The US cargo carrier FedEx Express finalized the leasing of the Boeing Dreamlifter facility in Paine Field, Washington, as their operational base for the Seattle area on August 6, 2021.

The leasing consideration is directly related to Boeing ceasing their 787 Dreamliner production at the Washington-based facility to consolidate production in its assembly line of Charleston, South Carolina. 

FedEx Express indicated that a new Boeing 757 flight would operate weekly between Paine Field and their hub in Memphis, Tennessee, accelerating their deliveries in the North Seattle area by almost two hours while expanding their capacity.

“We are proud to grow our presence and enhance our services in the north Seattle market by expanding operations to Paine Field,” said Tim Wertner, Senior Vice President, FedEx Express. “Paine Field is already a driving economic force in Snohomish County, and this expansion positions our network for continued success in delivering for our customers.”

The 19.24-acres and 68,745-square foot complex, formerly known as 'Dreamlifter Operations Centre,' will be operated by the US-based air cargo carrier from September 2021.

According to Planespotters, FedEx Express currently operates a fleet of 455 aircraft, which includes 43 ATR 72s/42s, 65 Airbus A300-600s, 11 Boeing 737s, 113 Boeing 757s, 107 Boeing 767s, 48 Boeing 777s, 13 McDonnell Douglas DC-10s, and 55 McDonnell Douglas MD-11s.