Embraer has firmed an agreement to convert up to 10 passenger E190s and E195s into cargo jets for Irish aircraft lessor Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC).
The news throws fresh momentum behind the Brazilian manufacturer’s recently launched passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion programme for E-Jets.
It builds on what had been an “agreement in principal” between Embraer and Nordic. The companies signed that deal, which covered the 10 conversions, in May.
Now, Nordic has replaced the agreement with firm orders securing 10 of Embraer’s available aircraft conversion slots, with deliveries to start in 2024, Embraer says.
“This order is now confirmed,” Embraer adds. “The aircraft for conversion will come from NAC’s existing E190/E195 fleet.”
Nordic plans to lease the first two cargo-converted E-Jets to Kenyan airline Astral Aviation.
Embraer revealed its E-Jet P2F programme in March, saying the product would help it capitalise on then-surging demand for cargo jets. It is selling modifications of E190s and E195s.
The E190F will have payload capacity of 10,700kg (23,000lb), while the E195F’s payload limit will be 12,300kg, Embraer has said.
The company is performing conversions at facilities in San Jose dos Campos, Brazil. The work involves equipping the jets with main-deck cargo doors, cargo handling systems, floor reinforcements, rigid cargo barriers and new smoke detection and air management systems.
