MD-11 Boeing Converted Freighters to Support Aeroflot Cargo Growth Plan

(Frankfurt, Germany, July 24, 2008) -- The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] 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 (93.2 tonne) structural payload at a range of 3,486 nautical miles (6,456 kilometers) at 630,500 pounds (286,000 kg) 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.

Source : Boeing