China Airlines has committed to a further four Boeing 777Fs increasing its orders for the type to ten. The move comes as the Taiwanese carrier continues to enjoy record levels of cargo demand, with 2021 the best year in its history, racking up more than $3.6bn in revenue.

The order, which Boeing advises is worth $1.4bn at list prices, will enable the airline to increase its foothold in the southeast Asian freight market. Last year, China Airlines' air cargo revenue was up 186% above the pre-pandemic year of 2019, which almost balanced out a 96% drop in passenger revenue.

Ihssane Mounir, Boeing’s senior vice president of commercial sales and marketing, said: "We are thrilled that China Airlines has again selected the 777 Freighter to serve as the backbone of its world-class air cargo fleet. The market-leading capabilities of the 777 Freighter provide added capacity, improved efficiency and greater value to China Airlines' customers, enabling the carrier to meet air cargo demand and position itself for long-term growth."

Hsieh Su-Chien, China Airlines’ chairman, added: "The 777 Freighter has played a critical role in our efforts to maintain profitability during the pandemic, and these additional airplanes will be an integral part of our long-term growth strategy. We are excited to add more 777 Freighters due to their operational efficiency and reliability. Our fleet modernization programme will enable us to deliver added value to our customers, especially as the global supply chain continues to evolve."

China Airlines’ cargo division operates an 18-strong fleet of Boeing 747-400Fs, while it has received a trio of 777Fs from its combined order for ten examples. It is set to receive its full complement of twin-engined widebody freighters by 2024.