Embraer Begins Turning Older Passenger Jets Into Freighters

The move reflects the growing complexity of transport requirements that have come with the boom in the parcel delivery industry. 

The company says it launched the conversion program, known as Passenger to Freight or P2F, “to meet the changing demand of e-commerce and modern trade that require fast deliveries and decentralized operations.” Embraer says it expects the converted jets to fill a gap between turboprops and larger narrowbody freighters.

The P2F models will have more than 50 percent more cargo volume capacity, three times the range of large turboprops, and up to 30 percent lower operating costs compared with larger narrowbody jets, Embraer says. The company also says the market for this size freighter could total 700 aircraft. It has delivered more than 1,600 E-series passenger jets globally.

Last month, Embraer announced it was halting development of a new version of its E175 passenger jet in part because the downturn in travel during the pandemic reduced demand for the updated airplanes.

Conversions are available for used E190 and E195 models, typically those that have been in service for 10 to 15 years and are reaching the end of long-term leases. 

The process includes reinforcing the jet’s floor, installing cargo handling systems, barriers, a front cargo door, smoke detection systems, and other specialized features.

“The full cargo conversion will extend the life of most mature E-Jets by another 10 to 15 years,”
the company said in a statement. 

The repurposed jets are expected to enter service early in 2024.