CIS approves AEI conversion imports

AERONAUTICAL Engineers (AEI) has received approval to import its 737-300SF and 737-400SF passenger-to-freighter conversions to the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). These are the first conversions of a ‘Western’ company the CIS’s Interstate Aviation Committee (IAC) has approved.

Robert Convey, vice-president of sales and marketing, said that AEI’s conversions will provide CIS companies with alternatives to the ageing An-12 freighter fleet.

“Based upon our analysis the CIS countries will surpass China in the number of registered 737 classic freighters by 2013. Unlike China, the CIS demand will be driven by the need for replacement of existing freighters rather than the organic growth currently being experienced in China,” he added.

Felix Minevich, president of Omega Worldwide, which helped AEI obtain the IAC approval, said: “The certification of the AEI freighters will open up a huge opportunity for cargo operators in Russia and CIS countries. The demand for these types of freighter aircraft is enormous and we expect to immediately see conversion orders.”