Volga-Dnepr Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to further the Group’s fleet expansion with 20 additional 747-8 Freighters, valued at $7.4 billion at list prices.
The agreement also adds the Antonov-124-100 aircraft to the long-term logistics support for Boeing and its partners.
Boeing and Volga Dnepr have a long history of successful partnership. The Group has already supported Boeing in a number of shipments. The unique technical abilities of the Antonov 124-100, along with Volga-Dnepr's 25 years of global operations and experience gained in transportation of aviation equipment, will further serve Boeing's logistics needs.
“Together with Boeing, we will keep the unique technology of air logistics offering both the Antonov-124-100 and our expanded Boeing 747 fleet for the benefits of global customers," said Alexey Isaikin, president, Volga-Dnepr Group.
“Our partnership with Volga-Dnepr Group is one of a kind,” said Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Ray Conner. “Volga-Dnepr Group is a world-class cargo carrier and an outstanding service provider. We appreciate their confidence in the 747-8 Freighter.”
For Volga Dnepr Group, adding more 747-8 Freighters will allow development of the Group's scheduled business, AirBridgeCargo Airlines (ABC), and keep the airline's high growth rates. Volga-Dnepr Group was the first to order the Boeing 747-8 Freighter in Russia and took delivery of its first 747-8 Freighter in 2012. These additional 20 airplanes will be acquired through a mix of direct purchases and leasing over the next seven years.