Freight Runners Express (FRE) is an American cargo airline based in Milwaukee, WI. Founded in 1995, the airline has been in business for 25 years and provides express air cargo services across North America. FRE operates a fleet of Boeing 737-700 and 737-800 freighters as well as a number of other aircraft. The airline specializes in providing same day, next day and scheduled service to its customers.

FRE was founded by brothers Jeff and Joe Stemper. The Stemper brothers had been involved in the aviation industry since the 1970s and had owned and operated several other aviation businesses prior to starting FRE. In 1995, the brothers opened the first FRE office in Milwaukee, WI and began operations with two leased aircraft.

The early years of FRE were marked by significant growth and expansion. In 1998, FRE added its first two Boeing 737-700 freighters to its fleet. These aircraft allowed the airline to offer more efficient and cost-effective services to its customers. In 2000, FRE opened a new hub in Houston, TX and began offering direct service from Milwaukee to Houston.

By 2002, FRE had expanded its fleet to a total of 8 aircraft, including 3 Boeing 737-700s and 5 Boeing 737-800s. This expansion allowed the airline to offer more routes and flights to its customers. In 2004, FRE became the first cargo airline to operate the Boeing 737-800 Freighter, which allowed the airline to increase its capacity and offer more efficient service.

In 2006, FRE achieved a major milestone when it became the first cargo airline to be certified to fly extended-range operations (ETOPS). This certification allowed the airline to operate flights over longer distances and to more international destinations.

FRE also achieved several other notable milestones in its 25-year history. In 2014, the airline became the first cargo airline to be certified to use the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NextGen). In 2017, the airline was awarded the highest safety rating from the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Despite its long history of success, FRE has not been without its share of challenges. In 2011, one of FRE’s Boeing 737-800s was involved in a fatal accident. The aircraft crashed in Wisconsin after losing control in bad weather. All three of the crew members on board were killed. In addition, in 2017, the airline was the subject of a federal investigation for alleged violations of labor laws.

Despite these challenges, FRE has continued to grow and evolve over the past 25 years. The airline now operates a fleet of 12 aircraft and serves dozens of cities across North America. As FRE continues to expand and innovate, it will no doubt remain a leader in the air cargo industry for many years to come.