Aeronautical Engineers, Inc. and EGYPTAIR have signed a contract for an AEI B737-800SF freighter modification.
The modification of the aircraft (MSN: 35560) is set to begin in October 2022. The authorized AEI Conversion Center, Commercial Jet, in Miami, Florida, will provide touch labor for the conversion and maintenance requirements.
“This order is part of EGYPTAIR’s cargo and passenger fleet modernization plan,” said Capt. Amr Abu El-Enein, chairman and CEO of EGYPTAIR Holding Company. “We will continue to increase the size of our fleet and open new freighter markets in the coming years to meet the growing needs of the local market in terms of exporting goods abroad, especially crops.”
EGYPTAIR currently operates three Airbus A330-200 freighters, each with a 60-ton capacity. EGYPTAIR’s freight operations have expanded over the course of COVID-19.
To meet the need for medical supplies and agricultural goods, the firm has launched new routes. EGYPTAIR will own and operate the first AEI B737-800SF converted freighter once it is completed.
AEI is the only company that has received ETOPS 180 permission for the 737-800 freighter conversion. Additionally, all 737-800 line number aircraft, even those with Split Scimitar winglets, can be converted by AEI.
The AEI converted B737-800SF freighter has a main deck payload of up to 52,700 lbs. (23,904 kg) and eleven full-height 88″ x 125″ container spaces, plus an AEP/AEH position.
Aft of the wing box is new floor beams, as well as a massive 86″ x 137″ Main Cargo Door with a single vent door system.
The forward-thinking design of AEI’s aircraft allows containers to be loaded 16.5″ aft of the forward door jamb, assuring ground operators have enough maneuvering room to avoid potential door and aircraft impacts.
The AEI B737-800SF also comes equipped with a flexible Ancra Cargo Loading System, a hard 9g barrier, five extra seats, a galley, and a full lavatory.