… and it is Bridges Air Cargo (part of Bridges Worldwide) via its lessor, Regional One, as was announced on 18JUN25. The airline won’t have long to wait, as the first of a total of two passenger-to-freight (P2F) conversions that it plans to operate, will likely begin flying in the third quarter of this year – ergo, a few months’ time. The E-Freighter E190F conversion that CargoForwarder Global reported on in October last year is a response to the rapid rise of e-commerce in recent years. It fills a niche in the market, combining ideal size and range for routes that are more decentral, to smaller, lesser-served destinations. And, of course, it allows for more efficient, sustainable operations, offering “over 40% more volume capacity, three times the range of large cargo turboprops, and up to 30% lower operating costs than larger narrowbodies,” the release states. Each aircraft can take a maximum structural payload of 13,500 kg. As Bridges Air Cargo is primarily concerned with international logistics for the courier and express community, working with companies such as FedEx, DHL, and UPS, it perfectly matches the ideal customer profile for this new aircraft type.
Guy Bridges, Managing Director of Bridges Air Cargo, announced: “It’s fitting that Bridges becomes the launch customer for the E-Freighter as we celebrate 35 years of operations and over a billion kilograms moved for the express market. The aircraft’s size fills a unique and under-served space in the cargo segment. It strengthens our operational capability and paves the way for the development of promising new routes. We are excited to partner with Embraer and Regional One on what we see as a pivotal advancement for regional air cargo.”
Hank Gibson, President of Regional One, said: “As the first E190 P2F conversion, this milestone underscores Regional One’s dedication to innovation in the regional aviation market. Together with Embraer and our valued partners, we are setting a new benchmark for regional cargo transport – transforming one of the world’s most efficient regional jets into the next-generation freighter. Today, we’re delighted to welcome Bridges Air Cargo as our newest partner in this transformative journey, reinforcing our shared vision for the future of regional logistics.”
Arjan Meijer, President and CEO Embraer Commercial Aviation, stated: “We are excited to announce Bridges Air Cargo as the launch customer for the E190F so soon after achieving triple certification for the aircraft with FAA, EASA and ANAC. We look forward to supporting a smooth entry into service for the first E-Freighter, and wish Bridges every success.”
