USC named as launch customer for Avensis A340 P2F conversion

Avensis Aviation (Avensis), a provider of aircraft passenger-to-freighter (PTF) conversions, has announced USC GmbH (USC) as the launch customer for its NAVIS PTF Class E main deck cargo door conversion, to be installed in its two aircraft.

USC is a new airline based in Germany, which will enter service early this summer with an Airbus A340-300 and an A340-600. The aircraft will initially be used in a wet-lease (passenger ACMI) service, being modified at the earliest opportunity to Avensis’ full size cargo door.

The NAVIS PTF conversion introduces what Avensis claims to be the industry’s first ‘plug-type’ main deck cargo door (MDCD) and features a separated crew cabin section, a 9G rigid cargo barrier, a full Class E cargo compartment, and a main deck cargo loading system (CLS). Avensis says the design enables reduced conversion downtime, while enabling flexible, fast and cost-effective operational performance.

Cristian Sutter, CEO of Avensis Aviation, said of the deal: “NAVIS is our flagship PTF conversion and it is aimed at lessors and established cargo airlines that demand a permanent, innovative and cost-effective PTF solution. The innovative “plug type” main deck cargo door is fully electrically operated, lightweight, and safer due to its locking mechanism design”.

“We are thrilled to announce USC as the launch customer for our NAVIS PTF conversion. The Airbus A340 provides a competitive aircraft freighter platform for the express market by offering payload, volume and performance advantages, particularly for ultra-long-haul routes such as Asia and other far-flown cargo hubs.”

The aircraft will first be converted to a Class E freighter using its MEDIUS PTF solution (reversible Class E without door), an interim option by Avensis that will enable USC to take advantage of operating cargo revenue flights whist the elements of the NAVIS conversion are produced.