M&B Conversions and Israel Aerospace Industries Bedek Aviation Group (IAI- Bedek) delivered the first converted B767-300 aircraft yesterday (January 27, 2010) after completing its conversion from passenger to Bedek Special Freighter (BDSF) aircraft. The prototype was converted for euroAtlantic airways, Portugal – a passenger carrier airline with expertise in ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance and Insurance) lease. The converted aircraft will expand euroAtlantic's activities into the field of freighter aircraft.
The B767-300BDSF conversion program was developed by Bedek for M&B Conversions of Dublin, Ireland, a joint venture company of Mitsui & Co. of Japan, and IAI/Bedek.
At the delivery ceremony, Eli Hattem, general manager of IAI's Bedek Aviation Group, said: "Bedek is internationally recognized for its conversions. We convert passenger aircraft to freighter aircraft, and our products include the B737-300, B737-400, B747-400, and B767-200. The B767-300, which we are delivering today, will now join this distinguished list. Bedek provides high quality service and products at competitive prices."
Mr. Euclides Batalha, Vice President and Board Member of EuroAtlantic said: "Thanks to M&B and IAI's commitment to excellence, euroAtlantic is entering a new business domain in flying cargo and we look forward to providing our customers with great service to their complete satisfaction."
Supplemental Type Certificates (STC) were obtained from the Civil Aviation Administration of Israel (CAAI), the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). Bedek's Special Freighter meets all regulations and exceeds even the most demanding standards of quality. The aircraft are economical to operate and assure the highest value in the freighter market.
An additional B767-300 aircraft is currently in the final stages of conversion at IAI's facilities in Tel Aviv.
Israel Aerospace Industries’ Bedek Aviation Group is a leading supplier of aviation maintenance, repair, overhaul and conversion services on a variety of commercial and military aircraft, engines and components. Bedek provides cost-effective, total maintenance support packages through its Full Service Provider Programs. With more than 20 years of experience, IAI/Bedek's passenger to freighter conversion product line includes also: B737-300, B737-400, B767-200, and B747-400 aircraft.
In the photos:
• Mr. Euclides Batalha, Vice President and Board Member of EuroAtlantic at the redelivery ceremony
• Mr. Euclides Batalha (left) and Mr. Eli Hattem, general manager of IAI's Bedek Aviation Group in the converted aircraft
For further information, please contact:
Doron Suslik
Deputy Corporate VP for Communications
Tel: 03-935-8509
Fax: 03-935-8512
Email: hpaz@iai.co.il