Lufthansa Group has placed an order with Boeing for seven 777-8 Freighters, to be operated by Lufthansa Cargo.

The group has also placed a new order for two 777 Freighters to add to its cargo fleet, which it said would provide extra cargo capacity in the near-term until the delivery of its first 777-8 Freighter.

The Lufthansa Group has also purchased seven 787-9s for its passenger fleet.

“The continuous modernisation of Lufthansa Group’s long-haul fleet is one of our top priorities. Therefore, we are very pleased to further invest into the newest generation of Boeing aircraft,” said Dr. Detlef Kayser, member of the executive board of Deutsche Lufthansa.

“The purchase will complement our existing orders and further reduce our operating costs, enhance fuel efficiency and provide state-of-the-art customer experiences. Moreover, the purchase highlights our commitment towards enhancing sustainable aviation.”

Boeing launched the new 777-8 Freighter in January and has so far booked 34 firm orders for the model.

“With the selection of our newest freighter, Lufthansa continues its long history of firsts with Boeing airplane programmes, becoming the first European customer for the 777-8 Freighter,” said Ihssane Mounir, Boeing senior vice president of commercial sales and marketing.

“With the investment in the 777 and 787 fleet, the Lufthansa Group will operate the most advanced, fuel-efficient twin-engine airplanes in the industry. Each of these airplanes reduces emissions by 15 to 25 per cent compared to previous models with a noise footprint up to 50 per cent smaller than their predecessors, helping to advance the Lufthansa Group’s sustainability objectives.”