Will Aid In Modernization Of Cargo Operation
Boeing is helping Aeroflot Cargo improve its operational
efficiency and adapt to growing market demands by providing three
leased MD-11 Boeing Converted Freighters (BCFs). The companies
joined in celebrating the freighters' recent entry into service at
a ceremony marking Aeroflot Cargo's new fleet and the resulting
operational improvements at the carrier's facility at
Frankfurt-Hahn airport.
Boeing Capital Corporation, the company's aircraft financing
arm, structured the deal and Boeing conducted the modification work
at subcontractor facilities in Europe. Aeroflot Cargo, which
operates four DC-10 freighters, is leasing the three MD-11BCFs on a
multi-year basis.
"We are confident that the MD-11F, as a proven, reliable and
highly demanded freighter, will deliver long-term efficiency for
our network," said Aeroflot Cargo General Director and CEO Oleg
Korolev. "Boeing's world-class customer service offers support from
the first contact and delivery through the refresh of airplanes to
keep our planes earning revenue."
A converted MD-11 carries 205,400-pound structural payload at a
range of 3,486 nautical miles at 630,500 pounds maximum takeoff
weight. The main and lower deck cargo compartments hold a total of
36 96- by 125-in. pallets or containers.
"This solution allows us to optimize our choices for airplanes
that we needed to redeploy, maximizing the airplane's value since
freighter conversion is a great residual play for the MD-11s," said
Tony Simpson, Boeing Capital managing director for Europe, Russia
and Central Asia. "Putting valuable BCF assets into the hands of an
experienced and reputable operator represents a good outcome for
our portfolio."
The MD-11 freighter conversion features an updated flight deck
and cargo-handling system, better fuel efficiency and increased
payload and range capabilities.
"This is a great example of Boeing's integrated Lifecycle
Solutions, putting forth a seamless process for Aeroflot Cargo,
where Boeing handled aircraft acquisition, passenger-to-freighter
modification and leasing of the final product," said Dan Da Silva,
vice president for Sales and Marketing, Boeing Commercial Aviation
Services.
Aeroflot Cargo also has committed to acquire three additional
MD-11 airplanes to undergo freighter conversion with Boeing's help.
The first aircraft will begin modification later this year with
redeliveries in 2009.
Boeing Commercial Aviation Services will provide detailed
engineering design work and oversight of the Aeroflot Cargo
conversions, with SASCO, a subsidiary of ST Aerospace, providing
touch labor on the airplanes.
Overall, Boeing has converted more than 100 MD-11 passenger
airplanes to freighters.