Widebody freighters to support long-haul cargo expansion and growing global e-commerce demand
AerCap has signed lease agreements with China Southern Air Logistics for three Boeing 777-300ERSF converted freighters, marking another milestone in the commercial rollout of the passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion programme for the Boeing 777-300ER.
The three aircraft are scheduled for delivery between late 2027 and the first half of 2028. The first freighter will be delivered in October 2027, with the remaining two aircraft expected to enter service during the first and second quarters of 2028.
The Boeing 777-300ERSF, commonly known as “The Big Twin,” combines the long-range performance of the Boeing 777-300ER with dedicated cargo capabilities, offering operators a high-capacity widebody freighter suited to long-haul routes. Powered by GE90 engines, the converted aircraft will integrate seamlessly into China Southern Air Logistics’ existing Boeing 777 fleet.
Aengus Kelly, CEO of AerCap, said the agreement reinforces the long-standing partnership between the two companies while supporting China Southern’s fleet expansion strategy.
“We are delighted to support once again the China Southern Group, a long-standing AerCap customer and a key participant in the global air transportation market,” Kelly said. “Through this important transaction, China Southern Airlines Cargo will add three B777-300ERSF aircraft to its fleet, offering an exceptional combination of range, payload capability and efficiency, powered by the proven GE90 platform. The aircraft will integrate seamlessly into China Southern Air Logistics’ existing B777 fleet.”
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He also thanked the teams at China Southern Airlines, China Southern Air Logistics and China Southern Airlines Cargo for their continued trust and partnership.
Li Xiao, Chairman of CSA Logistics, said the introduction of the converted freighters represents a significant step in the company’s long-term fleet development.
“We are delighted to sign this significant agreement, extending our long-standing partnership with AerCap. The introduction of the Boeing 777-300ERSF converted freighters marks a major milestone in the continued evolution of our fleet. These aircraft will provide strong support for our strategy to expand intercontinental routes, enabling us to deliver superior service to customers worldwide,” Li said.
The agreement comes as air cargo operators continue to invest in modern, fuel-efficient widebody freighters to meet rising cross-border trade and e-commerce demand. For AerCap, the transaction further strengthens its cargo leasing portfolio while supporting the wider adoption of the Boeing 777-300ER passenger-to-freighter conversion programme in the global air freight market.
