Turkish Airlines receives its first Boeing 777 freighter

December 8, 2017: Turkish Airlines has received its first of the two 777 freighters from Boeing. 

The 777 Freighter, the world's longest-range twin-engine freighter, is based on the technologically advanced 777-200LR (Longer Range) passenger airplane and can fly 4,900 nautical miles (9,070 kilometers) with a full payload of 112 tonnes (102 metric tonnes or 102,000 kg).

"The delivery of our first 777 Freighter is a milestone event in our cargo business. We’re sure that this significant delivery which will bring great value to our rapidly growing cargo operations will also enable our leading sub-brand to compete further, expand and reach new short and long-range destinations from our hub in Istanbul," said M İlker Aycı, chairman of the board and the executive committee of Turkish Airlines.

 "We are honoured to deliver the 777 Freighter to Turkish Airlines. This aircraft's range capability, combined with its enhanced cargo capacity, makes it a perfect airplane for Turkish Airlines to continue to profitably grow its global cargo service," said Marty Bentrott, senior vice president of Sales, Middle East, Turkey, Russia, Central Asia and Africa, Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

Based in Istanbul, Turkish Airlines carries over 60 million passengers a year, with direct flights to 300 destinations in 120 countries. Turkish Airlines' subcarrier, Turkish Cargo has increased its freighter destinations from 55 to 73 this year.