FTAI Aviation and Aeronautical Engineers Inc. (AEI) have announced a strategic partnership aimed at delivering a more cost-effective Boeing 737-800 freighter solution for airlines worldwide. The collaboration brings together FTAI’s expertise in engine maintenance with AEI’s proven cargo conversion capabilities, enabling the delivery of customised freighter aircraft at scale while significantly improving operating economics.
David Moreno, President of FTAI Aviation, highlighted the opportunity for the platform, stating that the Boeing 737-800 is set to become the workhorse of the narrowbody cargo sector. However, he noted that growth has been limited by the absence of engine solutions tailored specifically for cargo operations. Through this partnership, FTAI will develop and maintain lower-cycle engines optimised for cargo use, allowing both companies to offer aircraft with substantially reduced operating costs. The initiative also expands FTAI’s CFM56 platform into cargo applications, extending the engine’s lifecycle across passenger, freighter, and power markets.
With nearly 6,000 aircraft delivered, the Boeing 737-800 remains the most widely produced narrowbody aircraft globally, making it an ideal candidate for long-term freighter operations. Under the agreement, FTAI will leverage its CFM56 engine supply and aftermarket maintenance capabilities to ensure reliable and cost-efficient fleet performance. AEI, meanwhile, will contribute its extensive experience in passenger-to-freighter conversions.
As a global leader in the conversion market, AEI has developed more than 130 Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) and completed over 625 aircraft conversions—more than any other provider. Robert T. Convey, Senior Vice President at AEI, emphasised the strength of the partnership, noting that combining AEI’s conversion expertise with FTAI’s engine maintenance services provides airlines with a proven, long-term solution for expanding freighter capacity.