AEI secures DGCA approval for 737-800SF conversion

Aeronautical Engineers, Inc. (AEI) has received Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval from India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for its Boeing 737-800SF freighter conversion. The DGCA approval for the 737-800SF STC (ST02690LA) builds on a growing list of validations already granted by global aviation authorities, including the FAA, CAAC, EASA, TCCA, UK CAA, CAACI (Cayman Islands), DCA (Guernsey), as well as Brazil’s and Argentina’s ANACs, the Miami-based conversion specialist said. The approval follows Chennai-based cargo carrier Afcom Holding’s lease of a previously converted AEI 737-800SF (MSN 33003). Afcom will operate the aircraft from India on routes across Asia. According to AEI, the lease arrangement prompted the company to pursue DGCA validation. Commenting on the milestone, Robert Convey, AEI’s senior vice president of sales and marketing, said the approval will open the door for Indian cargo operators to access AEI’s 737-800SF, offering a cost-effective pathway to improved profitability.