air-cargo

China Southern Orders Five Boeing 777-8F Freighters in $3.6B Deal

China Southern Air Cargo has become the first Chinese carrier to order the Boeing 777-8F freighter, placing an order for five of the wide-body aircraft plus two additional 777 freighters. The carrier secured options for three more 777-8F jets. The deal carries a $3.6 billion list price valuation, though the airline negotiated a substantial discount from Boeing. Deliveries are scheduled between 2027 and 2034. If China Southern exercises all optional aircraft, the total contract value could reach $5 billion at list prices. The carrier aims to expand cargo capacity amid growing cross-border e-commerce demand. China Southern also seeks to capitalize on strategic regional initiatives including the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area development and Belt and Road expansion opportunities. China Southern currently operates 19 Boeing 777Fs.