FedEx is doing something pretty cool in the world of cargo planes. It’s about to be the first company in the world to use a specific kind of passenger plane that’s been turned into a package-hauler.
Let’s break it down.
What’s Happening?
- FedEx has signed a deal to buy a converted ATR 72-600, a plane that used to carry passengers and is now being redesigned to carry packages instead.
- This is the first time this particular model (ATR 72-600) is being converted into a freighter.
Who’s Doing the Work?
- A company from Dublin called ACIA Aero Leasing owns the plane and is managing the whole conversion project.
- The actual plane makeover is happening at Empire Aerospace, a repair and maintenance company that knows these aircraft inside and out.
- Empire Aerospace is part of Empire Airlines, which already flies cargo for FedEx in the U.S.
When Will It Be Ready?
- The plane should be ready by December 2025.
- If everything goes smoothly, it could start flying FedEx packages by the end of this year or early 2026.
What Does the Conversion Involve?
Transforming a passenger aircraft into a freighter goes far beyond removing the seats. It’s a big job:
- The plane’s door and outer skin are carefully removed by specialists.
- They rebuild the door frame and add a huge cargo door for loading.
- The floor is reinforced to handle heavy packages.
- Fire protection is added inside the cargo hold.
This entire process takes around 4 to 7 months, depending on the details.
Why Is FedEx Doing This?
- FedEx says this new plane will help replace older planes in its fleet.
- It’s a smart way to upgrade without buying a brand-new aircraft from scratch.
What Planes Does FedEx Already Have?
- FedEx already owns 24 ATR 72-600 freighters (these are made at the factory specifically for cargo).
- It also has 19 older ATR 72-200s and 16 smaller ATR 42s.
- These planes are flown by partner airlines in places like:
- Europe – by Swiftair and ASL Airlines Ireland
- USA – by Empire Airlines, Mountain Air Cargo, and Gulf & Caribbean Cargo
- Canada – by Morningstar Air Express
What’s Coming Next?
- FedEx has 6 more ATRs arriving by the end of 2026.
- It also placed a new order for 10 more ATR 72-600s to be delivered between 2027 and 2029.
How Big Is This Plane?
- The ATR 72-600 has a cargo capacity of approximately 10 tons.
- It can fit:
- 5 large pallets, or
- 7 smaller containers (LD3 size)
Final Takeaway
FedEx is upgrading its fleet with a smarter, eco-friendly plane that used to carry people but is now built to deliver packages. It’s cost-effective, efficient, and helps connect smaller cities to big FedEx hubs. Pretty impressive move.
At Lading Logistics, we keep your cargo moving with speed, safety, and precision.
