Embraer, a Brazilian aircraft manufacturer, has achieved a milestone in the aviation industry by delivering its first converted Embraer E190-E1 freighter aircraft to Regional One, a U.S. leasing company. This delivery represents a significant advancement in Embraer’s diversification of operations, as it now enters the cargo aircraft market with its passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion program.
Details of the Conversion
The conversion of the E190-E1 from a passenger aircraft to a freighter involved several structural modifications. These included reinforcing the main deck floor, installing a 9G rigid cargo barrier, implementing a cargo loading system compatible with industry-standard pallets and containers, and incorporating a new side cargo door. These adaptations enable the freighter aircraft to carry just over 10.7 tons of cargo, positioning it as an efficient and economical solution to meet the growing demand for air cargo transportation.
When converted to freighters, E-Jets will have a volume capacity that is more than 50% higher, a range that is three times that of large cargo turboprops, and operating costs that are up to 30% lower than those of narrowbodies. The maximal structural payload for the E190F is 13,500 kg, and for the E195F is 14,300 kg when the capacity under the floor and main deck is combined.
The E190F and E195F Passenger to Freight Conversions (P2F) program, which was initiated in 2022 involves a global network of over 40 suppliers and over 600 employees.
Market Growth and Demand
The rise of e-commerce and the need for increased cargo capacity in secondary markets drive the launch of the converted E190-E1 in line with a growing trend. Embraer emphasized that their new freighter will bridge the gap between larger narrowbody aircraft and smaller turboprops, offering a perfect choice for operations that don’t fully utilize larger aircraft.
Future Outlook
Embraer has already begun converting their next E190 and plans to apply the same process to E195 aircraft in the near future. The company views this new line of cargo aircraft as an opportunity to accelerate business and offer innovative solutions to its customers, adapting to the dynamic needs of the global air cargo market.
