Miami, Florida – June 23rd, 2015 – Aeronautical Engineers, Inc. (AEI) is pleased to announce that GE Capital Aviation Services (GECAS), the aviation leasing and financing arm of GE [NYSE:GE] will be the launch customer for the AEI B737-800SF program. GECAS plans to convert up to 20 of its Boeing 737-800NG passenger aircraft to freighters. The first aircraft is scheduled for conversion starting in 2016 and will achieve FAA supplemental type certification (STC) in 2017.

“As the pre-eminent commercial airline leasing company in the world, we are elated to announce that GECAS is the launch customer for the AEI B737-800SF conversion program,” said Roy Sandri, AEI president. “This award is testament to the extraordinary quality, durability and value offered by the AEI conversion products.”

In October of 2014, AEI formally launched the B737-800SF passenger-to-freighter and combi program, in conjunction with the announcement of AEI finalizing an agreement with Boeing to license engineering data for the B737-800/-900 aircraft. The AEI B737-800SF converted freighter will be able to accommodate eleven 88”x125” AAA full height containers or pallets and one AEP/AEH container for a total of 12 positions. Depending upon the aircraft model and aircraft weight limits, the AEI B737-800SF will be able to carry a payload of up to 52,000 LB (23,587 KG). Additionally the AEI B737-800SF freighter will incorporate an 86” x 140” main cargo door and will include up to 5 supernumeray seats.

When combined with proven reliability, the AEI Converted B737-800SF will allow GECAS to keep their aircraft – “In the air, generating revenue”.