GUY NORRIS / LOS ANGELES & NICHOLAS IONIDES / SINGAPORE
Manufacturer launches conversion programme with commitment from Cathay Pacific for up to 12 aircraft
Boeing has finally launched its 747-400 Special Freighter programme with a commitment from Hong Kong's Cathay Pacific Airways to have up to 12 passenger aircraft converted into freighters.
The deal covers six firm conversions, plus six options. Modification work will begin in April 2005. The first aircraft is expected to be completed in December 2005 and the next five by 2007. Boeing is working with China's Taikoo (Xiamen) Aircraft Engineering (TAECO) on the prototype modification. Both Boeing and Cathay are shareholders in TAECO.
The company contrasts the -400SF with the 757 passenger-to- cargo conversion for DHL, which was handled through the Wichita Modification Center in Kansas. "This time we're focusing on the things we do really well," says Boeing's Commercial Aviation Services unit, which in 2003 declared it was withdrawing from top-line conversion work and was "not in the touch labour business". The company is now providing engineering expertise and conversion kits in partnership with outside suppliers.
Cathay Pacific, meanwhile, adds that it "may convert a number of its own 747-400 passenger aircraft along with others to be purchased secondhand". The airline is seeking up to 15 used 747-400 passenger aircraft, some of which would be converted into freighters.
Both Boeing and Israel Aircraft Industries' Bedek unit have been planning 747-400 conversion programmes for some time. The modifications include strengthening the cargo floor to resemble that of the -300SF/-400BC and -400F configuration, the addition of a side-mounted -400BC cargo door, a revised upper deck floor and integrated displays, as well as several system changes. The 747-400SF will have an estimated structural payload capacity of around 113,500kg (250,000lb) with the ability to carry up to 30 2.4 x 3.2m (8 x 10.5ft) pallets a range of around 7,600km (4,100nm).
Several other Asian carriers have expressed their intention to sign up for either Boeing or Bedek 747-400 conversions, including Dragonair, Japan Airlines, Korean Air and Singapore Airlines.
Source: Flight International
