December 19, 2025 – Washington, D.C. – Boeing Co. (BA) has formally requested a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) waiver to bypass upcoming airplane emissions rules, allowing the company to sell an additional 35 Boeing 777F freighters before the next-generation 777-8 Freighter enters service. The move comes as Boeing faces strong global demand for cargo aircraft and delays in the certification of the 777-8F.

The FAA’s new emissions rules, which will take effect in 2028, set stricter carbon pollution standards for large commercial aircraft. Boeing argues that without a temporary exemption, it may struggle to meet customer demand for freighters before the 777-8F, designed to comply with these new standards, becomes available.

Boeing’s Request and Timeline

Boeing aims to secure FAA approval for the waiver by May 1, 2026, ensuring uninterrupted deliveries of 777F freighters to commercial customers worldwide. According to the company, the first 777-8F delivery is projected to occur approximately two years after the first 777-9 delivery, which is currently targeted for 2027.

The waiver would allow Boeing to continue producing and selling the 777F, the most fuel-efficient large widebody freighter currently in production, without violating upcoming emissions regulations.

Strategic Importance of 777F Freighters

Boeing emphasized the critical role of large freighters in global trade. In 2024, air cargo exports reached $600 billion, with more than $260 billion transported on widebody freighters like the 777F. Each 777F delivered to a foreign customer represents $440 million in catalog value, meaning the waiver could help preserve over $15 billion in U.S. export value.

The 777F is currently the only large widebody freighter in production, making it essential for airlines and logistics companies that rely on efficient, long-range cargo capacity.

Context: FAA Emissions Rules and U.S. Climate Goals

The FAA adopted international aircraft carbon emissions standards in February 2024 under the Biden administration, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas pollution from U.S. commercial aircraft. These standards, part of a broader climate action plan, target net-zero greenhouse gas emissions from aviation by 2050. Existing aircraft already in service are exempt from these rules, but new production will need to comply starting in 2028.

Last year, Congress allowed Boeing to continue producing its 767 freighter through 2033, exempting it from the upcoming efficiency rules. Boeing is now seeking a similar temporary exemption for the 777F to bridge the gap between current production and the introduction of the next-generation 777-8F.

Global Impact and Market Outlook

Boeing’s request underscores the high demand for air cargo capacity amid ongoing global trade growth. Airlines and logistics operators continue to rely heavily on large freighters for long-haul international shipments. Approval of the waiver would ensure Boeing maintains its market leadership in the widebody freighter segment while supporting U.S. export competitiveness.