Cargolux said that this aircraft type was instrumental in the growth and profitability of the company over the last fifteen years.
In 1993, Cargolux pioneered the introduction of the B747-400F when it became the first operator of the type worldwide. At that time, the industry questioned the carrier's decision to acquire this new purpose-built freighter, but many of those who voiced their concern soon began to acquire their own fleets of 400 freighters.
"Up until Boeing developed the B747-8F, the B747-400F was the most economical freighter for long range markets," said Ulrich Ogiermann, Cargolux's president & CEO. "It allowed us to eliminate technical stops on many routes."
He added that the B747-400F is also the most fuel-efficient long-range freighter aircraft, which has always been a key asset for Cargolux, allowing strong increases in the productivity and cost-effectiveness of its operation whilst providing the most environment-friendly transport of goods.
The freight-specific design of the B747-400F offered great flexibility to adapt to shippers' requirements: its capacity to sub-divide into four independent temperature zones makes it a particularly efficient transporter for live animals as well as perishable goods; and its nose cargo door makes it equally well suited for transporting large, bulky or heavy equipment.
From 2009, Cargolux will receive thirteen new B747-8 freighters that will gradually replace the 400F fleet.
