IAI expects continued 747-400 conversions

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) is busy with its 737NG, 767 and 777 conversion programs but has seen continued demand for 747-400 conversions and hopes to continue its involvement in 747 conversions by teaming up with a partner. The company told Cargo Facts that in the past two years it has continued to receive requests for 747-400BDSF conversions , mainly from operators that already use the 747 platform and from those that plan to enter the market and answer the growing demand for cargo by operating this converted aircraft type. There have also been requests from investors and entrepreneurs, as well as niche lessors, according to IAI. [caption id="attachment_417794" align="alignright" width="560"] IAI is the only active STC holder for 747-400 conversions. (Photo/JetOneX)[/caption] Currently the only active STC holder for a 747-400 conversion, IAI believes that there are just under forty 747-400s remaining in storage or in service that are around 2000-vintage or younger, and which would therefore be suitable feedstock. With its own facilities in Tel Aviv (TLV) almost all dedicated to the 767BDSF and the 777-300ERSF prototype, IAI has already made a series of investments in additional lines at partner facilities including in Mexico, Italy, Ethiopia, South Korea and the U.A.E. Partnership goals The potential 747 conversion partnership would be of a different nature. IAI told Cargo Facts that it envisions a collaboration under which a potential partner will be responsible for sourcing most of the conversion kit, with IAI assisting in the manufacture of specific parts as well as providing drawings and other manufacturing documentation. IAI would also provide the necessary tooling — or the information required to produce these tools — and assist with engineering support and project management, according to the company. IAI told Cargo Facts that it estimates there are more than thirty facilities that are still capable of supporting 747 heavy maintenance work and fit IAI’s criteria to carry out conversions. Apart from production and converted 747-400Fs, other operators have picked up idled passenger and Combi units for cargo flying. IAI itself helped to return an ex-Virgin Atlantic 747-400 (29406) and an ex-KLM 747-400 Combi (30454) to service at TLV; both are now in operation with Longtail Aviation. Cargo Facts EMEA will take place LIVE May 9-11 in Dubai. Learn more and register.

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