{"id":102992,"date":"2025-07-12T16:46:26","date_gmt":"2025-07-12T11:16:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/aviationa2z.com\/?p=102992"},"modified":"2025-07-12T16:46:35","modified_gmt":"2025-07-12T11:16:35","slug":"fedex-to-get-first-converted-atr-72-600-in-the-world","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/aviationa2z.com\/index.php\/2025\/07\/12\/fedex-to-get-first-converted-atr-72-600-in-the-world\/","title":{"rendered":"FedEx to Get First Converted ATR 72-600 in the World"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

SINGAPORE-<\/strong> FedEx Express (FX)<\/a> is set to receive the world’s first converted ATR 72-600 LCD freighter from ACIA Aero Leasing, following a definitive sale agreement. The aircraft, previously a passenger model, will be delivered by December 2025 and enter service from FedEx\u2019s regional hubs (e.g., MEM, CGN).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The aircraft, converted through ACIA\u2019s in-house program launched in 2024, will include unique modifications such as a large cargo door and rear flip door. The initiative marks a significant evolution in regional cargo fleet modernization for FedEx Express.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"FedEx
Photo: By Maarten Visser from Capelle aan den IJssel, Nederland – EI-FXI Atr42F Fedex propblur, CC BY-SA 2.0, https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/w\/index.php?curid=26613830<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

FedEx Converted ATR 72-600 Deal<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

ACIA Aero Leasing, headquartered in Singapore<\/a>, has finalized a landmark sale of a converted ATR 72-600 LCD freighter (MSN1239) to FedEx Express.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This aircraft is the first of its kind\u2014a former passenger version of the ATR 72-600 converted into a freighter by ACIA under its 2024-launched speculative program.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This conversion is a milestone for both ACIA and the global air cargo market. The deal represents not only a significant technical achievement but also a reaffirmation of ACIA\u2019s leadership in ATR freighter conversions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

FedEx, the world\u2019s largest operator of ATR freighters, is the launch customer for the 72-600 LCD, reinforcing its strategic alignment with the latest generation of regional freighter solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The aircraft is expected to be delivered by December 2025 and will integrate into FedEx\u2019s feeder fleet, providing cost-efficient, high-performance cargo capacity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Mark Dunnachie, SVP Commercial at ACIA Aero Leasing, the custom enhancements\u2014developed in collaboration with IPRC, a sister company\u2014make the 72-600 LCD an ideal fit for FedEx\u2019s evolving operational needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"FedEx
ATR 72-600; Photo- ATR<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Technical Advancements<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The converted ATR<\/a> 72-600 will feature several key modifications that distinguish it from earlier models. These include a forward large cargo door (LCD) and a rear upper-hinged flip door, both of which enhance accessibility and loading efficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, IPRC, a wholly owned ACIA subsidiary, has recently acquired M7 design rights for the rear flip door, allowing operators to maximize the aircraft\u2019s cargo capabilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

These enhancements enable optimized operations, especially for high-frequency regional routes. FedEx will benefit from increased volume flexibility, better payload utilization, and improved turnaround times in smaller markets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ACIA emphasized that these modifications are proprietary to their LCD conversion process and are designed to exceed the current industry standards for regional freighters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Photo: FedEx<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

FedEx\u2019s ATR 72-600F and Historical Orders<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

FedEx Express has a longstanding relationship with ATR. In 2017, it signed a purchase agreement for 30 ATR 72-600F aircraft directly from the manufacturer, with options for 20 more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

These aircraft represented the first ATR freighters to be factory-built with a dedicated cargo configuration, including a windowless fuselage and large front and rear cargo doors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The ATR 72-600F, which began deliveries in 2020, was designed specifically for express operations. It features a Class E main cargo cabin, reinforced floor panels, and flexible loading options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In bulk configuration, it provides a volume of 74.6 cubic meters, while in ULD mode, it accommodates up to seven LD3 containers or nine 88\u201d x 62\u201d pallets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

David L. Cunningham, then-President and CEO of FedEx Express, highlighted the aircraft\u2019s role in supporting regional logistics growth, stating that the ATR 72-600F allows FedEx to serve emerging markets more efficiently with heavier and bulkier loads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ATR CEO Christian Scherer echoed this sentiment, noting that the aircraft was developed after a rigorous technical and economic evaluation. He emphasized its unique market position as the only new-build large regional freighter currently available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"ATR-72\"
Photo: ATR<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Outlook: What This Means for Regional Air Cargo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

With this new conversion program, ACIA is not only pushing the boundaries of aircraft repurposing but also creating a niche segment in the cargo aviation industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The ATR 72-600 LCD provides a solution tailored for airlines and integrators seeking modern, fuel-efficient regional freighters without the long lead times or costs of brand-new aircraft.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For FedEx, the integration of this aircraft strengthens its feeder network and supports its global strategy of replacing older turboprops with next-gen models.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It reflects a broader trend of freighter conversions gaining traction amid rising e-commerce demand and the need for sustainable, right-sized air cargo operations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stay tuned with us. Further, follow us on social media for the latest updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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