ISRAELI AIRLINE Arkia and the Bedek division of Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) are to co-operate in converting up to six 747-200s to cargo configuration. Arkia will purchase the aircraft and Bedek is to convert them. The work will also include D-checks and Section 41 upgrading.
Arkia, which operates domestic flights and international charter flights from Israel, has also specialised in leasing wide body cargo-aircraft. The airline is now leasing four 747s to US cargo operators and, according to David Borovich, the carrier's managing director, the new deal "...is a direct reaction to the current demand".
A consortium of foreign banks will participate in financing the deal. At least two of the aircraft are already destined for lease to Polar Air.
The US airline is already operating one 747 which has been converted by Bedek, and is due to receive another aircraft soon.
Source: Flight International
