USC to be launch customer for Avensis’ A340 cargo conversion programme

New airline USC has been announced as the launch customer for Avensis Aviation’s conversion programme for Airbus A340-300 and A340-600 aircraft.

The Germany-based carrier entered service early this summer with a fleet of A340-300s and A340-600s. The aircraft are initially being used on passenger ACMI services and will later be converted into a cargo configuration.

The conversion – named Navis PTF – introduces an industry-first “plug-type” maindeck cargo door. It also features a separated crew cabin section, a 9G rigid cargo barrier, a full Class-E cargo compartment and a maindeck cargo loading system (CLS).

Whilst the elements of the Navis conversion are produced, the aircraft will initially be converted with the firm’s reversible Medius conversion solution which removes seats and turns the aircraft into a Class-E freighter without the addition of a cargo door.

With this solution, aircraft can be switched between passenger and cargo when required.

Cristian Sutter, chief executive of Avensis Aviation, said: “NAVIS is our flagship PTF conversion and it is aimed at lessors and established cargo airlines that demand a permanent, innovative and cost-effective PTF solution.

“The innovative “plug type” maindeck cargo door is fully electrically operated, lightweight, and safer due to its locking mechanism design

“The Airbus A340 provides a competitive aircraft freighter platform for the express market by offering payload, volume and performance advantages, particularly for ultra long-haul routes such as Asia and other far-flown cargo hubs.”

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