Bedek Converts First 767-300 Freighter

Israel Aerospace Industries' Bedek Aviation Group completed its first conversion of a 765-300 aircraft from passenger to freighter configuration.

The plane has completed ground tests, and the first flight took place on Oct. 27. Flight testing is underway. Certification and delivery to the customer, Portuguese airline euroAtlantic Airways, is anticipated before the end of 2009.

Bedek said its customer is a Passenger Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance (ACMI) airline for whom this is the first cargo aircraft, signaling the company’s intention to expand its operations into the freighter market.

The conversion program was developed by Bedek for M&B Conversions of Dublin, Ireland, a joint venture company of Mitsui & Co. of Japan, and IAI/Bedek.

Contact Thomas L. Gallagher at tgallagher@joc.com.