Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has successfully completed the first flight of its converted Airbus A330-300 P2F (passenger-to-freighter) aircraft, a key step in the certification process for its new A330-300BDSF (Bedek Special Freighter) program. This maiden flight, during which the aircraft’s performance and systems were assessed across various operating conditions, signifies the completion of major structural modifications and thorough ground testing, conducted by IAI’s Aviation Group.
The A330-300BDSF is designed to serve regional and medium-haul freight routes and offers room for up to 30 ULDs and up to 61 tons in payload capacity. Notable design features include an electric cargo loading system and a streamlined cargo flow layout. Its main deck cargo door, positioned toward the front of the aircraft, allows for quicker loading and unloading, helping cut turnaround times and boost operational efficiency.
IAI has been in the business of narrowbody and widebody passenger-to-cargo conversions for almost half a century and offers an increasing conversion portfolio. It was the first company to earn an STC for the 777-300ER conversion and continues work on the 777-300ERSF, 767-200/300, and 737-700/800 platforms. With the A330-300BDSF, the aircraft modifier cements its status as one of the few companies capable of performing sophisticated freighter conversions on both Airbus and Boeing widebody jets. It is also expanding its global network of conversion facilities, to meet rising demand from airlines, lessors, and cargo carriers.
Guy Bar Lev, IAI President and CEO, commented: “This milestone reflects IAI’s continued investment in advanced aviation technologies and industrial and engineering capabilities, while strengthening our position in the global air cargo market. The A330-300BDSF program further expands our broad conversion portfolio and reinforces IAI’s ability to provide long-term, flexible and reliable solutions to customers worldwide.”
Yaacov Berkovitz, EVP and GM of IAI’s Aviation Group, said: “The successful completion of the first flight marks another important step in expanding IAI’s widebody conversion capabilities and advancing the A330-300BDSF program toward certification and commercial service. Leveraging decades of engineering expertise and operational experience, we are delivering a highly capable and competitive solution designed to address the evolving needs of the global cargo market. IAI approach is designed around the customer’s requirement for quick entry into service, supporting accelerated operational readiness and earlier revenue realization.”
