DUTCH carrier Martinair has received its first of four Boeing 747-400 BCFs aircraft. The new aircraft will replace the ageing 747-200 currently in service.

The 747-400 BCF was converted in the Chinese city of Xiamen in compliance with the official Boeing Converted Freighter program. It is expected that this aircraft consequently lowers fuel consumption.

The conversion of this 747-400 BCF kicked off in July 2006. The aircraft was formerly in use as a passenger aircraft for Singapore Airlines. Under Boeing’s supervision, the machine was converted by TAECO in Xiamen. The body now boasts a new side cargo door and the modified structure of the main-deck now features a new cargo loading system.

All four Boeing 747-200s currently operating in the Martinair fleet, will be replaced by Boeing 747-400 BCFs. The other three aircraft will be taken into operation in February 2007, October 2007, and the last February 2008. Martinair Cargo will deploy these aircraft on routes to and from the Middle East, the Far East and Australia.