Freighter conversion specialist Avensis Aviation has launched a reversible conversion solution that allows for the speedy loading of palletised and containerised cargo without the need for a cargo door.
The Medius Elev conversion solution is the first of its kind to feature built in forward and aft lifts on the main deck floor, according to Avenis.
The company said the technology is designed to optimise TAT (turn-around-time) efficiency by significantly reducing loading and unloading times.
Cristian Sutter, chief executive of Avensis, said: “Medius Elev allows for full freighter operations with no limitations.
“By adding a main deck cargo loading system and two main deck lifts, pallets and containers can be loaded in the main deck whilst still retaining the flexibility to reconfigure the aircraft back to a passenger configuration if needed.”
Featuring a lift platform capable of accommodating a 2.4m x 3.2m container or pallet base, Medius Elev’s lift system can safely load or unload containers or pallets weighing up to 2.2 tonnes.
Main deck cargo capacity can range from a maximum capacity of 44 tonnes/ 285 m3 payload and volume for an A330-300 and up to 54 tonnes of payload and 360 m3 of volume respectively for an A340-600 aircraft.
This offers operators the flexibility to distribute different types of cargo between main deck and cargo hold, as combining the maximum payloads of both cargo holds will exceed the aircraft’s maximum structural and take-off weights.
“We designed the lifts with maintainability in mind to maximise component efficiency and reliability,” added Sutter.
“Low maintenance requirements and extended service intervals are important to our customers to ensure that down time is mitigated.
“Our built-in redundancy systems minimise any likelihood of in-service failure that could prevent the loading and unloading of cargo.
“Each lift comprises two independent operating systems as well as a backup manual override for the lift and corresponding floor locks.”
Medius Elev has a typical conversion time of three months and is part of Avensis' family of five PTF conversion products.
Avensis’ full conversion portfolio comprises Levis Xero, Medius, Medius Combi, Medius Elev and Navis.
