September 19 - Main deck cargo provider Cargolux has rejected delivery of the first two B747-8Fs, scheduled for delivery today (Sept 19) and September 21, citing "unresolved contractual issues" between Boeing and Cargolux relating to the aircraft.

While the Cargolux board of directors took the decision to reject delivery, they have been quick to reassure the market that if the "issues cannot be resolved in a timely manner, Cargolux will source alternative capacity to fully meet customer demand and expectations ahead of the traditional high season."

Simultaneously, Seattle-based Boeing has announced that it will not make the planned first delivery of itsB747-8F, also citing "unresolved issues" with the airline. The plane maker had planned three days of celebrations to mark the long-awaited first delivery.

Industry sources suggest that if the issue is quickly resolved, Cargolux could remain the first airline to take delivery of a B747-8F. But the last two years has seen ongoing news of delivery delays.