Boeing today announced that ST Aviation Services Company (SASCO), has completed the door cutting for the first 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF). Door cutting signifies the start of the major activity in a passenger-to-freighter (PTF). It indicates the readiness of the aircraft for the replacement of the floor structures, installation of the new door surround structures and the eventual installation of the main deck cargo door.
The aircraft was inducted on Oct. 18 this year from All Nippon Airways (ANA), the launch customer for this program. The prototype is expected for redelivery in June 2008, after completion of flight tests and certification by Boeing.
The 767-300 passenger aircraft undergoes major modifications on its main deck, with the converted 767-300 BCF expected to have about the same cargo capability as the same model production freighter with approximately 50 tonnes structural payload at a range of approximately 3,000 nautical miles (5,930km) and 412,000lbs (187,270kg) maximum take off weight. There are 24 pallet positions on the main deck. As with the other BCF conversions, Boeing offers a variety of support packages that may be incorporated during 767-300 BCF conversions, including avionics and flight-deck upgrades. Airlines may also consider options such as carbon brakes, live animal and perishable food carriage, weight upgrade and integration of technical manuals.
Photo Credit: Boeing
Source: Boeing