FedEx

American courier delivery major FedEx is reportedly planning to purchase at least 25 Boeing wide-body 767 cargo aircraft.

Sources familiar with the matter were quoted by Bloomberg as saying that the directors of the shipping company have discussed a possible deal with Boeing, which could be worth around $5bn.

FedEx spokesman Jim McCluskey said: "We constantly work on aligning our fleet plans with our business needs.

"We have nothing to announce at this time."

If a deal is reached, Boeing will record significant sales for the wide-body aircraft, particularly the cargo version.

"The new aircraft are expected to make FedEx the largest customer for the wide-body jet."

FedEx currently has 35 767-300 freighter aircraft on order. The new aircraft are expected to make FedEx the largest customer for the wide-body jet.

In 2011, the company placed an order for 27 767-300 Freighters, and exercised options for two 777s.

Built on the 767-300ER (extended range) design, the 767 Freighter can carry 58t of cargo on the intercontinental range.

Boeing is currently redesigning a version of the 767 for the US Department of Defense.

The company builds both civilian and military versions of 767 at its manufacturing plant in Everett, Washington, US.

Image: Boeing aircraft owned by FedEx. Photo: courtesy of Boeing.