Elbe Flugzeugwerke GmbH (EFW), an expert in Airbus passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversions, and MRO Japan (MJP), a prominent player in Japan’s aerospace maintenance repair and overhaul sector, have announced a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversions.
Under the MOU, MJP will serve as a subcontractor for EFW in P2F conversions and offer third-party conversion services for EFW’s Airbus A320P2F/A321P2F programmes. This collaboration will establish MJP as Japan’s premier conversion site for the new-generation Airbus narrow-body P2F aircraft.
Takashi Takahashi, CEO, MJP, said, “We are very excited about the P2F collaboration and are committed to achieving success together with EFW. We look forward to establishing a long-term strategic cooperation between the two companies for Airbus P2F conversions.”
Japan’s freighter and logistics market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% between 2024-2029, with air freight emerging as the fastest-growing segment of transportation. Compared to road freight, air freight utilising P2F aircraft offers a more efficient and environmentally friendly means of transporting goods. The success of Airbus P2F aircraft, which are currently operating reliably and efficiently for operators such as Yamato Holdings, one of Japan’s largest delivery service companies, underscores the rising demand for freighters in Japan.
EFW’s Airbus A320P2F/A321P2F programmes are developed in collaboration with ST Engineering and Airbus, with EFW holding the supplemental type certificate and leading in the overall programme as well as marketing and sales efforts. To meet the demand for Airbus converted freighters, ST Engineering and EFW have established a network of facilities across Asia Pacific, Europe and the U.S. to conduct conversions for their Airbus P2F programmes, which encompass the A330P2F, A320P2F and A321P2F platforms.
