AerCap takes delivery of 50th 737-800BCF freighter

Dublin, Ireland-headquartered aircraft lessor AerCap has completed delivery of its 50th 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighter (BCF).

The passenger aircraft’s modification to freighter configuration was completed by San José, Costa Rica-based COOPESA, a provider of maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services with expertise in aircraft conversions.

The aircraft has now been redelivered to Brazilian low-cost carrier GOL Linhas Aéreas, which is to operate the aircraft on behalf of a Latin-American e-commerce company.

Rich Greener, head of cargo at AerCap Cargo, described it as “a milestone delivery”, and said he was grateful of the relationship AerCap has with its partners at Boeing and longstanding customer GOL.

“Since the programme launched in 2016, we have seen unprecedented demand for express air cargo from e-commerce retail businesses,” he advised.

“Today, the 737-800BCF is one of the most in-demand narrowbody freighter aircraft in the industry, thanks to its versatility and reliability, making it the perfect choice for express air cargo and e-commerce networks.”

Kate Schaefer, vice president of Boeing’s Commercial Modifications, Engineering & Specialty Products business, added: “The BCF team has navigated global challenges during the past few years and truly pulled together to deliver this 50th 737-800BCF for AerCap.

“It is a testament to the ongoing commitment to our customers’ success.”

AerCap Cargo was the launch customer of the Boeing 737-800BCF conversion in 2016, taking delivery of its first aircraft of the type in April 2018.

AerCap Cargo has more than 25 years of experience in freighter leasing, including passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversions, having been involved in more than 100 successful conversions.

Its 737-800BCF customers include West Atlantic Group, Amazon Air, GOL, JD.com, Kargo Xpress, ASL and Longhao Airlines.