Freight Embraer signs first firm conversion contract for 10 aircraft

Embraer has signed a conversion deal with an undisclosed customer for 10 aircraft in total. The aircraft will come from the customer´s current fleet of E-Jets and will then be converted from passenger to cargo configuration.

Deliveries for this latest announcement are expected to start in 2024. It is the second agreement for the P2F programme and the first firm contract for the manufacturer. Nordic Aviation Capital agreed in principle to secure 10 conversion slots for E190F and E195F back in May.

Back in March of this year, Embraer announced its new conversion programme for the E190 and E195 regional jets. The manufacturer is joining Airbus and Boeing in offering these P2F solutions. It shows, how the constant growth in demand for air freight is now resulting in more and more airlines looking for new freight solutions. These passenger conversions enable aircraft to operate for more years efficiently.

According to Embraer, the P2F conversion aircraft will have over 50% more volume capacity, three times the range of large cargo turboprops, and up to 30% lower operating costs than narrowbodies. In total, Embraer has delivered more than 1,600 E-Jets to customers around the world.

Regarding the procedure, Embraer stated: “The conversion to freighter will be performed at Embraer’s facilities in Brazil and includes main deck front cargo door; cargo handling system; floor reinforcement; Rigid Cargo Barrier (RCB) – 9G Barrier with access door; cargo smoke detection system (class E main deck cargo compartment), Air Management System changes (cooling, pressurization, etc.); interior removal and provisions for hazardous material transportation.”

The E190F will be able to handle a payload of 23,600lb (10,700kg), while the E195F has a payload of 27,100 lb (12,300 kg).