Freight C&L Aviation Group completes world´s first Saab 340B+ conversion

As first company in the world, C&L Aviation Services has converted a Saab 340 B+ variant to a freighter aircraft, utilizing the EASA and FAA-approved conversion kit provided by Swedish company Täby Air Maintenance TAM.

The operator has taken possession of the aircraft and has signed an agreement with C&L for additional 5 conversions for the 340B+ in 2021 and 2022, showing the interest for the aircraft, which was originally produced as passenger aircraft between 1984 and 2005. In total, Saab manufactured nearly 100 Saab 340B+ aircraft.

Nowadays, the Saab 340 is a rare sight in passenger operations, but due to its good structural stability and durability, the aircraft is popular with cargo airlines. C&L Aviation is a specialist in converting Saab passenger aircraft to freighters and is has a big pool of spare parts for the 340.

The first converted 340B+ was built at C&L´s facility in Bangor, Maine in the United States. C&L CEO Chris Kilgour commented on the conversion: “We have been pleased with the way this first B+ model project has come together.”

C&L also explained, why the Saab 340B+ is so popular among cargo airlines: “With low acquisition costs, and a maximum cargo volume of 1,280 cu ft, and a maximum payload of 9,325 lbs., the Saab 340B+ is an ideal aircraft for cargo operation.”

Back in 2018, C&L and Täby Air Maintenance signed an agreement to collaborate in Saab aircraft conversions. Now, the first B+ model has been converted as part of this partnership, with TAM providing the needed certifications for the conversion kit and knowledge.

TAM is an independent Swedish aircraft support and maintenance company, which has put its focus on the Saab 340 and Saab 2000 aircraft families. The aircraft were built for regional operations to reach smaller airports and remote locations. “Having been in operation since 1989, TAM has all the necessary approvals, including EASA Part 145 and FAA Repair Station, thus being ideally suited to support any operation, including cargo conversions of the Saab 340,” the company stated.