Aero Capital Solutions (ACS) has announced commitment to convert seven Boeing 737-800s to freighters in order to grow its fleet of dedicated cargo aircraft.
The conversions will be carried out in conjunction with an STC (supplemental type certificate) provided by Aeronautical Engineers, Inc. (AEI), and add to the 14 aircraft that ACS has already committed for conversions.
The first of the additional Boeing 737-800 aircraft will commence modification in January 2022 and will be performed by Commercial Jet Inc. based in Miami, Florida, with the final aircraft commencing modification in November 2022.
Upon completion, ACS’ total freighter portfolio will comprise of 21 aircraft.
Jason Barany, CEO and Founder of Aero Capital Solutions, says: “The aircraft freighter market has strong potential that will long outlast the immediate demand effects of the Covid pandemic. ACS’ expertise in securing mid-life aircraft that are the optimal age for conversion is enabling us to create a high value, versatile narrowbody freighter fleet that is already driving interest from cargo operators and express carriers across the globe.”
The AEI converted B737-800SF freighter offers a main deck payload of up to 52,700 lbs. (23,904 kg) and incorporates eleven full height 88” x 125” container positions, plus an additional position for an AEP/AEH. The conversion also incorporates new floor beams aft of the wing box, a large 86” x 137” Main Cargo Door with a single vent door system.
Robert T. Convey, Senior Vice President Sales & Marketing of Aeronautical Engineers, says: “The B737-800SF will be the narrowbody freighter to serve the air cargo market for decades to come. With this new order, ACS has solidified their position as one of the world’s largest lessors for narrowbody freighters, and we congratulate them on their continued success.”