The Freighter Replacement Gap: Why Cargo Airlines Are Stuck With Aging Fleets
Global cargo airlines are confronting a critical challenge with their aging freighter fleets, including widely used models like the Boeing 767 and Airbus A300. These older aircraft are becoming less efficient and require more maintenance, creating a pressing need for replacement. However, newly built freighters are often too large and expensive for many established cargo routes. The industry heavily relies on converting used passenger aircraft, but a severe shortage of these "feedstock" planes exists. This is because passenger carriers are flying their own jets longer due to significant delivery delays from Boeing and Airbus. This bottleneck creates a "replacement gap," forcing cargo operators to extend the life of their older, less economical fleets.
Official Source: https://simpleflying.com/why-cargo-airlines-cant-replace-aging-freighters-desperately-need-to/