MRO Japan and EFW announce partnership in P2F conversion

Elbe Flugzeugwerke GmbH (EFW) and MRO Japan (MJP) have announced a partnership in P2F conversions. This partnership will establish MJP as Japan's first conversion site for next-generation Airbus narrow-body P2F aircraft. The contract was signed at the inaugural Airbus and EFW P2F Symposium Japan.

Under the terms of the contract, MJP will act as a subcontractor for EFW, offering third-party conversion services for EFW's Airbus A320P2F/A321P2F programmes. Onboarding MJP as EFW's newest modification site involves rigorous training in tooling, engineering, supply chain management, industrialisation and quality assurance to achieve operational readiness and uphold high standards. The first aircraft induction for conversion is expected to begin by the end of 2025.

“We are excited to have MJP join our global network of P2F conversion sites,” said Jordi Boto, CEO of EFW. “Collaborating with experienced and well-backed aircraft solution providers like MJP supports our capacity for freighter conversions, enabling us to capture opportunities in the growing Japanese air cargo market.”

The Japanese freighter and logistics market is projected by industry researchers to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2% between 2024 and 2029, with air freight expected to be the fastest-growing sector by transport mode. Compared to road freight, air freight using P2F aircraft offers a more efficient and environmentally friendly method of transporting goods. The growing success of Airbus P2F aircraft, currently operating reliably for companies including Yamato Holdings, one of Japan's largest delivery service providers, highlights the increasing demand for freighters in Japan.

EFW's Airbus A320P2F/A321P2F programmes are developed collaboratively by ST Engineering, Airbus, and EFW, with EFW holding the supplemental type certificate (STC) and leading the overall programme.