Airbus A380-800 in Toulouse
Lufthansa Technik are currently working on converting an Airbus A380 into the a freighter to use during this difficult time. It has been requested by an unidentified customer to the company that the maintenance provider needs to help to support the temporary conversion of the aircraft for freighter use. This will be the first time and an Airbus A380 will be classified as a cargo aircraft. It is something we thought would never come true but it seems to be becoming a reality for the foreseeable future.
Lufthansa Technik issued a press release earlier today regarding the temporary conversion of commercial aircraft to freighter to help transport urgent supplies during these times. Many airlines such as Lufthansa, Air Canada and Aegean have converted some of heir aircraft into temporary cargo by removing the seats. So far, 40 airlines have received inquires about aircraft conversions. These request are for many different types of aircraft. However, the conversion of the Airbus A380 is one that will make history!
According to the company, they have clearly stated that this A380 belongs to a 'undisclosed customer'. However, after taking a guess from 15 airlines that operate the Airbus A380 currently, it isn't difficult to spot who is using their aircraft for freighter and who are using them for repatriation. According to FlightRadar24, many airlines such as Malaysia Airlines are heavily relying on their A380 to perform repatriation flights. For example, they operated numerous flight from Kuala Lumpur to Cairo to repatriate several citizens. However, airlines such as Asiana Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa and Qantas have all been using their A380 aircraft for cargo flights. Especially Lufthansa and British Airways who have been operating daily cargo flights to Asia. However, Lufthansa seems to be relying on their A330 aircraft while British Airways have stored all but two Airbus A380. One of British Airways's A380 aircraft currently remain in Lufthansa Technik's care in Manila as it undergoes maintenance. Currently, they are using their two Boeing 777 aircraft which would account for the storage space of one Airbus A380.
Others include Emirates. However, they do all their own maintenance when it comes to their A380 aircraft. Hi Fly is another option who recently received maintenance with TARMAC Aerosave. Although, this aircraft is usually leased out to different airlines. However, we will just have to wait and see what happens! Who will confess to this mighty conversion?
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