Israel's Bedek group has completed the concept design for the conversion of Boeing 777s from passenger to cargo configuration, and believes that a first aircraft could enter one of its conversion hangars at the end of 2017.
Bedek says current low fuel prices – which will help to extend the operational lives of older 777s – will allow it to complete a thorough preparation for the new widebody conversion line. The company is working towards securing a supplemental type certificate to conduct such work, in conjunction with Israel's IAA civil aviation authority and the US Federal Aviation Administration.
Meanwhile, Bedek also is getting ready to operate a future conversion line for Airbus A320s and A321s. Preparations are being kept low-profile, but it seems likely that the European manufacturer's aircraft will be added to the types converted in Israel.
Part of Israel Aerospace Industries, Bedek employs 2,000 engineers and technicians. The company generated 12.6% of IAI's $3.7 billion turnover in 2015.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
