A Look At Innovative Cargo Conversion Options

1. Cargo Combos

Company: HAECO Cabin Solutions

Specifications: HAECO Cabin Solutions is offering four adaptations for carrying cargo in the passenger cabin, which it says can be combined for both single- and twin-aisle aircraft to achieve “an ideal operational payload.”

2. 777 ‘Preighters’

Company: Austrian Technik

Specifications: Austrian Technik has performed temporary conversions of two Boeing 777 aircraft from passenger to cargo configurations to help Austrian Airlines transport more cargo during the COVID-19 crisis.

3. Cargo Containers

Company: Colibri Aero/J&C Aero

Specifications: Colibri Aero and J&C Aero have developed cargo containers for widebody passenger cabins that enable quick cargo conversions. The containers, which come in five sizes and are equipped with a smoke detector, are designed to temporarily replace passenger seats and carry up to 1,870 lb. 

4. Airbus Cargo Modification

Company: Airbus

Specifications: Airbus has developed a modification for A330- and A350-family aircraft that enables airlines to install freight pallets directly onto cabin floor seat tracks.

5. Fast-Tracked Freighters

Company: Lufthansa Technik

Specifications: Earlier this year Lufthansa Technik (LHT) fast-tracked efforts to gain regulatory approval for passenger-to-cargo modifications due to high interest from airlines. 

6. Quick-Turn Conversions

Company: Collins Aerospace

Specifications: Collins Aerospace has developed a quick-turn solution to convert passenger aircraft for cargo; it is available for any passenger aircraft model and can be completed in as little as seven days.

7. Medical Cargo Mods

Company: Magnetic MRO

Specifications: Magnetic MRO’s Part 21J team is offering cabin modifications for COVID-19 medical cargo transportation in passenger cabins. The modifications include fixing cargo boxes on seats with special straps, removal of passenger seats and installation of medical stretchers on various aircraft types.

8. Full Freighter Conversions

Company: Aeronautical Engineers Inc.

Specifications: For airlines looking to permanently rethink fleet operations, Aeronautical Engineers Inc. (AEI) designs, engineers and certifies passenger-to-freighter conversions, manufactures parts and partners with MROs to install conversions at its authorized AEI Conversion Centers across North America and China. 

With a reduction in commercial travel, and the increase of goods that need to ship quickly, cargo conversion options have ramped up during COVID-19. We take a look at innovative ideas of how the passenger fleet can be utilised for cargo. 

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