The first cargo version of Boeing's Next Generation 737, the 737-700C convertible, began a five-month flight test programme on 14 February.
The first four -700Cs are destined for the US Navy, and dubbed C-40As. The aircraft incorporates a 3.35 x 2.13m (11 x 7ft) forward freight door, and the strengthened wing and undercarriage of the heavier -800 model. The naval version will be operated in three configurations: an all- passenger layout seating 121, an all-cargo configuration with up to eight pallets, or a "combi" configuration with three pallets and 70 seats. The US Navy expects to take delivery of the first of four aircraft on firm order early next year. More C-40As are expected to be ordered by the end of this year, says Boeing, which is "in talks" with the USN for replacing 27 McDonnell Douglas DC-9-based C-9 Nightingales.
Source: Flight International