EFW Receives FAA Certification for A321 P2F Conversion
Elbe Flugzeugwerke GmbH (EFW) is pleased to announce the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued a VSTC (ST04493NY) for worlds first A321 freighter conversion. The VSTC validates the original EASA Supplemental Type Certificate (10071994) which was awarded to EFW in the first Quarter of 2020.
The A321P2F is the first in its size category to offer containerized loading in both the main deck with 14 full container positions and lower deck with 10 container positions. With a generous payload-range capability that can carry above 27 metric tons (roughly 60,000 lbs) over 2,300 nautical miles, the A321P2F is the best narrowbody freighter aircraft for express domestic and regional operations.
The conversion incorporates an extra-large Main Cargo Door which is hydraulically actuated and electrically locked. Additionally, the A321 includes a replaced and reinforced floor grid, new freighter floor panels, main deck cargo linings and ceilings. The redefined flight deck includes the cockpit, supernumerary seats and a new lavatory. The Cargo compartment is a class E one and equipped with a full rigid 9g barrier with a sliding door.
The A321P2F program is a collaboration between ST Engineering, Airbus and EFW and the only OEM solution on the market. EFW leading the overall program as well as marketing & sales is facing a vivid interest in the product and has secured several firm orders and commitments for the A321P2F conversions. The capacity for conversions will be ramped up to 23 slots per year. To meet the market demand, further modification sites are planned for China and the U.S. as well as in Dresden/Germany by 2023.
About EFW
Elbe Flugzeugwerke GmbH (EFW) combines various aviation and technology activities under a single roof: development and manufacturing of fibre-reinforced composite components for aircraft structures and interiors of the entire Airbus family, the conversion of passenger aircraft into freighter configuration, maintenance and repair of Airbus aircraft as well as engineering services in the context of certification and approval. The company has a workforce of about 1,600 employees and in 2018 achieved revenues of just under €300 million. For more information about EFW, please visit www.efw.aero.
