Manufacturer: The Boeing Company
Type: Narrow-body freighter
Overview
The Boeing 757 occupies a unique place in air cargo history as a narrow-body with the performance and range of a small wide-body, often punching well above its weight. First flown in 1982 and discontinued in 2004, the 757’s freighter variants have proven remarkably durable. As of today, it remains a backbone of medium-haul express fleets, especially for operators like FedEx Express, DHL, and UPS.
While Boeing never offered a 757-300 freighter, the 757-200PF (factory-built freighter) and the more common 757-200PCF (converted freighter) dominate the cargo market. The PCF (Precision Conversions Freighter) remains one of the most popular conversion programs, with many airframes transitioning from passenger service to express package roles. The 757 is typically powered by either the Rolls-Royce RB211-535E4 or Pratt & Whitney PW2000 series engines. Both are now out of production, with parts availability becoming a growing concern. Operators and MROs report High maintenance costs, especially for the RB211s. Despite its age, the 757’s combination of range, speed, and loadability ensures it will remain relevant into the early 2030s
Key Specifications
| Metrics | 757-200PF | 757-200PCF |
| Length: | 47.32 m (155 ft 3 in) | 47.32 m (155 ft 3 in) |
| Wingspan: | 38.05 m (124 ft 10 in) | 38.05 m (124 ft 10 in) |
| Height: | 13.56 m (44 ft 6 in) | 13.56 m (44 ft 6 in) |
| Range: | ~3,150 nautical miles (5,830 km) | ~3,000–3,200 nautical miles |
| Structural Payload: | ~27,210 kg (60,000 lb) | ~27,200–27,600 kg (60,000–60,800 lb) |
| Revenue Payload: | ~23,600–25,000 kg (~52,000–55,000 lb) | ~23,000–25,000 kg (~50,700–55,100 lb) |
