FedEx Corp has announced significant updates to its fleet strategy, indicating an emphasis on modernization and operational efficiency in its third-quarter financial report. The Memphis-based cargo airline revealed plans to postpone the retirement of its MD-11 tri-jet fleet from 2028 to 2032, while simultaneously exercising options for the purchase of eight additional Boeing 777 freighters. This dual maneuver illustrates FedEx’s intention to enhance its freight capabilities amid evolving market demands.
As part of a robust modernization initiative, the company expects to receive its first three Boeing 777 freighters in 2026, with an additional five freighters set to arrive by the end of 2027. Currently, FedEx operates a total of 58 Boeing 777-200F aircraft, which have an average age of 9.4 years. Utilizing the more fuel-efficient 777 freighters is part of an overarching strategy aimed at achieving significant long-term operating savings. “We have several aircraft modernization programs under way that are supported by the purchase of Boeing 777 Freighter and Boeing 767-300 Freighter aircraft,” the company stated. “These aircraft are significantly more fuel-efficient per unit than the aircraft types previously utilized, and these expenditures are necessary to achieve significant long-term operating savings and to replace older aircraft,” FedEx added.
In yet another critical step towards expanding its capabilities, FedEx officially announced on March 21, 2025, the order of 10 ATR 72-600 turboprop freighters. This order adds to FedEx’s previous commitment of 30 such aircraft announced in late 2017. Deliveries of the ATR 72-600F freighters will take place between 2027 and 2029. The ATR 72-600F stands out as the only purpose-built regional freighter currently in production, offering a 9.2-tonne payload and optimized volume capacity that enhances FedEx’s operational reach.
ATR’s Senior Vice-President of Commercial, Alexis Vidal, emphasized the significance of this deal, stating, “FedEx’s decision to order additional ATR 72-600F underscores their trust in our aircraft’s performance and versatility. Our freighter variant is an essential component of the ATR family, offering significant advantages over traditional passenger-to-freighter conversions, including enhanced reliability and availability, and longer-term planning.” FedEx has utilized ATR aircraft since 2020 for critical feeder operations, playing a vital role in their coverage of smaller markets.
Despite these advancements, FedEx is also facing challenges with its aging MD-11 fleet. The decision to extend its retirement until 2032 allows the company time to effectively transition to more modern aircraft while maintaining operational flexibility. The MD-11s, which average 31.5 years in age, currently number 58 in FedEx’s fleet. Interestingly, more than half of these aircraft are not in active service at the moment. The specifications of the MD-11 freighters allow a maximum payload of 83,779 kg (184,700 lb) with GE engines and 83,922 kg (185,016 lb) with Pratt & Whitney engines.
Moreover, as part of its ongoing modernization, FedEx has also firmed options for ten more ATR 72-600 freighters, which are slated for delivery aligned with its increased demand for regional airlift capabilities. This decision follows a trend that emphasizes the value of efficiency and reliability in cargo operations as FedEx continues to explore new market dynamics.
Overall, the recent decisions by FedEx reflect a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing cargo transport capabilities, reducing operational costs, and adapting to an increasingly competitive landscape of global logistics. With a total operational fleet that includes 37 MD-11Fs, 57 777Fs, 143 767Fs, 92 757s, and 65 Airbus A300-600s as of March 2025, the company’s direction points toward an efficient future.
In conclusion, as FedEx moves forward with these plans, the company is setting a strong foundation for its long-term operational strategies while ensuring that it continues to meet the demands of the freight industry effectively. Observers will undoubtedly keep a close eye on how these changes impact FedEx’s operational efficiency and market position in the years to come.
