Takuzo Nomura, NCA's senior executive managing director, said, "We are excited to take delivery of this new fuel-efficient freighter, which will be a perfect addition to NCA's cargo fleet.

"The 747-8 Freighter will provide improved economics and efficiency as well as environmental benefits that are all essential in today's market."

The airline currently operates eight 747-400 Freighters with two 747-400 Freighters on lease with other airlines.

Brad McMullen, vice president of Japan and Oceania sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, said, "Nippon Cargo is a longtime partner and valued customer of the Boeing Company.

"We will continue to work closely with Nippon Cargo as they integrate the new 747-8 Freighters into their all-Boeing fleet and help to strengthen their commitment as a market leader." 

The new airplane will become the first 747-8 to use a blend of environmentally progressive biofuels (jet kerosene and used cooking oil) to fly across the Pacific Ocean.  

Nippon Cargo Airlines, one of the launch customers for the 747-8 Freighter in 2005 and also part of a team that helped develop the aircraft, plans to begin revenue service with its new 747-8 Freighter by mid-August on Asia and North American routes.