Boeing launched the 777-8 Freighter in January 2022 with an order of up to 50 from Qatar Airways, the largest freighter commitment by value in Boeing history. Today, the 777-8 Freighter has 59 firm orders from world-class operators, including ANA, Cargolux, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways and Silk Way West.

The new newest member of the Boeing 777X family, the 777-8 Freighter will be the world’s largest and most capable twin-engine freighter, with the highest payload and lowest operating cost per tonne of any large freighter and 30% better fuel efficiency and emissions.

Spar assembly is the traditional start of production for Boeing airplane models. And July 21, 2025, marks the start of production for the first Boeing 777-8 Freighter, with Boeing teammates drilling the first hole in the first wing spar. About 100 teammates at the 777X Composite Spar Shop in Everett Wash cheered as Casey McDowell operated the controls to drill the first hole into a wing spar for the 777-8 Freighter.

Spars are the backbone of a wing, serving as critical support structure. Each wing has two spars – one in the front, and one in in the rear.

Airlines and cargo operators have ordered 59 777-8 Freighters since Boeing launched the program in 2022. Boeing has said it is working to deliver 777-8 Freighter in 2028.

The 2025 Boeing Commercial Market Outlook projects a 67% increase in the global freighter fleet by 2044, including approximately 885 large widebody freighters such as the new 777-8 Freighter and 777 Freighter. Many operators will be looking to replace aging 747-400 Freighters later this decade. With nearly identical payload and range capabilities, 30% better fuel efficiency and emissions, 25% better operating costs per tonne and a 60% smaller noise footprint, the 777-8 Freighter will be the ideal choice. The airplane also will provide additional lift across the growing air cargo sector. Lower-density express carriers will value its superior volume, and its superior payload will benefit higher-density, general market carriers.