Aircraft modification specialist Aeronautical Engineers has launched development of a Boeing 737-900ER passenger-to-freighter conversion programme, with a 2029 certification goal.
The Miami firm already offers cargo conversions of several aircraft types, including 737-300s, 737-400s, 737-800s, MD-80s and MHIRJ CRJ200s.
The new 737-900ERSF (extended range special freighter) will be “the largest and most-capable narrowbody freighter” in its line-up ”offering unmatched volume and payload advantages over existing 737 freighter platforms”, the company says.
“This is a strategic move to address the increasing demand for higher-capacity narrowbody freighters,” adds Aeronautical Engineers senior vice-president of sales and marketing Robert Convey.
“With the global e-commerce and express markets continuing to grow, the 737-900ERSF will provide operators with the right blend of payload, volume and economics.”
The 737-900ERSF will have 206cu m (7,273cu ft) of cargo space, accommodate 12 cargo pallets and carry 26,172kg (57,700lb) of payload. It will have an 85.3t maximum take-off weight and seats for five passengers.
“We are launching the programme on spec and will look to secure an operator closer to the end of the programme,” Aeronautical Engineers says.
The modification work involves reinforcing the jet’s floors and installing a cabin barrier, a cargo loading system supplied by Ancra Aircraft, and a left-side forward cargo door measuring 2.2 x 3.5m (86 x 137in), Aeronautical Engineers says.
The firm will offer the 737-900ERSF with optional 180min extended-operations capability.
It is developing the aircraft under a licensing agreement with Boeing and expects the Federal Aviation Administration will approve a supplemental type certificate for the modified aircraft in 2029, followed “shortly thereafter” by approvals from European and Chinese regulators.
Airlines globally operate about 475 737-900ERs and have another 25 in storage, of which most were formerly in service with Indonesian carrier Lion Air, according to fleet data provider Cirium.
“We expect to convert between 200 and 300 units,” Aeronautical Engineers says.
The firm works with conversion facilities operated by Commercial Jet in Miami, Florida and Dothan, Alabama; KF Aerospace in Canada; and Taikoo (Shandong) Aircraft Engineering Company (STAECO) and HAECO Xiamen in China.
Story updated on 27 October to include comments from Aeronautical Engineers.
