IAI 777-300ERSF Freighter Conversion Certified

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Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has secured a key milestone for its Boeing 777-300ERSF freighter conversion program, receiving supplemental type certification from both the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel. The approval clears the way for launch customer AerCap to place the aircraft into service, with Kalitta Air set to be the first operator.

Kalitta will deploy the converted widebody freighter from its main hub at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport. The Michigan-based cargo airline, which already flies a fleet of Boeing 747-400s and 777Fs, sees the addition of the 777-300ERSF as a boost to its long-haul freight capabilities.

The 777-300ERSF (Extended Range Special Freighter)

The 777-300ERSF (Extended Range Special Freighter) is a passenger-to-freighter conversion of the Boeing 777-300ER developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in partnership with GECAS. It’s designed to offer high-volume, long-range cargo capability with lower operating costs than traditional freighters like the 747-400F.

The 777-300ERSF program, branded as “Big Twin,” began in 2019 under a partnership between IAI and GECAS, which later merged with AerCap. While the project faced pandemic-related delays and was originally expected to debut in 2022, the certification now makes it the first passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversion for the 777-300ER. This makes it one of the highest-volume twin-engine freighters ever built—ideal for e-commerce, express, and general cargo.

  • Maximum Structural Payload: 222,000 lbs (100,698 kg)
  • Total Cargo Volume: 28,936 cubic feet
  • Estimated Range: 4,500–4,700 nautical miles (8,334–8,704 km) at max payload
  • Maximum Fuel Capacity: 320,863 lbs

IAI highlighted that the aircraft underwent rigorous testing to ensure it met global safety and performance standards. The converted jet offers a payload capacity of 100 tons, positioning it as a highly efficient option for airlines seeking both volume and range.

Industry analysts expect strong demand for the type as carriers modernize fleets and adapt to growing global cargo traffic. With fuel efficiency and high-capacity capabilities, the 777-300ERSF is set to become a competitive player in international freight markets.

Related News: https://airguide.info/?s=Israel+Aerospace+Industries, https://airguide.info/?s=777-300

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, aviationa2z.com

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