Precision Conversions to commence 757-200 combi conversion program

Precision Conversions has followed Pemco World Air Services' lead in launching a passenger-to-combi conversion programme for the Boeing 757, after securing an order from Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) subsidiary Cargo Aircraft Management.

Ohio-based ATSG will use its three 757-200 Precision Conversions Combi (PCC) aircraft to replace McDonnell Douglas DC-8 combis. These are operated by subsidiary Air Transport International on charters, primarily for the US military.

Oregon-based Precision has converted 27 757 passenger aircraft into freighters since certificating its 757-200PCF in 2005. It will take the company about 12 months to certificate the 757-200PCC, sales and marketing vice-president Brian McCarthy said at the Cargo Facts Aircraft Symposium in Miami.

The first 757-200PCC is to be re-delivered to ATSG in late 2012. It will accommodate 10 full-size pallets and seat up to 58 passengers.

Earlier this year, Alabama-based Pemco became the first conversion house to embark on a 757 passenger-to-combi programme, with National Air Cargo as launch customer. The Michigan-based operator is due to receive four of the aircraft in the fist half of next year. The Pemco product accommodates 10 pallet positions and 46 passengers in premium economy seating.

(Brendan Sobie - FlightGlobal/International News)