EFW Delivers First A330P2F Aircraft to ATSG

EFW Delivers First A330P2F Aircraft to ATSG

Elbe Flugzeugwerke GmbH (EFW), Airbus’s centre of excellence for passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversions, has delivered its first A330P2F aircraft to Air Transport Services Group (ATSG), marking a pivotal milestone in the strategic expansion of both companies. This delivery inaugurates a broader agreement under which EFW will convert and redeliver a total of 30 Airbus A330P2F freighters to ATSG, a leading global aircraft lessor. The acquisition reflects ATSG’s strategic intent to diversify its fleet of 149 aircraft with next-generation wide-body freighters, positioning the company to address the growing global demand for air cargo capacity.

The initial A330P2F, converted at EFW’s Dresden facility, is scheduled to be operated by Turkish cargo carrier ULS Airlines Cargo following its transfer from ATSG. EFW’s conversion programme is supported by multiple sites, including Turkish Technic in Istanbul and partner facilities in China, thereby enhancing global conversion capacity and operational flexibility. Industry analysts observe that EFW’s progress comes amid intensifying competition in the freighter conversion market, with other providers expected to accelerate similar projects to capture expanding market share. Early feedback on the A330P2F has been favourable, with customers and experts highlighting the aircraft’s operational efficiency and the programme’s potential to transform air cargo logistics.

Todd France, Chief Commercial Officer of ATSG, underscored the importance of the delivery, stating, “The delivery of our first A330 passenger-to-freighter conversion marks a defining moment in our journey to reshape the future of global air cargo. As the first of 30 conversions, this aircraft represents our commitment to innovation and competitiveness in growing e-commerce markets around the globe. We do not want to just meet demand for capacity – we want to ensure we remain a leading lessor of freighter aircraft.”

A330P2F Variants and Operational Advantages

The A330P2F programme offers two principal variants: the A330-200P2F and the A330-300P2F. The A330-200P2F is capable of transporting up to 60 tons of cargo over distances exceeding 7,700 kilometres, while the A330-300P2F provides a slightly higher payload capacity of 62 tons and a containerised volume of approximately 526 cubic metres. Both variants incorporate advanced technologies designed to deliver significant operational benefits, including improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to older freighter models.

Through the introduction of the A330P2F series, EFW and ATSG are expanding their operational capabilities while setting new benchmarks in fleet flexibility and sustainability. These conversions extend the service life of Airbus passenger aircraft, offering a cost-effective and environmentally responsible solution to meet the evolving demands of the global air cargo industry. As competitors respond with their own conversion initiatives, the freighter conversion market is poised for continued innovation and growth.