Honeywell, a long-time ally of Embraer, has signed a new agreement with the Brazilian aviation company to certify changes to the avionics system of its first generation of E-Jets aircraft.
The agreement involves configuring and certifying the new system before the corresponding authorities, including ANAC, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
With the launch of the new cargo version of the Embraer E-Jets, Honeywell will have to modify the avionics system to support the cargo operation of the new aircraft. The changes to the flight deck system are necessary since the use and operation profile of a cargo aircraft are different from that of a passenger aircraft, according to Rogério Botelho, Director of Program Development for Honeywell Aerospace.
The conversion of Embraer E-Jets from passenger to freighter configuration involves changing the airframe and other systems, as well as installing the necessary cargo handling systems, soil reinforcement, and Rigid Cargo Barrier (RCB). The certification and delivery of the first aircraft are expected to be in the second quarter of 2024.
Embraer Starts First Passenger-To-Freighter Conversion
Embraer received the first E190 that will undergo a passenger-to-freighter conversion in February 2023. The first conversion should take 15 months, with a redelivery check, according to Frank Stevens, Embraer Service & Support VP global MRO centers. Embraer expects a flow of about 10 aircraft per year for the next 12 years.
The freighter conversion will take place at Embraer’s facility in Brazil and includes the front cargo door on the main deck, the cargo handling system, soil reinforcement, RCB, and a cargo smoke detection system.
The new agreement between Honeywell and Embraer not only expands the collaboration between the two companies but also supports the growth of the cargo aviation sector, which grew significantly during the pandemic and has held its pace in the past year.
