Boeing, Silk Way West Announces Order For Three 747-8 Freighters

SINGAPORE, March 4 (Bernama) -- Boeing and Azerbaijan-based Silk Way West Wednesday announced an order for three 747-8 Freighter airplanes valued at more than US$1.1 billion at current list prices. In a statement, Zaur Akhundov, President, Silk Way Group of Companies said: "Silk Way Airlines' success and profitability as a cargo operator is a direct result of investing in its fleet and services and growing its regional and international footprint. "I am confident we will maintain our rate of growth, supported by three new Boeing 747-8 Freighters". Meanwhile, Marty Bentrott, Vice-President, Middle East, Russia and Central Asia Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes said: "The 747-8 is perfectly suited to meet the needs of Silk Way Group for their growing cargo business. "We value our partnership with Silk Way West and are grateful for their enduring confidence in Boeing and the 747-8 Freighter", Bentrott added. Silk Way West is an enterprise of the Silk Way Group, which includes 23 companies working in the aviation industry and related services. The airline currently operates seven Boeing airplanes, including two 767-300 Freighters, three 747-400 Freighters and two 747-8 Freighters. Compared one on one, the 747-8 Freighter has no competitors. The 747-8 Freighter provides cargo operators the lowest operating costs and best economics of any large freighter airplane while providing enhanced environmental performance. -- BERNAMA