Super Freighter
In the commercial market, the globalization of trade, involving "Just-In-Time" (JIT) delivery, is one of the main drivers for expanded air cargo services. Most existing air freighters are modified passenger aircraft, usually converted when they reach mid-life. These freighters, due to their cabins designed for passenger use, do not efficiently carry containerized cargo and cannot handle most oversize industrial equipment and vehicles. Also, more than two-thirds of the world air freighter fleet (approximately 900 aircraft) is over 20 years old, with most not meeting current, or projected noise and emissions standards. The retirement of these freighters, combined with the projected doubling of cargo revenue ton miles (RTMs), means that a significant market may emerge in the next decade for a new long range commercial cargo aircraft with enhanced ease of loading for containers and equipment.
LM Aero/NASA
Box Wing
Super Freighter (Civil)
Cargo Availability
- 35,000 ft.³ Cargo Volume
- 350,000 + lb. Cargo Capacity
- 48 M-1 Cargo Containers
- 36 LD-3 Cargo Containers
The Box Wing Super Freighter meets the future demands on long range cargo aircraft and is compatible with existing ground equipment. It can operate from Group 5 airports with a range in excess of 6,000 NM with a 200,000 lb. payload
The Superfreighter has cargo loading on three decks through eight cargo doors. Multiple deck allow "Combi" operation with passengers on the top deck and cargo on the lower decks.
In military service, the Super Freighter will significantly increase logistic support capability for global range military operations and provide high capacity "pipeline" mobility while allowing military transports to focus on combat support. In comparison to the B747-400F, the LM Super Freighter can provide more ton miles per day with fewer aircraft, and greatly reduced fuel costs.