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China Southern Orders Seven Boeing 777 Freighters in Landmark Deal

China Southern Airlines has committed to purchasing seven Boeing cargo aircraft, marking the mainland Chinese carrier's first order of the new 777-8 freighter variant. The order comprises five 777-8 units and two conventional 777 freighters, with options to acquire three additional 777-8s. Deliveries of the 777-8 are slated to begin in 2028. The transaction carries a list price of $3.6 billion, though the carrier expects negotiated discounts. This represents Boeing's first 777-8 order since August and signals renewed Chinese demand for U.S. aircraft following trade normalization efforts. China Southern Cargo currently operates 19 Boeing 777 freighters. The 777-8 delivers 30 percent improved fuel efficiency and 25 percent better operating costs per ton compared to the 747-400. Boeing faces intensifying competition from Airbus, which has secured 103 A350F orders.