Fokker conversion specialist Aircraft Conversions (stand W471) is putting the disappointment of its absent demonstrator behind it as it looks to capitalise on demand in the region for freighter aircraft.
The company, which holds 10 orders for its Fokker 50 Freighter conversion, was aiming to have an aircraft owned by Italian cargo specialist MiniLiner in the static park. "Unfortunately it had an AOG on an engine," says Aircraft Conversions chief executive A J Smith.
The Fokker 50 was due to route through Dubai on its way to India where MiniLiner has placed both its aircraft under a contract with cargo airline Deccan 360, adds Smith.
There are almost 200 of the twin turboprops worldwide. Smith says it is able to undertake around four conversions a year, using its Denver-based partner Straight Flight Conversions. "We want to beef this up to seven to eight a year."
The company is evaluating other conversion centres worldwide so it can offer modifications in Europe and Asia, says Smith.
Meanwhile, Fokker Services will launch today a four-module enhancement programme for Fokker aircraft dubbed "Fly Fokker". These will centre around the figure six, with for example an ACMI turnkey launch package being offered that will enable operators to be up and flying within six weeks, says Fokker Services vice-president marketing and sales Erik Goedhart.
Source: Flight Daily News
