Etihad Engineering has signed a strategic partnership with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to provide passenger-to-freighter conversions on Boeing 777-300ER aircraft.
Etihad Engineering said that whilst the Covid-19 pandemic has taken its toll on the aviation sector, cargo operations are offsetting operators’ losses. As a result, the industry anticipates an increase in demand for widebody freighter aircraft.
In the initial stage of the partnership, Etihad Engineering will support two conversion lines accommodating multiple aircraft conversions per year.
Tony Douglas, group chief executive officer, Etihad Aviation Group, said: “The B777-300ERSF is not only extremely attractive to customers but a technological breakthrough, given that it’s the first in its size category to offer extensive cargo solutions.
“Not only do we see the demand, but we view it as a greener, more profitable, highly innovative solution for our airline customers, and an excellent way to drive value for our business.”
