Chinese MRO provider GAMECO held the cutting-door ceremony on Tuesday to celebrate the official commencement of modification project on the first Boeing converted freighter 737-800BCF in its Guangzhou base.
GAMECO and Boeing jointly launched a 737-800BCF production line in Guangzhou in 2019 to meet the growing demand of the air cargo market. Under the influence of the COVID-19, the air passenger transport market has been greatly impacted, while the need for the freight market has increased tremendously. Many airlines have gradually transformed part of their business to cargo section. Under such an environment, the air cargo market is facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities. Both the battle against the virus and the reconstruction of the supply chain play an important role.
“The kick-off activity today is an important milestone in this project, and also a symbol of the new chapter of our partnership with GAMECO. This project combines the technical expertise of Boeing and GAMECO, and conforms to the development trend and market demand of the industry, which can bring excellent value to customers, ” said Gao Sixiang, vice president of commercial and marketing of Boeing China.
The 737-800BCF is developed based on 737NG, which is known for reliability and efficiency. GAMECO’s airliner refitting project will extend the service life of the aircraft. The aircraft can carry 52800 pounds (23.9 tons) of industrial load, and it has received 130 orders and committed orders since the production.
According to Boeing’s recent market outlook, the world will require 2820 cargo aircraft in the next 20 years, including 1220 737-800BCF class modified cargo aircraft. China will need 230 new freighters and 500 modified freighters, standing as the largest market in this section.