[Avionics Today 12-24-2014] Demand for air cargo versions of Bombardier’s CRJ100 and CRJ200 passenger jets is growing. The Canadian airframe manufacturer recently announced IFL Group as the first operator to sign a firm purchase agreement to acquire the Bombardier CRJ200SF (Special Freighter) jet.
IFL Group CRJ200SF. Photo: Bombardier.
Prior to being delivered to IFL, the aircraft will be converted to an all-cargo configuration by Miami, Fla.-based Aeronautical Engineers Inc. (AEI). The reconfiguration includes converting the main deck to a Class “E” cargo compartment, replacement of cabin windows with aluminum window plugs and installation of a large cargo door. Robert Convey, vice president of sales and marketing at AEI, says the company is seeing demand grow for similar CRJ100 and CRJ200 conversions.
“We are seeing significant interest in the CRJ100 and CRJ200 passenger-to-freighter conversions,” said Robert Convey, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, AEI. “The dependability and affordable operating economics of both platforms make them particularly well suited for regional cargo and feed operations.”
Ross Mitchell, vice president of business acquisition at Bombardier says part of the increased demand is coming from airlines currently phasing CRJ100s and CRJ200s out of their fleets, providing “an opportunity to set new standards for regional large door freighters.”