Aeroflot-Cargo converting two MD-11 Passenger Airplanes into Freighters

Boeing is helping Aeroflot-Cargo improve its operational efficiency and adapt to growing cargo market demands by converting two MD-11 passenger airplanes into freighters and updating their flight deck features and cargo-handling system so that they are consistent across Aeroflot-Cargo's fleet.

"These aircraft represent a very substantial investment. By putting them in the hands of the original manufacturer for conversion, we can extend the life of the aircraft and maximize their capabilities," said Aeroflot-Cargo General Director Andrey Goryashko. "The Boeing Converted Freighter program gives us the confidence and support that we expect with a new airplane while allowing us to make the most of the fleet we already have."

A converted MD-11 has a capacity of 205,400-pounds (93.2 tones) structural payload at a range of 3,486 nautical miles (6,456 kilometers) and is capable of 630,500-pounds (286,000 kg) maximum takeoff weight. The main and lower deck cargo compartments hold a total of 36 96-by-125-inch pallets or containers.

Aeroflot-Cargo currently operates four DC-10 Freighters. In addition to these two MD-11s, Aeroflot-Cargo has committed to lease three more MD-11 Boeing Converted Freighters from the Boeing Capital Corporation within the 2007-2008 timeframe.

Modification work will begin in November 2008. Boeing Commercial Aviation Services will provide detailed engineering design work and oversight of the Aeroflot-Cargo conversions, with SASCO, a subsidiary of Singapore Technologies Aerospace, providing touch labor on the airplanes.

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