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Etihad Engineering has signed a strategic partnership with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), to provide Passenger to Freighter (P2F) conversions on Boeing 777-300ERs. In 2019, IAI and GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS) announced the launch of the Boeing 777-300ERSF, a programme which established a P2F conversion dubbed The Big Twin denoting its status as the largest ever twin-engine freighter. While the COVID-19 pandemic has taken its toll on the aviation sector, cargo operations are offsetting operators losses, as it continues to play a critical role in facilitating international trade. As a result, industry forecasts show an increase in demand for wide-body freighter aircraft with long-haul capacity.

Etihad Engineering will capitalise on its expertise and extensive capabilities for the specialised Boeing 777-300ERSF conversion. In the initial stage of the partnership, Etihad Engineering will facilitate towards two conversion lines accommodating multiple aircraft conversions per year.

Tony Douglas, group chief executive officer, Etihad Aviation Group, said: The Boeing 777-300ERSF is not only extremely attractive to customers but a technological breakthrough, given that its the first in its size category to offer extensive cargo solutions. Not only do we see the demand, but we view it as a greener, more profitable, highly innovative solution for our airline customers, and an excellent way to drive value for our business.

Abdul Khaliq Saeed, CEO, Etihad Engineering, said, We are delighted to announce our partnership with IAI which maximises the potential of our highly skilled workforce and reinforces Etihad Engineerings position as a centre of excellence in Abu Dhabi in line with Abu Dhabis economic vision 2030. Our commitment to the P2F programme demonstrates our confidence in the ability of IAI to deliver long-term value enhancement of the B777-300ERs in the global fleet.

Boaz Levy, president and CEO, Israel Aerospace Industries, said The Abraham Accords have given IAI the opportunity to expand its global activity to the Gulf region. IAI is active in over 100 countries across the world. Establishing the conversion site in partnership with Etihad Engineering is a testament to IAIs strong ties with the UAE and strengthens its foothold in the region. I am confident that this agreement will lead to many more partnerships with local companies in the Gulf States, which will grow our business in the region.

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IAI adds to conversion deals with Etihad Engineering pact - Asian Aviation