FLEET - World’s First Boeing 737-800 Combi Conversion by KF Aerospace Secures Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)

KF Aerospace is proud to announce the successful certification of the world’s first Boeing 737-800 Combi conversion, marking a major advancement in global aircraft modification capability. Transport Canada has officially approved the modification with the issuance of a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC #SA25-72), clearing the way for the aircraft to enter service.

The newly certified 737-800 Combi integrates a unique multi-role configuration, featuring a forward cargo compartment with five pallet positions and a 90-passenger cabin in the aft section. This innovative layout makes it the first B737-800 aircraft of its kind anywhere in the world, with no comparable Combi currently in operation in the U.S., Europe, or other international markets. The first aircraft was completed and delivered to Air Inuit in October 2025 as part of the airline’s fleet modernization.

The 737-800 Combi STC further expands the aircraft’s versatility, building on the proven utility and reliability of the AEI 737-800SF large cargo door. Its certification marks another milestone in the successful collaboration between KF and AEI.

“The achievement of the 737-800 Combi underscores the power of a true partnership that KF and AEI have enjoyed over the course of three decades,” says Robert T. Convey, Senior Vice President at AEI. “By combining AEI’s cargo door conversion expertise with KF’s engineering and operational strengths, we are able to deliver a world-first Combi that unlocks new possibilities for operators worldwide.”

Completion of the program required a substantial redesign of the aircraft’s interior and systems to meet stringent certification requirements. KF Aerospace engineered and integrated fire detection, halon-based fire suppression, and advanced smoke-containment systems for the forward cargo section, while also modifying existing freighter-specific detection systems to meet Combi-specific criteria. The effort resulted in the creation of hundreds of new parts and custom-engineered solutions to make this technically complex modification program possible.

The project is a testament to the advanced capabilities of KF’s in-house engineering department. KF’s manufacturing, installation, and test teams also played critical roles throughout the conversion.

“This project reflects the ingenuity, dedication, and deep technical expertise of our entire team,” says Gregg Evjen, President of KF Aerospace. “KF is proud to deliver a world-first solution that expands what’s possible in aircraft conversion and supports our customers’ complex operational needs.”

The newly certified 737-800 Combi directly meets the customer’s requirement for a large-capacity mixed-use aircraft, seamlessly accommodating both cargo and passengers. More broadly, the project underscores KF Aerospace’s ability to overcome the regulatory and engineering challenges that have historically limited Combi aircraft development worldwide.

This milestone highlights KF Aerospace’s leadership in innovative conversions, advanced engineering, and custom STC development, demonstrating the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering industry-defining solutions through close collaboration between engineering, certification, production teams, and key partners.

 

FLEET - Canada’s Air Inuit takes delivery of first B737-800(C)

Air Inuit (3H, Kuujjuaq) has taken delivery of its first combi-configured B737-800(C), it announced on social media.

C-FTUW (msn 40852) was ferried from Kelowna, where it was being converted by KF Aerospace, to Montréal Trudeau on October 9, 2025, ADS-B data shows. It is the first of three B737-800(C)s it expects to operate. The second one, C-FTUY (msn 40853), has not yet been delivered.

The carrier expects to introduce C-FTUW to scheduled commercial service during the second half of November, chief executive Christian Busch told ch-aviation. The aircraft has a configuration of 90 seats and five pallets for cargo.

ch-aviation fleet data shows Air Inuit’s fleet currently comprises four B737-200Cs, one B737-300(QC), one B737-800 (under conversion), one B737-800(C), one B737-800(SF), seven DHC-6-300s, four DHC-8-100s, three DHC-8-300s, four DHC-8-300(F)s, and six DHC-8-Q300s.

CH Aviation / Photo: Air Inuit

 

FLEET - KF completes Air Inuit B737-800 Combi conversion

The first 737-800 Combi has completed conversion ahead of certification and entry into service with Air Inuit. The 2012-vintage aircraft (40852, ex-Comair) is in a five-pallet, ninety-seat configuration, and its first commercial flight is planned for November after obtaining its Transport Canada STC in the coming weeks, Air Inuit told Cargo Facts

Photo: Air Inuit

 

FLEET - Air Inuit introduces 1st B737-800

Air Inuit has taken into operation its very first Boeing B737-800. The aircraft, C-FTUZ (40855) has entered commercial service on 16 July 2024. It was delivered to the airline's base at Montréal-Trudeau on 10 July 2024 after having been converted at Kelowna into a -800SF.
The Boeing is the first of three B737-800s the airline is set to introduce. The two others are currently being converted and are expected to become combi-aircraft, similar as their current B737-200s.
Air Inuit will use the new aircraft to eventually replace its older B737s, of which it currently operates four. It also has a single B737-300QC in the fleet. Next to its Boeings, the airline also flies with three Beech A100s, four Beech 350s, one DHC-3 (through Johnny May Air Charter), four DHC-6s, four DHC-8-100s, and twelve DHC-8-300s.
Photo by Air Inuit.

 

 

 

Fleet Modernization - Air Inuit Ratifies an Agreement to Acquire Three Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 Aircraft to Better Serve the People of Nunavik and Beyond

SAINT-LAURENT, QC, July 3, 2023 /PRNewswire/ - Air Inuit today announced the ratification of an agreement for the acquisition of three Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 aircraft to be added to its fleet as part of its mission to provide world-class passenger and freight service to the people of Nunavik, its Network and beyond. The aircraft will be customized using Air Inuit's innovative combi configuration solution to provide safe and comfortable passenger service and reliable freight delivery simultaneously.

By eventually replacing the venerable Boeing 737-200 aircraft currently in service, fuel emissions will be cut by nearly 40 per cent.

The three Boeing Next-Generation 737-800 aircraft will be fitted with main deck cargo doors to meet requirements at hubs across Nunavik and beyond, which in turn service each of the communities of Air Inuit's network.

This addition to Air Inuit's fleet marks a milestone for the airline which was founded in 1978. "We can all be proud of this vital service which is celebrating 45 years of operation in 2023. Once again, Air Inuit is demonstrating leadership as it grows and adapts to the changing needs of the communities it serves," said Noah Tayara, Executive Chairman of Air Inuit.


The introduction of the three new aircraft will take place gradually over the next 24 months. This fleet modernization project and the growth of the region will require important governmental investments to upgrade Nunavik's airstrips. Discussions are currently underway with stakeholders to ensure this vision is developed in accordance with the priorities of community members. Further details will be provided in the coming months.


SOURCE Air Inuit

Air Inuit to be Launch Customer for Bombardier Q300 Freighter with a Large Cargo Door

Air Inuit will use the freighter to enhance cargo service to Canada’s Northern Communities

Bombardier Commercial Aircraft and Air Inuit Ltd. announced today that they are working together on a passenger-to-freighter conversion for the Q300 turboprop aircraft. The freighter will include a large cargo door. Dorval, Québec-based Air Inuit, a long-time operator of Q300 aircraft has championed this modification and will be the launch customer for the conversion. In support of this conversion, a new Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) will be developed under license by a specialized third party entity.

“With its excellent airfield performance – especially on gravel runways – the Q300 aircraft is well adapted for remote operations like those required to support Canada’s resource industries and Northern Communities,” said Christian Busch, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Air Inuit. “The Q300 aircraft has served us well in our passenger, charter and cargo operations in Nunavik and other markets for many years, and we look forward to enhancing our cargo services with three Q300 Large Cargo Door freighters.”

“The cost-effective Bombardier Q Series aircraft continue to prove their high value with more than 150 operators around the world,” said Todd Young, Vice President and General Manager, Customer Services, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “The passenger-to-freighter conversion will offer an outstanding opportunity for additional utilization of the robust, reliable platform that the Q300 aircraft provides. We thank Air Inuit for its enthusiasm and assistance in moving this project forward.”

The converted Q300 aircraft is expected to have a cargo capacity of 12,500 lb with an optimized cargo door. The aircraft will accommodate palletized and free load cargo.

Air Inuit currently operates a fleet of 25 aircraft that includes two Bombardier Q100 and 10 Q300 turboprops.