Israel Aerospace Industries’ Airbus A330-300 freighter conversion programme is progressing with completion of the crucial main cargo door cut.
The modified twinjet – designated the -300BDSF – will have a forward main-deck door.
IAI chief Boaz Levy says completion of the cutting phase is a “pivotal milestone” in the programme.
The company is intending to convert 30 A330-300s to freighters over the next three years.
IAI says the jet’s main door has an “optimised location” and the aircraft will offer a number of enhancements including multiple powered cargo-loading system configurations, a supernumerary area and a fully-equipped galley.
Main-door cut “significantly progresses” the developmental supplementary type certificate programme, says IAI Aviation Group general manager Yaacov Berkovitz.
“[This conversion] will provide cargo operators with a highly-competitive aircraft that combines increased capacity, operational efficiency and advanced design to meet the evolving demands of modern air freight,” he adds.
