The test flight of the 777-300ER. Photo: IAI
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Sharp Technics K (STK) and Incheon International Airport have laid the foundation for a Boeing 777 passenger-to-freighter conversion facility at Incheon Airport in the Republic of Korea.
A ceremony on April 18 marked the laying of the cornerstone for the 777-300ER (Big Twin) conversion facility and follows an agreement between IAI, STK and and Incheon International Airport Corporation in April 2023 to establish the facility. IAI previously said it plans to begin conversions at the facility this year.
The B777-300ERSF is the first passenger-to-freighter aircraft conversion programme of the B777-300ER. The first aircraft in the programme was converted last year for lessor AerCap and the first flight took place in March 2023.
In January 2023, AerCap signed lease agreements for four B777-300ERSF aircraft with Hong Kong-based global air cargo charter company, Fly Meta. The aircraft are scheduled to deliver in 2024 through 2025.
Dozens of orders have been placed already for the aircraft, which is expected to receive certification soon from aviation authorities, said IAI.
Executive vice president and general manager of IAI’s Aviation Group, Shmuel Kuzi, said: “Today is a significant milestone in the ‘Big Twin’ program and our partnership with STK and Incheon International Airport.
“I appreciate our partners’ investment of time and resources in this important project, and I look forward to further developing our strategic cooperation with Korean companies and the South Korean government.”
IAI to produce freighter conversions at Incheon Airport
AerCap signs lease agreements with Fly Meta for four B777-300ERSF aircraft
