YTO Airlines is to be Boeing’s launch customer for the Boeing 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) programme.

The Chinese express carrier based in Hangzhou operates Boeing 737-300 Freighter aircraft on domestic and international routes. Boeing says the 737-800 will be the first next generation 737 to be converted.

Boeing Commercial Aviation Services vice president of sales, Rick Anderson says: “We are honoured that YTO Airlines chosen to partner with Boeing as it expands its operations and freighter fleet. We are confident the 737-800BCF … will provide the airline with a competitive advantage in the marketplace.”