Boeing 757F vs. Airbus Beluga XL

The Boeing 757-200 Package Freighter (PF) is a cargo variant of the Boeing 757-200 passenger aircraft, designed for transporting cargo over medium and long distances. With its long narrow-body design, it serves as a versatile option in the air cargo sector.

Production History: The Boeing 757PF, introduced in 1987 and produced until 2004, is a direct adaptation of the passenger version of the 757-200. A total of 80 cargo versions of this model were built, reflecting its popularity and utility in the freight transportation industry. The aircraft has seen various modifications and variants over the years. Many passenger models have also been converted into freighters​​​​ once they exceed their passenger lifespan.

Design Features: The 757 freighter features a large main deck cargo door on the forward port-side fuselage. Next to this is an normal exit door used by the pilots, with all other emergency exits omitted. Similarly, all cabin windows and passenger amenities were left uninstalled. The Boeing 757-200PF has a length of 47.3 meters, a wingspan of 38 meters, and a height of 13.6 meters. It is equipped with either Rolls-Royce RB211-535E4 or Pratt & Whitney PW2000 engines. The aircraft's maximum takeoff weight is 127 tons, and it can carry up to 43 tons of cargo. The cargo hold dimensions are 33.2 m x 3.5 m x 2.4 m, accommodating 15 pallets or 39,100 kg of cargo​​.

Operational History: The Boeing 757-200 Freighter has been a mainstay in the fleets of various cargo operators. Its ability to handle diverse cargo types, from mail and goods to airline supplies, has made it a reliable choice for different logistical needs. Its performance and capacity have been especially beneficial for medium-range cargo routes​​​​. Freight operators of the 757 include UPS, FedEx, DHL, and Cargojet.

Similar Freighter Models: Comparable aircraft to the Boeing 757-200PF include the Airbus A321F, Boeing 737 Freighter, and Tupolev Tu-204. However, the 757 plays a very unique role in the air transport industry due to its size and performance capabilities. With 757s aging and on their way out of service, they will most likely be replaced by more fuel efficient narrowbodies like the 737 and A320, or newer widebodies like the 767s and A330.

The Airbus Beluga XL, officially known as the Airbus A330-743L, is a uniquely designed transport aircraft developed by Airbus. It is an evolution of the Airbus A300-600ST Beluga, tailored to meet the growing transport demands of Airbus's production network, particularly for the A350 XWB program.

Production History: The development of the Beluga XL was initiated as a response to the limitations of the original Beluga ST fleet in keeping up with Airbus's production growth. Launched in November 2014, the program focused on enhancing transport capabilities within the Airbus production network. The Beluga XL's construction involved various Airbus subsidiaries and partners, with significant components like the nose section and main freight door being developed and assembled across multiple locations in Europe. The first Beluga XL took its maiden flight in July 2018, and after a rigorous testing phase, it received European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) certification on November 13, 2019.

Design Features: Based on the Airbus A330, the Beluga XL incorporates several design modifications to accommodate large cargo. It offers 30% more capacity compared to the BelugaST, enabling it to transport two A350 XWB wings simultaneously. The aircraft features a lowered cockpit, an enlarged cargo bay, and a modified rear and tail section. The main freight door, equipped with 24 latches, and a 50% larger vertical stabilizer, are notable enhancements. The Beluga XL's overall dimensions are considerably larger than its predecessor, facilitating the transport of outsized cargo.

Operational History: The Beluga XL officially entered into service in 2020. It plays a critical role in Airbus's internal logistics, transporting large aircraft components from various production sites across Europe to final assembly lines in Toulouse, France, and Hamburg, Germany. The introduction of the Beluga XL marked a significant enhancement in Airbus's logistical capabilities, essential for maintaining production efficiency and meeting market demands.

Similar Freighter Models: The Beluga XL, while unique in its specific role within Airbus's production network, shares its category with other large cargo transporters such as the Antonov An-124 and Boeing Dreamlifter. However, the Beluga XL's design and capabilities are tailored to meet the specific logistical requirements of Airbus, distinguishing it from other freighter models in terms of specialized functionality.