AerCap becomes Launch Customer for New Airbus A320/A321 Freighter

Netherland based leasing company AerCap has signed a firm contract with Airbus Freighter Conversion GmbH (AFC) to convert 30 of AerCap’s passenger A320/A321s into freighter aircraft (P2F).

“The A320 and A321P2Fs are setting new standards in the feeder freighter market,” said Klaus Heinemann, Chief Executive Officer of AerCap. “This order will strengthen and expand our portfolio with the most and only modern aircraft in the small freighter segment.”

“We are very proud that AerCap, as a leading global aviation company, is the launch customer for this all new freighter aircraft,” added Lars Becker, CEO of AFC. “We anticipate about 400 Airbus Single Aisle aircraft to be converted from 2012 to 2026. The first A320 P2F will be ready in 2011. After ramp up, we plan to convert around 30 A320 family aircraft per year.”

Belonging to the A320 Family, the A320/A321 Passenger To Freighter (P2F) converted aircraft offers a payload which varies from 21 to 28 metric tonnes. The aircraft’s range will be up to 2,100nm/3,700 km. Based on its initial design and wider fuselage section, it is possible to carry bulk or containerized freight in the belly holds, which is a unique feature in this market segment, delivering more loading flexibility.

In addition, the A320/A321P2F will be one of the most environmental friendly freighter aircraft. The first conversion will be ready in 2011, start of serial production will be in early 2012. By 2016 the annual production is expected to reach 37 aircraft..

“The state-of-the-art A320/A321P2F address the future growth of the air cargo market and target at the replacement of the ageing small freighters in service today,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Executive Vice President Strategy and Future Programmes. “These modern fly-by-wire aircraft will bring new levels of efficiency to freight operations. In addition, this new application will further extend the service-life of the successful A320 Family far into the 21st century and boost their residual value. We see a substantial market demand.”

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