321 Precision Conversions, LLC (321PC), today announced Vallair Solutions sàrl; a wholly owned company of Vallair Capital S.A. (Vallair), as the launch customer for the passenger-to-freighter conversion of Airbus A321-200 aircraft including the prototype aircraft and follow-on option aircraft.
The prototype Aircraft (MSN891) was delivered by Vallair to 321PC in July. The company anticipates approval of a FAA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for A321-200 conversions in 2019, with EASA and CAAC validations thereafter. The Airbus A321 family includes over 1,400 aircraft already built and the A321NEO is now in production. This will generate an almost unprecedented feedstock for future conversion candidates.
Vallair, already engaged in the converted cargo aircraft market, is an ideal launch customer for 321PC. They are developing a comprehensive support network for both engines and airframe components as well as MRO services to better serve the new operators of the A321-200PCF.
321PC President Gary Warner said, "The next generation of the Precision Converted Freighter partnered with the operational experience of ATSG will provide a best-in-class freighter that will meet the needs of our customers. We are thrilled to have Vallair front and center as an integral part of this exciting new program. We look forward to the market enjoying the capability, flexibility, and efficiency of the A321-200PCF for many years to come."
"The A321PCF program is an exciting project and we are delighted to be the launch customer for this new freighter, our current activities and experiences generated by our engineers, both in Luxembourg and France, through the freighter conversion of other aircraft offers the right environment and facilities to gradually turn into a dedicated center of competence on this type," said Vallair CEO Grégoire Lebigot. "We believe the A321 provides significant competitive advantage over the established market competition due to its lower fuel consumption and better noise abatement levels. We are looking forward to building upon the success of this advanced aircraft."
About Vallair
Vallair is a fast-growing aviation company with uniquely integrated capabilities in support of end of service aircraft, engines and major components. With six complementary business units (trading leasing, aircraft teardown, aircraft MRO, engines, aero-structures, and cargo conversions), Vallair offers aircraft operators and owners around the world cost effective solutions to extend the life of their assets. Built on engineering excellence, best in class customer support, and a passion for aviation, Vallair is committed to making sure "end of service does not mean end of life".
Vallair's Cargo Conversion Business Unit: A leading player in the passenger to freighter market, with existing solutions on the Boeing 737-400 and ATR72, Vallair continues to invest and innovate in the cargo segment, aiming to provide the market with value added and cost-effective solutions. For more information, please see www.vallair.aero.
About 321 Precision Conversions
A joint venture between Precision Aircraft Solutions and Air Transport Services Group (ATSG) for the development and certification of the A321-200 passenger-to-freighter aircraft. Precision Aircraft Solutions is an aerospace major modification, products, and services company that has earned its stripes converting the 757 for industry-leading companies around the world. ATSG is a leading provider of aircraft leasing and air cargo transportation and related services to domestic and foreign air carriers and other companies that outsource their air cargo lift requirements. For more information, please see www.precisionaircraft.com and www.atsginc.com.
View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20171003006587/en/
Contacts:
321 Precision Conversions and Precision Aircraft Solutions
Gary Warner, President, 503-601-3001
or
Vallair Solutions sàrl
Gregoire Lebigot, CEO, (352) 26103962
