Three Former Passenger 767s Will Be Enlisted For Cargo Duty

Many airlines, both domestic and abroad, are no longer simply in the business of hauling passengers from one spot to another. Lately, increasingly popular -- and profitable -- cargo hauling operations have gained in importance, as well. Responding to this increase, Tokyo's All Nippon Airways has announced it will be launch customer for the 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) program by accepting three 767-300 airplanes -- converted by Boeing from passenger duty with the airline to freight haulers -- with an option for four more.

"Our great experience with the Boeing 767 is very important in our selection of the 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighter," said Mineo Yamamoto, president and CEO of All Nippon Airways. "The projected growth of Asian cargo traffic provides an outstanding opportunity for us, and this new model will be very important in the development of our cargo operation and in our new joint venture with Japan Post."

In order to be converted to a freight hauler, a 767-300 passenger plane will receive major modifications to its main deck, such as a side cargo door and surrounding structure, floor beams, and struts. Floor panel and freighter tracks will also be installed as provisions for a buyer-furnished cargo handling system, according to a company press release. Wall and ceiling liners designed to accommodate standardized cargo pallets will be included as well, with provisions for up to 24 pallets on the main deck.

"We are very pleased that ANA has chosen the 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighter and will be our first customer for this important new addition to our freighter family," said Alan Mulally, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. "The 767-300 Boeing Converted Freighter is a wonderful solution for ANA's operation in the dynamic Asian cargo market."

When unveiled, it is expected a converted 767-300 ER-freighter will have virtually identical capacity to the regular-line production freighter, with up to 54 tons structural payload and a range of approximately 3200 nm. A maximum takeoff weight of 412,000 lbs is projected.

Boeing, as the original equipment manufacturer, offers a variety of support packages that may be incorporated during freighter conversions, including avionics and flight-deck upgrades. Airlines may also consider options such as carbon brakes, live animal and perishable food carriage, weight increases and integration of technical manuals. Customers will also have access to such customer support programs as MyBoeingFleet.
 
A modification site has yet to be determined for the prototype airplane, nor has the value of the deal been released.

FMI: www.boeing.com, www.fly-ana.com