AerCap Places Three Boeing 777-300ERSF Converted Freighters with China Southern Air Logistics

AerCap has signed lease agreements with China Southern Air Logistics for three Boeing 777-300ERSF converted freighters, expanding the cargo carrier’s long-haul fleet with the first passenger-to-freighter conversion of the Boeing 777-300ER.

The three aircraft are scheduled for delivery between late 2027 and the first half of 2028. The first freighter is expected to be delivered in October 2027, followed by the remaining two aircraft in the first and second quarters of 2028.

The 777-300ERSF, often referred to as “The Big Twin,” combines the Boeing 777-300ER’s long-range capability with dedicated cargo capacity, providing operators with a new widebody freighter option based on one of the world’s most widely operated long-haul passenger aircraft. The aircraft will be powered by GE90 engines and will complement China Southern Air Logistics’ existing Boeing 777 fleet.

“We are delighted to once again support the China Southern Group, a long-standing AerCap customer and a key participant in the global air transportation market,” said Aengus Kelly, Chief Executive Officer of AerCap. “Through this important transaction, China Southern Airlines Cargo will add three B777-300ERSF aircraft to its fleet, offering an exceptional combination of range, payload capability and efficiency, powered by the proven GE90 platform. The aircraft will integrate seamlessly into China Southern Air Logistics’ existing B777 fleet. We extend our sincere thanks to the teams at China Southern Airlines, China Southern Air Logistics and China Southern Airlines Cargo for their trust and partnership, and look forward to supporting their continued expansion.”

Li Xiao, Chairman, CSA Logistics said, “We are delighted to sign this significant agreement, extending our long-standing partnership with AerCap. The introduction of the Boeing 777-300ERSF converted freighters marks a major milestone in the continued evolution of our fleet. These aircraft will provide strong support for our strategy to expand intercontinental routes, enabling us to deliver superior service to customers worldwide.”

The agreement reflects continued demand for large widebody freighters as cargo operators expand long-haul networks to support growing cross-border trade and e-commerce volumes. For AerCap, the transaction further strengthens its cargo leasing portfolio while supporting the commercialization of the Boeing 777-300ER conversion program.