Miami-based Aeronautical Engineers Inc. (AEI) has launched the 737-900 Extended Range Special Freighter (B737-900ERSF) program, which involves converting Boeing 737-900 aircraft into dedicated cargo planes. The company aims to complete certification by early 2029.
Licensed by Boeing and serving as an FAA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) provider, AEI has been developing the project for some time but faced delays due to the grounding of the 737 MAX fleet and the 2024 door plug incident involving an Alaska Airlines 737-9.
Under the conversion, a 86 x 137-inch cargo door will be installed on the left side of the aircraft, and the main deck will be reconfigured into a Class E cargo compartment. The converted aircraft will be able to carry 12 full-height AAA containers or pallets plus one AEP/AEH container. With a payload capacity of up to 26,170 kg, the 737-900ERSF will become AEI’s largest and highest-capacity narrowbody freighter.
AEI’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Robert Convey, highlighted growing demand for e-commerce and express shipping, noting that the new model will offer operators significant advantages in cargo capacity, volume, and economic efficiency. Following FAA approval in 2029, AEI plans to secure certification from both the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) shortly thereafter.
Image: Aeronautical Engineers Inc.
