Freight AEI receives Canadian approval for CRJ200 Freighter conversion

The manufacturer has currently 45 firm orders and commitments for the CRJ200 SF Freighter. Back in 2016, AEI received the original FAA approval and in May 2018 the EASA approval. The approval in Canada now is yet another milestone for the airline.

Since the initial certification, AERI has delivered a total of 10 CRJ200 SF´s and plans to redeliver the 11th aircraft this month. The idea behind the freighter conversion is to extend aircraft life and therefore increase the overall value of aircraft assets.

Robert T. Convey, AEI Senior Vice President Sales and Marketing said: “As a Canadian manufactured aircraft, there is of course great regional interest in the AEI converted CRJ200 SF freighter [...] There are many routes in Canada which make for a perfect fit for this freighter.”

The AEI CRJ200 SF provides a payload of up to 6,611 kg (14,574 lbs.) to its customers. The specific payload however will always depend on the aircraft model. Over the course of the conversion, a 96” x 70” large Main Cargo Door will be installed to provide better efficiency.

Moreover, an ANCRA Cargo Loading System will be able to carry eight 61.5” x 88” containers within the aircraft. This system proves that the aircraft is being utilized in the most efficient way. The CRJ200 SF is especially of interest for carriers that plan to fly regional cargo routes. The original CRJ200 in the passenger version was designed to serve in the regional aviation market as well.

Aeronautical Engineers Inc. (AEI) is a leader in the passenger aircraft to freighter conversion business. The company was founded in 1958 and has since then modified over 480 aircraft. In addition, AEI has developed over 128 Supplemental Type Certificates.

Currently, AEI offers passenger-to-freighter conversions for the aircraft Boeing 737-800, Boeing 737-400, Boeing 737-300, McDonnell Douglas MD-80 series and the CRJ200 aircraft. Recently, AEI has received an order from Automatic for B737-400SF conversion.