Originally Posted by ryane946
If you look at the large cargo companies (FedEx, UPS, and DHL), they all have "antiquated" aircraft. Some of them include DC-8, DC-9, DC-10, and the 727. Major airlines replaced these jets 5,10,15 years ago for many reasons, but I have to believe that the economics of operating these aircraft were a big reason why they were replaced. Since these cargo companies are making money right now, it seems logical that now would be a good time to invest and replace these aircraft with ones that are cheaper to operate, and have a more useful cargo load.
What do you think about this? Why haven't these been replaced even as jet fuel skyrockets? Should they or shouldn't they be replaced?
Thanks for your opinions.
You mean like brand new 747-400s and A-380s?? As far as I know, UPS and FedEx are the only US customers for the 380. UPS also just announced that we are acquiring 6 more MD-11s and 2 more 747 conversions. It sounds to me like you may be confusing prestige with airplanes. Boxes do not care what kind of plane they fly in while airline pax may. Also, don't assume that old airplanes are not worth keeping around--ever heard of the B-52 or KC-135?