Lufthansa Cargo Reveals Upcoming Strategy for Cargo Aircraft Purchases

Lufthansa Cargo A321F. Source: Lufthansa Cargo

No Further Widebody Freighter Orders

Lufthansa Cargo is considering placing additional orders for short- and medium-haul freighters, but there are no plans to place additional orders for widebody freighters.

Fleet Modernization and Expansion

In order to modernize its freighter fleet, increase its capacity, replace its retired MD-11F aircraft, and enter the intra-European e-commerce market, the Frankfurt-based airline has placed a number of freighter orders in recent years. AeroLogic, a 50/50 joint venture between Lufthansa Cargo and DHL, operates five additional aircraft for the airline.

Focus on E-commerce with A321Fs

The carrier also has two A321Fs, operated by sister airline CityLine and used on European services for e-commerce customers. The airline plans to receive two more B777Fs this year, with the first to be operated by AeroLogic and the second yet to be assigned. Additionally, two more A321Fs are expected for delivery this year, and the carrier has ordered seven new-generation B777-8F freighters.

Delivery Timeline for B777-8Fs

Between 2027 and 2030, Lufthansa Cargo anticipates receiving seven new B777-8Fs.

Considering More Freighters for European E-commerce

Although there are no plans for widebody freighters, Lufthansa Cargo CEO Dorothea von Boxberg stated that the airline is in talks to acquire more freighters to meet European e-commerce demand. This year, decisions regarding the expansion of the short- and medium-haul fleet will be discussed and may be made the following year.

Success and Challenges with Intra-European Freighter Flights

With only two freighters, intra-European freighter flights have been successful but challenging, according to Boxberg. To meet the demand for e-commerce, the airline intends to increase capacity and engage in additional dialogue with customers. The initial year has already produced favorable outcomes.

Record Revenues and Stable Volumes

This year, Lufthansa Cargo reported record revenues and operating profits despite flat cargo volumes compared to 2021 levels. Despite a challenging market outlook, Boxberg stated that she does not anticipate the Asia-Europe market to experience overcapacity this year.

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