Embraer has entered the air freight market with the launch of E190F and E195F passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversions.

The E-Jets freighters are positioned to enable fast deliveries and decentralised operations that “meet the changing demands of e-commerce and modern trade”, according to Embraer.

“Perfectly positioned to fill the gap in the freighter market between turboprops and larger narrowbody jets, our P2F E-Jet conversion hits the market as the demand for air freight continues to take off, and as e-commerce and trade, in general, undergoes a global structural transformation,” said Embraer Commercial Aviation’s president and CEO Arjan Meijer.

The full freighter conversion is available for all pre-owned E190 and E195 aircraft, with entry into service expected in early 2024. Embraer sees a market for this size of airplane of approximately 700 aircraft over 20 years.

Embraer added that the E-Jet freighters would have over 50 per cent more volume capacity, three times the range of large cargo turboprops, and up to 30 per cent lower operating costs than narrowbodies.

“The E-Jet air freighters will provide fast, reliable, and cost-effective service to freight forwarders, extend the revenue earning life of E-Jets, support E-Jets’ asset values and create a strong business case encouraging the replacement of earlier aircraft with modern, more efficient, passenger aircraft,” said Embraer Services and Support’s president and CEO Johann Bordais. “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.”

The conversion to freighter will be performed at Embraer’s facilities in Brazil and includes main deck front cargo door; cargo handling system; floor reinforcement; rigid cargo barrier (RCB) – 9G barrier with access door; cargo smoke detection system, including class ‘E’ extinguishers in upper cargo compartment; air management system changes (cooling, pressurisation, etc); interior removal and provisions for hazardous material transportation. The E190F can handle a payload of 23,600lb (10,700kg) while the E195F a payload of 27,100 lb (12,300 kg).