First Air to convert two of three ex-KLM 737-400s into combis

First Air has acquired three former KLM B737-400s, two of which will be converted into a combi-configuraton (4 pallets & 72 passenger seats) with PEMCO World Air Services.

Thus far, it is understood that msn 25412 will be the first to undergo conversion at Tampa Int'l starting later this month with its service entry date set for late 2013.

A second 737-400, set for service entry in early 2014, has been allocated a slot on the conversion line though the exact msn has not yet been revealed. A third 737-400 will remain in a full pax configuration and will be deployed on the airline's Ottawa Int'l to Iqaluit route in August. The Canadian operator, which specializes in serving remote communities in Canada's Nunavut, Nunavik and Northwest Territories, says the added size of the B737-400, against that of its B737-200 Adv.s, will allow it to "increase capacity and operate at a higher level of efficiency." First Air currently operates the ATR42, the ATR72, the B727-200(M), the B737-200 Adv., the B737-200(M) and a B767-200(F).

Ch-Aviation

Photos:First Air