Sine Draco Aviation Development has selected Ascent Aviation Services in Tucson, Arizona, for modification and completion of its prototype A321 passenger to freighter conversion (A321-200 SDF).
Ascent Aviation Services will be performing the modification of the airplane by completing the touch labor, modification planning and inspection requirements. Ascent will also be completing a heavy check during the modification and providing maintenance support during the ground and flight test program following conversion.
FAA approval anticipated in late 2021/early 2022.
Sine Draco's chief executive Alex Deriugin said: "The selection and partnership with Ascent Aviation Services to perform the conversion of Sine Draco's prototype A321-200 airplane is a significant milestone for our conversion programme."
The Sine Draco A321-200 SDF passenger to freighter conversion includes installation of a 142-inch-wide by 86-inch-high maindeck cargo door, Class E maindeck cargo compartment with fourteen 88 inch by 125 inch container positions. The lower cargo compartments can also accommodate ten containers, with the A321 being the first airplane type in the narrow body freighter class with this capability.
Several companies are in process of launching A321 converted freighters, which will look to complete with B737 and B757 freighter conversions.
