Aerospace

Embraer Signs a Firm Contract for up to 10 Passenger to Freight Conversions

First firm contract for Embraer’s P2F comes after an agreement announced in May with Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC) for up to 10 conversion slots for E190F/E195F;
Deliveries to start in 2024;
E-Jets Freighters offer over 50% more volume capacity, three times the range of large cargo turboprops, and up to 30% lower operating costs than narrowbodies;

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São José dos Campos, Brazil, June 24, 2022 – Embraer [B3: EMBR3, NYSE: ERJ] has signed a firm order for up to 10 Embraer E-Jets Passenger to Freight (P2F) conversions with an undisclosed customer. Aircraft for conversion will come from the customer’s current E-Jets fleet, with deliveries starting in 2024. This is the first firm contract for Embraer’s P2F, being the second agreement for this kind of operation. In May, Embraer and Nordic Aviation Capital (NAC) announced an agreement in principle to take up to 10 conversion slots for E190F/E195F.

Embraer’s E-Jets P2F conversions deliver segment-leading performance and economics. The E-Jets Freighters will have over 50% more volume capacity, three times the range of large cargo turboprops, and up to 30% lower operating costs than narrowbodies.

With more than 1,600 E-Jets delivered by Embraer globally, P2F customers benefit from a well-established, mature, global services network, in addition to a comprehensive portfolio of products ready to support their operations from day one.

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The conversion to freighter will be performed at Embraer’s facilities in Brazil and includes main deck front cargo door; cargo handling system; floor reinforcement; Rigid Cargo Barrier (RCB) – 9G Barrier with access door; cargo smoke detection system (class E main deck cargo compartment), Air Management System changes (cooling, pressurization, etc.); interior removal and provisions for hazardous material transportation.

Combining under-floor bulk cargo and main deck, the maximum gross structural payload is 13,150kg for the E190F and 14,300kg for the E195F. Considering typical e-commerce cargo density, the net weights and volumes are also impressive:the E190F can handle a payload of 23,600lb (10,700kg) while the E195F a payload of 27,100 lb (12,300 kg).

Aerospace

EASA Ends Suspension on PIA, Approves Flights to Europe

Pakistan's National Airline Set for Privatization as Elections Loom

The suspension of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) from operating in Europe is finally over, marking a significant turning point for Pakistan’s aviation sector.

After years of scrutiny and stringent safety assessments, the European Commission and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have officially lifted the ban on PIA. This decision also grants Airblue authorization to operate flights to Europe, further enhancing Pakistan’s connectivity with the region.

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PIA’s suspension, initially imposed in June 2020, was a direct consequence of concerns regarding the oversight capabilities of Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). These concerns were triggered shortly after a tragic PIA plane crash that claimed 97 lives, prompting an investigation into the validity of pilot licenses issued in the country.

Now, after four years of continuous efforts and reforms by the PCAA, EASA has expressed renewed confidence in Pakistan’s aviation regulatory framework. In a statement, EASA highlighted that Pakistan has successfully addressed safety compliance issues, enabling PIA to resume its operations within the European Union.

A spokesperson for PIA expressed optimism, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to strictly adhere to EASA’s regulations and guidelines. “This milestone has been achieved after four years of relentless efforts by the PIA management,” the spokesperson said.

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The lifting of the ban is expected to have a profound impact on PIA’s future. The airline, which employs over 7,000 people, has faced criticism in the past for poor management, financial instability, and regulatory challenges.

However, the restoration of European operations is seen as a vital step toward regaining its competitive edge, improving its financial standing, and restoring its reputation on the global stage.

Pakistan’s government, which has been exploring options to privatize the debt-laden national carrier, is hopeful that this development will attract foreign investment and bolster the country’s aviation industry.

With a renewed focus on compliance and safety, PIA is now poised to rebuild its presence in Europe, offering Pakistani travelers and international passengers more connectivity and improved service.