Boeing has reached a significant milestone, delivering its 100th 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) to SF Airlines, a Shenzhen-based cargo carrier that operates the world’s largest fleet of this aircraft model.
The handover was marked by a ceremony on February 14 at Guangzhou Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Company Limited (GAMECO), where the conversion took place.
A Key Aircraft for SF Airlines
Li Gang, vice president of maintenance at SF Airlines, highlighted the importance of the 767-300BCF in the company’s operations.
“Since introducing the first 767-300BCF to our fleet in 2016, this aircraft has become the backbone of our network due to its outstanding performance,” he said.
“Whether on high-traffic domestic routes or demanding international operations, the 767-300BCF has consistently delivered reliability and stability, enabling SF Airlines to expand its business.”
Doug Backhus, Boeing’s vice president of cabin, modifications, and maintenance, emphasized the strong partnerships involved in the aircraft’s success.
“Reaching the 100th completed 767-300BCF with SF Airlines and GAMECO is a testament to the collaboration behind designing, converting, and operating these versatile freighters,” Backhus said.
He added that the 767-300BCF would remain a crucial asset in the air cargo sector for years, offering operators the efficiency and dependability needed for success.
The 767-300BCF’s Capabilities
Boeing describes the 767-300BCF as the most efficient medium widebody twin-engine converted freighter currently available. It has a maximum cargo capacity of 56.5 tonnes and a flight range of up to 6,190 kilometers.
767 Freighter Developments
The 767-300BCF is part of Boeing’s broader 767 freighter family.
In December, Boeing recorded an order for eight 767-300 freighters from an undisclosed customer. This marked a return to orders after a pause in 2023 due to quality control issues affecting both commercial and military versions of the aircraft.
Boeing previously announced in October 2024 that it would end production of the 767F in 2027. The last orders before this decision included 10 units in 2022—eight for UPS and two for FedEx. The previous year, pandemic-driven demand led to 38 orders, including 18 from FedEx, 19 from UPS, and one from the Tanzanian government.
In 2023, Boeing delivered 10 767-300 freighters to FedEx and UPS. However, with limited feedstock available for conversions, the remaining units of the model are becoming increasingly valuable.
SF Airlines Expands Its Fleet
Beyond its investment in 767-300BCFs, SF Airlines has been modernizing its fleet. In December, the carrier introduced its first Boeing 737-800 freighter, as confirmed by the fleet tracking website Planespotters.
At that time, SF Airlines operated a fleet of 85 aircraft, including 17 Boeing 737 freighters, four 747 freighters, 43 757 freighters, and 21 767 freighters.