Boeing Shanghai Aviation Services Co., Ltd., redelivered the third of three Boeing 737-400 passenger-to-freighter conversions to Hainan Airlines and Yangtze River Express, both subsidiaries of the HNA Group.
With this redelivery, Boeing Shanghai will have completed five conversions at its facility, which is at Shanghai’s Pudong International Airport.
“We are pleased to have Boeing Shanghai’s professional team to support our 737-400 passenger-to-freighter conversion program. Their hard work and high level of technology and quality ensure reliable, safe flights,” Liu Wenbin, general manager of Hainan Airlines Engineering, said. “We see this successful conversion program as a good start for future cooperation with Boeing Shanghai in more areas.”
The modification was conducted under the supplemental type certificate held by Aeronautical Engineers, Inc. (AEI).
“AEI is very proud to have been selected by Hainan Airlines and Yangtze River Express for their 737-400 freighter program and to have teamed with Boeing Shanghai to deliver these conversions. AEI looks forward to a continuing relationship with both airlines as they plan future fleet upgrades,” David McDonald, vice president of AEI, said. “We also look forward to working together with Boeing Shanghai to pursue opportunities for serving more customers in Asia.”
Hainan Airlines, with headquarters in Haikou, is the fourth-largest airline in terms of fleet size in China.
Yangtze River Express Airlines Company Limited provides domestic and international air cargo transportation and logistics services.
“This redelivery is a testament to Boeing Shanghai’s capability of providing high-quality and on-time conversions. It is our honor that Hainan Airlines and Yangtze River Express selecting Boeing Shanghai to be their aircraft modification service provider,” Dermot Swan, CEO of Boeing Shanghai, said. “Our partnership with AEI ensures the successful completion of this well-designed conversion that enables the operator to maximize the value and operational efficiency of an important asset. We look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship with Hainan Airlines, Yangtze River Express and AEI.”
Boeing Shanghai is a joint venture between Boeing, Shanghai Airport Authorities and China Eastern Airlines.