Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer will launch E190 and E195 passenger to freighter (P2F) conversions, as it aims to meet the growth of e-commerce and air cargo demand.  

The initiative comes as Embraer sees a gap in the air freight market between turboprop and larger narrowbody cargo aircraft. Thus, the company believes that P2F E-Jets conversions could “hit the market as the demand for air freight continues to takeoff”.  

“The E-Jet freighters are designed to meet the changing demands of e-commerce and modern trade that require fast deliveries and decentralized operations,” Embraer announced in a statement dated March 7, 2022.  

The full freighter conversion for all pre-owned E190 and E195 jets is expected to be completed in early 2024. Both E190 and E195 freighter conversions will take place at Embraer’s facilities in Brazil.  

“Embraer sees a market for this size of airplane of approximately 700 aircraft over 20 years,” the manufacturer said, adding that the full cargo conversion would extend the life of the aged E-Jets by 10 to 15 years.  

“With more than 1,600 E-Jets delivered globally, customers of this new freighter segment will benefit from well established, mature, global services network, in addition to a comprehensive portfolio of products ready to support their operation from day one,” said Johann Bordais, President and CEO at Embraer Services and Support. 

According to Embraer, E190 and E195 passenger to freighter converted jets will have over 50% more volume capacity than large cargo turboprops, and up to 30% lower operating costs than narrow-body aircraft.