Boeing is considering whether to convert used 777 passenger jets into freighters, seeking to capitalize as booming e-commerce sales spur new demand for air freight worldwide, according to Bloomberg.
While Boeing has studied retrofitting the used wide-bodies for more than a decade, the effort has taken on new life in recent months as air cargo finally emerged from its recession-era slump, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the matter is confidential.
Offering revamped versions of the 777-200ERs would expand Boeing’s catalog of freighters but risk cannibalizing sales of factory-fresh jets at more than double the price.
Demand for conversions is growing as online shopping surges and package couriers seek lower-cost alternatives to buying new planes.
