MSC Air Cargo takes delivery of second Boeing 777-200F, strengthens Asia–Europe capacity
MSC Air Cargo has taken delivery of its second newbuild Boeing 777-200 freighter, marking another milestone in the airline’s fleet and network expansion as it scales up operations across key global trade lanes.
The widebody aircraft, registered in Italy as I-MSCB Bellatrix, has been placed on the airline’s European air operator certificate (AOC) and is expected to play a central role in supporting continued growth on the Asia–Europe corridor. MSC Air Cargo said further details on route deployment will be announced in due course.
With the addition of the second 777-200F, MSC Air Cargo is further enhancing its ability to transport a broad range of cargo commodities, including pharmaceuticals, fresh and perishable goods, automotive and aerospace components, high-tech products, and other time-critical shipments. The aircraft’s long-haul range and payload capability are designed to meet the evolving demands of global supply chains, particularly on high-density intercontinental routes.
The aircraft was formally handed over by Boeing at its Everett manufacturing facility in Washington, US, during a delivery ceremony attended by representatives from both companies.
MSC Air Cargo’s first Boeing 777-200F, I-MSCA Alfirk, entered service in 2024 with Milan-based carrier AlisCargo Airlines after being acquired by MSC earlier that year. Together, the two aircraft operated under the European AOC form the backbone of MSC Air Cargo’s in-house widebody freighter operations in Europe.
Commenting on the latest delivery, Anders Matikka, vice president of MSC Air Cargo, said the aircraft underscores the airline’s long-term commitment to growth and service quality in the European market.
“The addition of a second Boeing 777 Freighter operated by MSC Air marks another important step in our operational growth and commitment to the European market,” Matikka said. “This expansion enhances our capacity and operational flexibility, enabling us to provide even more reliable and tailored solutions for our customers. Our focus remains on delivering customer-centric services that meet the evolving needs of global trade.”
From the manufacturer’s perspective, Boeing highlighted the strategic importance of the aircraft to MSC Air Cargo’s network development. Ricardo Cavero, vice president of Boeing Commercial Sales & Marketing for Europe and Israel, said the delivery reinforces the freighter’s role in long-haul cargo operations.
“With today’s newest 777 Freighter delivery, MSC Air Cargo continues to invest in its future by further enhancing the capability of its global network,” Cavero said. “The 777 Freighter is the most fuel-efficient aircraft in its class and will connect MSC’s global gateways to key international markets, offering unmatched operating efficiencies. MSC Air Cargo’s continued confidence in the 777 Freighter program is testament to the airplane’s outstanding capabilities in supporting global cargo demand.”
MSC Air Cargo launched operations in December 2022 and has since pursued a measured but steady expansion strategy. In addition to the two Boeing 777-200Fs operated under its European AOC, the airline’s wider fleet includes four Boeing 777 Freighters operated by Atlas Air under a long-term ACMI (aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance) agreement.
The latest delivery further positions MSC Air Cargo to strengthen its presence on major intercontinental trade lanes, leveraging modern widebody freighters to support the growing requirements of global shippers.
