is capable of carrying up to 23.9 tonnes and flying up to 2,025 nautical miles.
Since entering service in 2018, the 737-800BCF has won more than 150 orders and commitments.
“BBAM is one of the industry’s leading full-service leasing companies and has built their reputation on smart investments. We are honoured that BBAM has selected more 737-800BCFs, based on the success of our standard body freighters in their portfolio,” said Ihssane Mounir, Boeing’s senior vice president of commercial sales and marketing.
“The continued strong demand for the 737-800BCF demonstrates the critical role these converted freighters play in the growing express and e-commerce market.”
Additional reporting by Airlinerwatch.
