Jat Tehnika completes first 767-300ER freighter conversion for Challenge Group
16 / 08 / 2023
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Serbian Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Jat Tehnika said it has carried out the first Boeing 767-300ER freighter conversion in Europe, for Challenge Group.
In October last year, Challenge Group became the first customer for the B767-200/300 conversion programme launched by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in cooperation with Polish maintenance and engineering specialist Avia Prime Group and its subsidiary JAT Tehnika.
Challenge Group is due to receive another three aircraft – one every three months.
The subsidiary of Avia Prime Group said in a LinkedIn post on Friday 11 that the aircraft, with registration number 9H-CAC, took off that day from Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport towards the Maltese capital, Valletta, after being handed over to Challenge Group.
“We are excited because the bold vision that emerged six years ago has become a reality today,” said Piotr Kaczor, chief executive of Avia Prime and Jat Tehnika. “We have been preparing for this for a long time, going through the most demanding aviation authority checks, and we are proud of the new technology and know-how that have been applied for the first time in Belgrade.
“This is the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Avia Prime Group and European aviation, which will strengthen our position as the main European supplier for the conversion of Boeing and Airbus wide-body aircraft.”
Yossi Shoukroun, Challenge Group chief executive commented: “Today marks a crucial milestone in our history as we welcome a new addition to our fleet—the Boeing 767 converted freighter. This delivery signifies more than just the introduction of a new aircraft type. It symbolizes the commencement of our ambitious fleet expansion plan, which aims to triple our fleet by the year 2026 by incorporating three different aircraft types into our fleet, including the efficient Boeing 777 aircraft in the near future.”
JAT Tehnika is based at Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport. It offers 14 maintenance slots in two hangars, an engine test bench for engines rated up to 75,000 lbs, plus back shops.
