The upper deck includes four salvaged supernumerary double seats, one salvaged lavatory, one crew galley, one salvaged crew rest area, and a partition at station 740. Aircraft systems are modified to support the new configuration, while unchanged systems are reattached to the new structure. Avionics and electrical systems are modified accordingly, with no software changes in the existing aircraft systems. The conversion provides the capability to transport live animals and perishable goods.
OVERVIEW
IAI Aviation Group / BEDEK is a global leader in passenger-to-freighter conversions of the Boeing 747 family. With more than five decades of experience and over 300 aircraft converted, BEDEK has built a proven track record in widebody freighter conversions, with no Airworthiness Directives (ADs) issued against BEDEK-developed Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs).
BEDEK’s advanced MRO Center provides comprehensive conversion capabilities for the B747-400BDSF, including aircraft converted from both passenger and combi configurations. The B747-400BDSF (BEDEK Special Freighter) delivers strong payload-range performance, fuel efficiency, and compliance with Stage III noise requirements, supporting reliable and economically sustainable freighter operations. Passenger-to-freighter conversion enables operators to extend the service life of aging widebody aircraft while maintaining competitive operating economics.
Certified Expertise
IAI/BEDEK’s STCs are certified by leading civil aviation authorities, including CAAI, FAA, and EASA, and validated by numerous additional regulators worldwide. Supported by the strength of the IAI Corporation, along with IATA Strategic Partnership and ICH membership, BEDEK operates conversion sites worldwide and provides customers with certified, scalable, and operationally proven freighter conversion solutions.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Unlimited slots at IAI and at remote site
- The exlusive provider of B747-400 conversion
- Extensive production capability
- Engineering team with OEM aircraft design capability
- High flexibility in performing maintenance work and avionic upgrades during the conversion time frame
- Variety of loading configurations
- Top quality product with highest possible payload
- 3D design with CATIA V5 and NASTRAN/PATRAN
- Life extension and Aging aircraft programs
- Highly experienced MRO center
- Dedicated, long-term customer support
- Quick response and creative solutions for aircraft
- Tailor made VIP conversions
- Aircraft conversions development tools and processes
Values & Benefits
IAI/BEDEK currently keeps the only active conversion line of B747-400 aircraft in the world, transforming aging passenger aircraft into cost-effective 21st-century cargo platforms that meet global operational demands.
The main-deck floor beams are reinforced to sustain new cargo loads, CLS attach points are provided, and new liners, ceiling panels, and lighting systems are installed. The existing entry doors No.1L & 5L are retained, all other doors are deactivated, and a foldable ladder is installed for access between decks. Panels, light systems, and retained entry doors are updated to meet cargo configuration requirements.
Technical Details
- Weights and Volumes
- MTW 873,000 lbs / 878,000 lbs
- MTOW 870,000 lbs / 875,000 lbs
- MZFW 610,000 lbs / 635,000 lbs
- MLW 652,000 lbs max.
- Operating Empty Weight* 357,000 lbs max.
- Main Deck (Useable Volume) 20,820 ft3
- Lower Decks 5,365 ft3
