Embraer to set up P2F conversions in China

by Payload Asia

Lanzhou Aviation Industry Development Group has become the launch customer for E-Jets P2F conversion in China after it signed a letter of agreement (LoA) with Embraer for 20 E190F and E195F converted freighters at the Paris Air Show last week.

Embraer and Lanzhou Group plan to establish E190F and E195F conversion capability in the Chinese city of Lanzhou, which is expected to accelerate the introduction of the narrowbody E-Jet freighters in China.

Lanzhou will serve as the base in China for Embraer’s P2F conversions. The cooperation will be a starting point for both companies to leverage strengths, jointly promote the development of Lanzhou’s air transportation industry, and boost the economy around the airport.

The Brazilian aircraft manufacturer is confident about the booming demand for cargo aircraft in China, given the tremendous growth of e-commerce and the consequent evolution of the logistics industry. Converted to their freighter versions, the E190 can handle a payload of 23,600 pounds (10,700 kilos) whilst the E195F a payload of 27,100 pounds (12,300 kilos).

“The opportunity in China had a significant influence during the decision-making process of the launch of our P2F program. We’re confident in this booming market and always willing to support the sector’s further progress in cooperation with our Chinese partners,” said Arjan Meijer, President and CEO Embraer Commercial Aviation.

“By cooperating with industry-leading aircraft manufacturer Embraer and introducing E-Jets freighters to China, we’ll fully leverage our domestic strength and competitive advantages to boost China’s air cargo market growth. We expect that the project, after it comes to fruition, will also help achieve high-quality economic development in Lanzhou, Gansu, and western regions of China,” said Chen Zhiqiang, President of Lanzhou Aviation Industry Development Group.

Embraer launched the E190F and E195F P2F conversions program in March 2022, and it forecasts a market demand for 700 E-Jet freighters over the next 20 years, with China accounting for 34 percent of the global total.

There are currently 85 E-Jets flying in China, including those from Tianjin Airlines, Hebei Airlines, Beibu Gulf Airlines, and Colorful Guizhou Airlines. Embraer has also established a comprehensive after-sales service and support system in China, including authorised maintenance centers, spare parts warehouses, and complete pilot training network.