On December 7, 2013,  Lufthansa’s new, ultra-modern Boeing 777 freighter aircraft made its first arrival in Houston en route to Frankfurt, Germany.

“Investing in the future is paramount, and the Boeing 777 freighter will allow Lufthansa Cargo to maintain its position as a leading air cargo carrier,” said Lufthansa Cargo Regional Director of Sales and Handling, Carl Unger. "The new 777 freighter will also allow us to meet the demands of the growing Texas oil and gas industry. We are pleased to work with a reliable partner like Houston Airport System.” 

As the Texas oil and gas industry grows, so does the need for increased shipments of oil and gas equipment from the Houston region. Oil field equipment accounts for about 70 percent of the airline's outbound cargo departing from Houston. 

Lufthansa Cargo's 777F, named “Good Day USA,” will increase the airlne's freight capacity by 20 percent at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). All of Lufthansa Cargo’s Houston service will operate with the 777F, an aircraft that is seven feet longer than its predecessor and has a wider opening that can better accommodate large oil machinery. It also emits less noise and carbon emissions and increases fuel efficiency along the trans-Atlantic route. 

Lufthansa Cargo provides direct cargo service from Houston to Frankfurt three times a week, which includes one weekly direct flight and twice-weekly service that makes a stop in Manchester, England. 

“Houston is the gateway to Texas’ energy capital, and George Bush Intercontinental Airport provides an optimum connection for specialized oil and gas equipment to Europe,” said Air Cargo Development Manager for Houston Airports, Luis Aviles. “We laud Lufthansa Cargo for taking progressive steps to prepare for the future growth of this region as well as the cargo industry overall.” 

With over one million square feet of warehouse space for airlines and cargo-related companies, George Bush Intercontinental Airport offers improved supply chain options. IAH has a state-of-the-art cargo center that can safely accommodate any type of cargo efficiently, including oversized oil field equipment, computers, auto parts, perishables and more. 

Germany ranks as Houston’s 4th largest international air cargo trade partner.