Aeronautical Engineers Inc is developing a Boeing 737-900ER freighter conversion with 206 cu m cargo volume and 26-tonne payload, targeting 2029 certification
Conversion firm Aeronautical Engineers Inc (AEI) is developing a conversion programme for Boeing 737-900ER aircraft with a planned launch date of 2029.
AEI said the 737-900ERSF would have cargo carrying volume of 206 cu m and a payload capacity of just over 26 tonnes.
The model would be the "largest and most capable narrowbody freighter in AEI’s fleet”, offering “unmatched volume and payload advantages over existing B737 freighter platforms”.
The conversion will also have a Class-E maindeck compartment with rigid 9G barrier and smoke detection, reinforced floor structure to support high-density freight and e-commerce packages, an ANCRA cargo loading system and seating for five supernumerary passengers.
There will also be a 180-minute ETOPS option available.
AEI is aiming to achieve US FAA Supplemental Type Certification (STC) in 2029, with European EASA and Chinese CAAC approvals to follow shortly thereafter.
"This is a strategic move to address the increasing demand for higher-capacity narrowbody freighters,” said Robert Convey, AEI senior vice president of sales and marketing.
“With the global e-commerce and express markets continuing to grow, the B737-900ERSF will provide operators with the right blend of payload, volume, and economics.”
The conversion programme is being developed under a licensing agreement with Boeing.
The narrowbody freighter market is currently experiencing oversupply after a number of 737 conversions were carried out during covid as aircraft owners sought deployment for their ageing aircraft.
There are around 500 737-900ER aircraft in the market today. The first 737-900ER was delivered to launch customer Lion Air in 2007, meaning that by the time the programme is launched, the first of the model will be more than 20 years old.
