Crossover jets’ utility is being tested in varying ways. In Brazil, that includes making them capable of switching between passenger and freight duties.
Azul Linhas Aéreas Brasileiras (Azul) and aeronautical engineering company LHColus Tecnologia have put the Embraer 195 E1 into service as a Class F freighter. The classification means the aircraft is certified to carry cargo in the cabin, in containers resistant to heat and fire.
The conversion was handled by Azul MRO at Viracopos Airport, under an STC developed by LHColus. Azul's engineering and cargo teams were involved in developing the STC, by defining the main requirements and solutions for the Class F configuration.
The initial two E195s to be converted were built between between 2010 and 2015.
Unlike most conversions, the Azul/LHColus version is reversible: “We can convert and reconvert any E195 whenever the cargo or pax demand requires,” Azul Cargo Express director, Izabel Reis said. “The process takes approximately eight days.”
Reis added that the aircraft have successfully completed a year in service, “opening new markets and cargo flights at airports where conventional freighters can´t operate due to lack of main cargo deck loaders.”
Azul says it can perform the conversion for other airlines on request.
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