Everett, Wash., PRNewswire/ -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) today announced the delivery of a 777 Freighter to Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Crystal Cargo. Etihad Crystal Cargo is the fast growing cargo division of Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates.

The freighter is Etihad's first Boeing freighter and joins the airline's existing Boeing 777 fleet, which includes seven 777-300ERs. The 777 Freighter is the world's longest-range, twin-engine freighter and features the lowest trip cost of any large freighter.

"We are excited about this latest addition to our dedicated Crystal Cargo freighter fleet and we expect the 777 Freighter to deliver exceptional value to us and to our customers," said Kevin Knight, Etihad Chief Planning and Strategy Officer, who also leads the Crystal Cargo division. "With its proven track record, long-range capabilities and excellent operating efficiencies, the 777 Freighter will allow us to economically deliver cargo further than ever before. Our decision to invest in the 777 Freighter helps ensure that we are well positioned to serve our customers' long-term needs."

The 777 Freighter is based on the technologically advanced 777-200LR (Longer Range) passenger airplane and can fly 4,900 nautical miles (9,070 kilometers) with a full payload of 225,200 pounds (102 metric tons). With high-cargo density and 10-foot (3.1-meter) interior height capability, the 777 Freighter provides a cargo capacity normally associated with larger airplanes.

"The 777 Freighter has consistently delivered the highest levels of reliability and efficiency since it entered service in 2009, making it the long-range freighter of choice for a number of airlines and cargo operators around the world," said Marty Bentrott, senior vice president for Sales, Middle East, Russia and Central Asia, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "We are confident that the 777 Freighter's high capacity and range, combined with the lowest trip cost of any large freighter, will add a tremendous amount of value to Etihad's air cargo operations."

Boeing is the air cargo industry leader, using its expertise to support customers in their success and to promote the industry. The company also offers the most complete family of freighters, which provide superior efficiency and operational economics in support of airline profitability.

Source: Press Release (Boeing)