Boeing 757F vs. Boeing 777F

The Boeing 757-200 Package Freighter (PF) is a cargo variant of the Boeing 757-200 passenger aircraft, designed for transporting cargo over medium and long distances. With its long narrow-body design, it serves as a versatile option in the air cargo sector.

Production History: The Boeing 757PF, introduced in 1987 and produced until 2004, is a direct adaptation of the passenger version of the 757-200. A total of 80 cargo versions of this model were built, reflecting its popularity and utility in the freight transportation industry. The aircraft has seen various modifications and variants over the years. Many passenger models have also been converted into freighters​​​​ once they exceed their passenger lifespan.

Design Features: The 757 freighter features a large main deck cargo door on the forward port-side fuselage. Next to this is an normal exit door used by the pilots, with all other emergency exits omitted. Similarly, all cabin windows and passenger amenities were left uninstalled. The Boeing 757-200PF has a length of 47.3 meters, a wingspan of 38 meters, and a height of 13.6 meters. It is equipped with either Rolls-Royce RB211-535E4 or Pratt & Whitney PW2000 engines. The aircraft's maximum takeoff weight is 127 tons, and it can carry up to 43 tons of cargo. The cargo hold dimensions are 33.2 m x 3.5 m x 2.4 m, accommodating 15 pallets or 39,100 kg of cargo​​.

Operational History: The Boeing 757-200 Freighter has been a mainstay in the fleets of various cargo operators. Its ability to handle diverse cargo types, from mail and goods to airline supplies, has made it a reliable choice for different logistical needs. Its performance and capacity have been especially beneficial for medium-range cargo routes​​​​. Freight operators of the 757 include UPS, FedEx, DHL, and Cargojet.

Similar Freighter Models: Comparable aircraft to the Boeing 757-200PF include the Airbus A321F, Boeing 737 Freighter, and Tupolev Tu-204. However, the 757 plays a very unique role in the air transport industry due to its size and performance capabilities. With 757s aging and on their way out of service, they will most likely be replaced by more fuel efficient narrowbodies like the 737 and A320, or newer widebodies like the 767s and A330.

The Boeing 777 Freighter (777F) is a twin-engine, long-range heavy cargo aircraft. Launched in May 2005, it inherits the design and flight characteristics of the 777 passenger jet but is specifically modified for cargo transport.

Production History: The 777 program was initially launched in October 1990, with the first prototype rolled out in 1994 and entering service with United Airlines in 1995. The 777F, a dedicated freighter version, was introduced in the mid-2000s to meet the needs expressed by cargo operators worldwide. Boeing continues to produce 777Fs while testing and certifications for the 777X are underway. In 2022, Boeing increased 777F production by 50%, as demand for the model surged through the pandemic.

Design Features: The 777F is characterized by its large-diameter turbofan engines and giant wingspan. Powered by the General Electric GE90-110B1, the world's most powerful commercial jet engine, the 777F has a maximum takeoff weight of 766,000 pounds (347,450 kilograms) and a revenue payload capability of over 226,000 pounds (102.8 metric tons). It can accommodate 27 standard pallets on the main deck, with additional capacity in the lower cargo hold. The aircraft's design includes enhancements like strengthened fuselage, a new cargo-handling system, and an advanced maneuver load alleviation system. The 777F also has a unique supernumerary area, which includes business-class seats in front of the cargo barrier, full main deck access, bunk beds, and a galley.

Operational History:

The 777F is renowned for its exceptional payload capacity and range, making it a preferred choice for transcontinental and international cargo routes. Key operators of this aircraft include FedEx Express (the largest operator), UPS Airlines, Emirates SkyCargo, Air France Cargo, AeroLogic, All Nippon Airways Cargo, Lufthansa Cargo, and China Cargo Airlines. Its enhanced performance and efficiency have positioned the 777F as an ideal replacement for older freighters like the Boeing 747-200F, McDonnell Douglas DC-10, and MD-11F.

Similar Freighter Models:

The Boeing 777 Freighter competes with other large cargo aircraft like the Airbus A330-200F and the upcoming Airbus A350F. The 777F is substantially larger than the 767-300F at almost 20 meters longer and 46 cubic meters more of cargo volume.