Conversion specialist EFW is to co-operate with MRO Japan on passenger-to-freighter modifications, through an agreement which includes establishing a Japanese conversion site.
MRO Japan will serve as a subcontractor and provide third-party conversions of Airbus A320 and A321 twinjets.
The company is based in Naha, on the island of Okinawa.
EFW says the firm will become Japan’s “first conversion site” for the Airbus single-aisle freighters.
“Success of the A321P2F aircraft for our customer Fuyo, and end customer Yamato Holdings, shows how the narrowbody [Airbus] platform is a perfect fit for the cargo transportation needs in Japan and the region,” says chief executive Jordi Boto.
He says the Japanese cargo market, particularly air freight, is growing and partnerships with such companies as MRO Japan will provide “necessary strategic support” to participate.
“We look forward to establishing a long-term strategic co-operation between the two companies for Airbus P2F conversions,” adds MRO Japan chief Takashi Takahashi.
EFW, which is a joint venture between Airbus and ST Engineering, offers a range of freighter modification programmes which also features the widebody A330.
