Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) will open a passenger-to-freight conversion line in South Korea in collaboration with local MRO firm Sharp Technics K to roll out Boeing 777-ERSF aircraft.
Signed April 17, the agreement will see IAI and Sharp Technics K establish a conversion line at Seoul’s Incheon International Airport from 2024. Launched in 2019, IAI’s 777-ERSF program uses 777-300ER passenger airliners as feedstock and has dubbed the converted aircraft the “Big Twin,” claiming it is the largest-ever twin-engined freighter.
Sharp Technics K currently provides line maintenance, A and C checks, as well as cargo unit load device (ULD) repair services at its Incheon facility. The hangar has space for two 737s or a single widebody such as the 777 or 747-400/8. The MRO’s customers include Atlas Air, Jeju Air and T’way Air.
IAI has already entered similar agreements with Etihad Engineering to set up a 777-ERSF conversion line at Abu Dhabi.
The first 777-ERSF made its initial test flight on March 26, a little under two years since conversion works commenced on Aug. 10, 2021.
“Today’s signing of the agreement with Sharp and Incheon International Airport represents a direct continuation of the many collaboration agreements already existing between IAI and South Korean companies, and underscores the confidence that the company has in South Korea’s ability to set up a conversion facility within the required timetable,” said Shmuel Kuzi, EVP and general manager of IAI’s Aviation Group.
Related Content
