Next-generation 737 Boeing Converted Freighter launched

Shanghai – Boeing has launched the Next-Generation 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF) with orders and commitments for up to 55 conversions from seven customers.

 

Stan Deal, senior vice president, Commercial Aviation Services, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, says, “While the recovery of the global cargo market has been slow, we see demand for freighters, such as the 737-800BCF, that will carry express cargo on domestic routes.” 

 

Over the next 20 years, Boeing forecasts customers will need more than 1,000 converted freighters the size of the 737, with China's domestic air freight carriers accounting for nearly one-third of the total market.

 

Through its freighter conversion program, Boeing transitions passenger airplanes into freighters, extending the economic life of the airplane. The 737-800 is the first Next-Generation 737 that Boeing has offered for conversion. While large freighters carry high-density cargo on long-range routes, the 737-800BCF will primarily be used to carry express cargo on domestic routes.

 

The 737-800BCF carries up to 52,800 lb (23.9 metric tons) of cargo, flying routes of nearly 2,000nm (3,690km).

 

Twelve pallet positions – 11 standard pallets and one half-pallet – provide 5,000ft3 (141.5m3) of cargo space on the main deck. This will be supplemented by two lower-lobe compartments, combined providing more than 1,540ft3 (43.7m3) of space for revenue-generating cargo.

 

Boeing has won a total of 30 firm orders and 25 commitments for the 737-800BCF:

 

The first 737-800BCF is expected to be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2017.

 

Existing passenger airplanes will be modified at select facilities located near conversion demand, including Boeing Shanghai. Modifications include installing a large main-deck cargo door, a cargo-handling system, and accommodations for up to four non-flying crew members or passengers.