African freighter operator Allied Air has signed up for four B737-800 conversions to be carried out by Aeronautical Engineers Inc (AEI).
The agreement calls for two firm orders with an additional two options.
The first aircraft (MSN 36746) will commence modification in mid-March 2020 and all touch labour will be performed by AEI Partner Commercial Jet in Miami, Florida.
Currently, the Nigerian carrier operates a total of three AEI B737-400SF freighters and flies for the DHL network within Africa as well as the Central Bank of Nigeria.
The B737-800 aircraft represents the first African airline owned B737-800SF freighter, and will also be the youngest 737-800 converted to date.
The AEI converted B737-800SF freighter offers a maindeck payload of up to 52,700 lbs. (23,904 kg) and incorporates eleven full height 88” x 125” container positions, plus an additional position for an AEP/AEH.
The conversion also incorporates new floor beams aft of the wing box, a large 86” x 137” main cargo door with a single vent door system, and an Ancra cargo loading system.
Additionally, the AEI B737-800SF includes a rigid 9g barrier, up to five supernumerary seats, a galley and full lavatory.
