Brazil’s Embraer has announced the launch of its E190F and E195F Passenger to Freight (P2F) conversions with a mid-size jet that, capacity wise, fills a gap between turboprops and narrow-body jet freighter aircraft. The first of its converted aircraft, which is available to any pre-owned E-190 and E-195 jets, should be in service by 2024.
With the changing demands of e-commerce that not only require rapid deliveries but also decentralised operations, right-sized jets can provide the necessary cargo economics and unbeatable flexibility. “Perfectly positioned to fill the gap in the freighter market between turboprops and larger narrow-body jets, our P2F E-Jet conversion hits the market as the demand for airfreight continues to take off and as e-commerce and trade in general undergoes a global structural transformation,” said Arjan Meijer, President and CEO Embraer Commercial Aviation.
Those earlier E-Jets that entered service around ten-plus years ago are now coming out of long-term leases and commencing their replacement cycle, which will continue over the next decade. The full cargo conversion will extend the life of the most mature E-Jets by a further 10 to 15 years, as an efficient, more sustainable and quieter aircraft.
Embraer’s E-Jet P2F conversions will deliver excellent performance and economics. The E-Jet Freighter will have over 50% more volume capacity, three-times the range of large cargo turboprops, and up to 30% lower operating costs than narrow-body jets. The conversion to freighter will be performed at Embraer’s facilities in Brazil and will include: main deck front cargo door; cargo handling system; floor reinforcement; Rigid Cargo Barrier (RCB) – 9G Barrier with access door; cargo smoke detection system, including class “E” extinguishers in upper cargo compartment; Air Management System changes (cooling, pressurisation, etc); interior removal and provisions for hazardous material transportation. The E190F will be able to carry a payload of 23,600lb (10,700kg) while the E195F will be able to carry up to 27,100 lb (12,300 kg).
