Aviation News

July 31, 2012

Nippon Cargo Airlines Receives First Boeing 747-8 Freighter

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By: Matt Molnar
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A Nippon Cargo Airlines Boeing 747-8 Freighter takes off from Paine Field in Everett, Wash. (Photo by Boeing/Tim Stake)
A Nippon Cargo Airlines Boeing 747-8 Freighter takes off from Paine Field in Everett, Wash. (Photo by Boeing/Tim Stake)
Nippon Cargo Airlines last week received its first Boeing 747-8 Freighter, becoming the Japanese launch customer for the new aircraft.

“We are excited to take delivery of this new fuel-efficient freighter, which will be a perfect addition to NCA’s cargo fleet,” said Takuzo Nomura, Senior Executive Managing Director of Tokyo-based NCA, in a statement. “The 747-8 Freighter will provide improved economics and efficiency as well as environmental benefits that are all essential in today’s market.”

NCA currently flies eight 747-400 Freighters. Two others owned by the carrier are now leased out to other operators.

Nippon, which has in the past promoted environmental responsibility by painting one of its planes green, plans operate the first ever transpacific 747-8 flight using a biofuel mixture of regular jet kerosene and used cooking oil.