Lufthansa Cargo, the cargo airline of the Lufthansa Group, is facing significant challenges in modernizing its fleet. Delivery delays for new freighters, particularly the Boeing 777-8F, scheduled for service in the coming years, are at least one year behind schedule. This delay, coupled with the progressive aging of the global freighter fleet, is impacting Lufthansa Cargo's operational efficiency and competitiveness.
Lufthansa Cargo currently has seven Boeing 777-8Fs on order, but delivery is now scheduled to begin in 2028—a year later than originally planned. According to Heike Woerner, Director of Business Development at Lufthansa Cargo, the delays are due to ongoing supply chain issues affecting the aviation industry in general. These problems affect not only Lufthansa Cargo, but also other cargo airlines worldwide struggling with an aging fleet. Currently, around 30% of the world's freighter aircraft are over 30 years old, underscoring the need for comprehensive fleet modernization.
The delay of the Boeing 777-8F represents a setback for Lufthansa Cargo's fleet strategy. Originally scheduled for delivery in 2027, these new freighters will now have to wait for the next few years to accelerate their modernization efforts. Until then, Lufthansa Cargo will continue to rely on its existing fleet, consisting of twelve Boeing 777-200Fs and four Airbus A321-200(P2F) aircraft from Lufthansa CityLine. These aircraft do not offer the same efficiency and capacity as the newer models, which are equipped with advanced technology and can therefore better meet the growing demands of the market.
Global economic and geopolitical uncertainties
The air cargo industry is facing a difficult situation, partly due to geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties. Current developments, such as the threat of US tariffs and changes to EU regulations regarding e-commerce, pose challenges for Lufthansa Cargo. The closure of Russian airspace and the associated detours and higher operating costs have particularly impacted the airline's international business. This exacerbates the already difficult situation in an industry that relies on the most efficient and cost-effective transport of goods.
The geopolitical situation also impacts demand in the cargo business. However, Lufthansa Cargo sees opportunities in Asia – particularly in India, Vietnam, and other fast-growing markets. Economic development in these regions is leading to increasing demand for air cargo capacity, especially for high-value products such as electronics and pharmaceuticals. Nevertheless, the situation in Europe remains challenging, where Lufthansa Cargo is reporting stagnating growth rates.
Growth opportunities and prospects
Despite the challenges facing Lufthansa Cargo, there are also positive prospects for the coming years. Heike Woerner expressed her belief that demand in the air freight business will continue to grow in 2025. E-commerce, as well as demand for semiconductors and pharmaceutical products, are particularly likely to drive growth in freight transport. The increasing use of online shopping and the associated increase in international deliveries ensure that air freight will remain an important component of global supply chains in the future.
Lufthansa Cargo is focusing on these growing markets to strengthen its position in international competition. Asia, in particular, is viewed as a promising growth market. Demand for modern and efficient cargo capacity is high in many of these countries, encouraging Lufthansa Cargo to expand its services in this region.
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