Israel Aerospace Industries said it has completed the world's first conversion of a Boeing 777-300ER from passenger to freighter, marking a milestone in aviation and earning Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval from both the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel (CAAI).
The company, a global player in passenger-to-freighter conversions, said the project followed more than a year of development and testing.
As one of the world's largest cargo aircraft, the newly certified B777-300ERSF will significantly increase global shipping capacity, speed and efficiency.
Israel Aerospace Industries noted that this is a significant breakthrough in aviation and IAI is the first company in the world to convert an aircraft of this magnitude.
"The Boeing 777 is poised to redefine the future of air freight with an impressive capacity of 100 tons and the ability to significantly reduce operating costs," the announcement said.
It added that this innovation positions the aircraft as a game-changer in the evolving global freighter market.
AerCap is the launch customer of the B777-300ERSF conversion program, while Kalitta will serve as the launch operator.
Boaz Levy, president and CEO of Israel Aerospace Industries, noted that, "IAI is a global leader in passenger-to freighter aircraft conversions, standing at the forefront of aeronautical technology and building on its extensive capabilities as Israel's largest aerospace company."
"The company takes great pride in being the first in the world to convert a Boeing 777 into a freighter," he added.
"Receiving certification from aviation authorities highlights IAI's technological, engineering and operational expertise and positions the company as a pioneer in this field. This remarkable capability is the result of the company's professionalism and determination, paving the way for a broad expansion of our business activities with leading customers worldwide, and strengthening global e-commerce through advanced freighter aircraft solutions."
Yaacov Berkovitz, executive VP and general manager of IAI’s Aviation Group, noted that after years of dedicated effort, especially during the past year, we are excited to receive the STC certificate for the P2F conversion of Boeing 777 aircraft from both the FAA and CAAI — a breakthrough that reflects our commitment to innovation, engineering excellence and global leadership in aircraft conversions.
"This milestone sets a new standard in air cargo, delivering a unique combination of high payload capacity, volume and operational efficiency," he added.
"The Boeing 777 was developed to meet the evolving needs of the cargo industry, and we believe it will become the preferred choice for international operators. I want to thank the aviation authorities and our team at IAI for their unwavering tenacity in bringing this transformative product to market."
IAI has long been active in passenger-to-freighter aircraft conversions, working with companies like Amazon, Gulfstream, and DHL. As global demand for freighter aircraft continues to rise, the company is adding more conversion sites for the Boeing 777 to support that growth.
For over 45 years, IAI has been a pioneer in the field of passenger-to-freighter conversions, delivering comprehensive solutions across all segments of the global aviation market.
The company has long specialized in aircraft conversions, working across a range of models and operations. Its services include passenger-to-cargo conversions, MRO work, business jet modifications, aerostructure production, and aircraft upgrades.
IAI, founded in 1953, is a major player in Israel’s aerospace and defense sector. The company develops technologies for military and commercial use across space, air, land, naval, and cyber domains. Its work includes satellites, UAVs, missiles, radars, air defense systems, and aircraft components.
IAI also provides services such as intelligence systems, business jet customization, and aerostructure manufacturing, with operations and R&D centers in Israel and internationally.