Hungary Airlines marks first anniversary as giant Boeing 777 cargo jet arrives in Budapest

Hungary Airlines has marked the first anniversary of its official launch with a major milestone: the arrival of Europe’s first so-called “Big Twin” cargo aircraft at Budapest Airport. The converted Boeing 777-300ERSF touched down at Ferihegy early on Christmas morning, symbolically closing the company’s first year of operations.

The Hungarian cargo airline received its Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) almost exactly one year ago. Since then, it has logged more than 4,600 flight hours and transported around 13,000 tonnes of cargo, according to figures released by the company, AIRportal.hu reports.

A milestone arrival on Christmas Day

The aircraft, registered as 9H-JJB, landed in Budapest on 25 December after being delivered in late November and entering service in early December. Operated from Hungary Airlines’ base at Budapest Airport, the jet is expected to begin regular operations within days.

The Boeing 777-300ERSF was converted from a former passenger aircraft through a collaboration between FlyMeta and Air Atlanta, making it the first aircraft of its type operating in Europe. Its festive arrival quickly attracted attention across aviation-focused social media platforms.

Expanding cargo routes between Asia and Hungary

Hungary Airlines initially launched with three weekly round-trip flights between Budapest and Hong Kong, increasing to four weekly services by April. In August, the airline obtained the necessary permits to operate in mainland China.

As a result, from September onwards, the company launched a new cargo route between Zhengzhou (CGO) and Budapest, currently operated five times a week using Airbus A330F aircraft. According to the airline, the route has delivered record traffic volumes since its launch.

The newly arrived Boeing 777 is expected to further strengthen these operations. Before entering scheduled service, the aircraft will complete one additional rotation to Hong Kong by the end of December. From early January, it will operate regular flights between Hangzhou and Budapest.

Why the “Big Twin” matters

The GE90-powered Boeing 777-300ERSF is among the most efficient large cargo aircraft currently in service. Per tonne of cargo, it can consume up to 21% less fuel than older four-engine freighters.

The aircraft’s main deck can accommodate 47 standard pallet positions, exceeding the capacity of the factory-built 777F by ten pallets and even surpassing the Boeing 747-400F by eight. Temperature control on the main deck also allows the aircraft to transport pharmaceuticals, perishable goods, and even live animals.

According to industry estimates, the type is capable of covering around 95% of routes previously operated by Boeing 747 freighters.

• Hungary Airlines: new aircraft, new routes and stable outlook – promising year ahead for the Hungarian airline

From rebranding to ambitious plans

The company has operated cargo services between China and Hungary for several years under different names. It officially rebranded as Hungary Airlines Kft. in April 2024. The airline is headquartered at Budapest Airport’s Cargo City.

Majority ownership is held by Chinese businessman Vu Jiang, who reportedly also holds Hungarian citizenship. Minority stakes are owned by Beijing-based UTL (Beijing) Digital Logistics Co. Ltd., and, since late November, the state-owned Air Hungary Zrt.

For a brief period, Hungary Airlines also appeared to be considering entry into passenger aviation. In November, company president Po Tuan reportedly signed a letter of intent with Boeing regarding the potential acquisition of 737 MAX aircraft. However, the Chinese media outlet that published the story later removed the report, leaving the airline’s future plans firmly focused on cargo—for now.

Check out AIRportal.hu’s exclusive gallery of the arrival of the new aircraft here!