Emirates SkyCargo to get A340-500 boost

Emirates SkyCargo will shortly start services with the new A340-500 aircraft, utilising it on the Sydney/Auckland routes from December 1.

It is designed to accommodate six pallets and 12 containers, with a capacity of 16 tonnes of cargo or 90 cubic metres with a full passenger load.

"With the A340-500 servicing Sydney and Auckland, retailers in both cities and their hinterlands can now plan and stock consumer goods using just-in-time methods," said Peter Sedgley, vice-president for cargo commercial operations.

"Similarly, dairy products, fish, flowers, fruit and meat from Australia and New Zealand will reach supermarket shelves in these regions, both faster and fresher. The new services are commencing at the right time, when demand for consumer goods and perishables peak during the holiday season."

The new aircraft will also serve non-stop routes to New York and San Francisco and to Melbourne. These destinations will come on board after Emirates receives delivery of all A340-500 aircraft in 2004.

The new aircraft are part of the airline's $26 billion order book, which also includes 26 Boeing 777-300s, 20 A340-600s, eight A340-300s and two A380-500 freighters. More than 100 new jets are on order to be delivered to the Dubai-based carrier by 2012.