Emirates SkyCargo on Monday unveiled its first converted Boeing 777-300ER Special Freighter (777-300ERSF), marking a new step in the cargo carrier's fleet expansion as it seeks to meet growing global demand for air freight driven by e-commerce and cross-border trade.

In a press release, the Dubai-based carrier said the aircraft, registered A6-EBK, has already entered commercial service, transporting cargo through Dubai to destinations across multiple regions. Unlike its factory-built freighters, the aircraft was converted from a passenger Boeing 777-300ER previously operated by Emirates.

The conversion—which took several months and required extensive structural and systems modifications—was to change the passenger aircraft into a dedicated freighter, while preserving the aircraft’s aerodynamic performance, structural integrity, and operational safety, the airline said.

Emirates SkyCargo said this involved removing the passenger cabin, fitting a large main-deck cargo door, reinforcing the fuselage and floor structure to accommodate heavy cargo pallets, and fitting a rigid safety barrier capable of withstanding forces of up to nine times gravity (9G).

It also featured a powered cargo loading system, smoke detection and fire suppression equipment, improved environmental controls for temperature-sensitive shipments such as pharmaceuticals and perishables, and more crew rest facilities for long-haul cargo operations.

Emirates said the flight deck was modified to incorporate additional environmental and safety controls tailored for cargo transport.

Before entering service, the converted aircraft underwent regulatory certification, including ground and flight tests to verify compliance with safety requirements covering structural strength, fire protection, systems reliability, and flight performance, the airline said.

The carrier added that the aircraft received the latest Emirates SkyCargo livery before commencing commercial operations.

The introduction of the converted freighter comes as Emirates SkyCargo continues expanding its cargo fleet. The airline said it has already taken delivery of six factory-built Boeing 777 Freighters since March this year, alongside the converted aircraft, and expects to receive four additional Boeing 777 Freighters and another converted freighter before the end of 2026.

Emirates SkyCargo currently serves more than 150 destinations across six continents and said the additional capacity is intended to strengthen global supply chains while providing customers with greater flexibility in cargo transportation.

Source: PR