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Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has made significant progress in the conversion of passenger aircraft to freighters (P2F). The company announced that the conversion of an Airbus A330-300 is now complete and the aircraft has been removed from the jacks. This means that the program has finished the essential structural work and is now in the ground and flight testing phase. The first flight of the converted aircraft is planned for the coming weeks, while certification is expected by the end of the year.
Expansion of conversion capabilities
IAI is one of the few companies worldwide that possesses the necessary capabilities to carry out complex conversions for both Airbus and Boeing aircraft. In light of the increasing global demand for freighter aircraft, IAI is expanding its network of conversion facilities to offer flexible and valuable solutions for airlines, leasing companies, and freight operators.
Boaz Levy, President and CEO of IAI, commented on this progress: “This success is another step towards realizing IAI’s long-term vision of expanding our role in the global air freight market. By continuously developing our technological and industrial capabilities, we are able to provide scalable and reliable solutions that meet the evolving operational requirements of our customers.”
Technical details of the conversion
The conversion of the A330-300BDSF offers a modern solution for freight operators, with an increased cargo capacity of up to 30 containers and a payload of up to 61 tons. It is designed for regional and medium-range freight missions and enhances loading efficiency through an advanced cargo management system and optimized cargo flow. The forward positioning of the main deck cargo door also reduces operational time by enabling faster loading and unloading. Furthermore, the robust global fleet of A330-300 aircraft represents an attractive next generation for renewing older fleets.
IAI has been a pioneer and global market leader in the conversion of passenger aircraft to freighters for over 45 years, providing comprehensive solutions across all segments of the aviation market. Trusted partners include industry leaders such as Amazon, Gulfstream Aerospace, and DHL. IAI has established itself as a leading conversion company with expertise in a wide range of aircraft models and operational requirements.
