Scandinavian airline West Air Sweden and BAE Systems Aircraft Services expect the first aircraft in their joint ATP freighter conversion programme to be completed with the installation of a large freight door by late this year.
West Air has converted three ex-United Feeder Services ATPs to a freight role and is set to complete conversion of the fourth turboprop by next month, when a further two aircraft are due to be delivered.
The conversion comprises 15 modifications, including reconfiguring the interior into an E-class cargo compartment, upgrading the cockpit with Universal Avionics' UNS-1K flight management system and adapting the aircraft from Federal Aviation Administration to Joint Aviation Authorities regulations. Installation of the freight door on the first ATP is due to start in June.
The first three ATPs are operating on West Air's domestic overnight freight network, but the installation of the 1.72m x 2.63m (5.6ft x 8.6ft) freight door - based on the British Aerospace 748 door - will allow the 8t freighter to carry large cargo items.
Source: Flight International
