Dresden – This long-haul flight set a record: an Airbus A330 operated by Qantas flew from Sydney via Vienna. Dresden was brought. Due to its unladen weight, the aircraft was able to cover a distance of more than 16,700 kilometers in about 20 hours. Now it is being converted into a cargo ship at Elbe Flugzeugwerke (EFW).
Australian airline Qantas’ A330 has a long journey behind it. It was transported over 16,700 kilometers from Sydney to Dresden. © IMAGO/Olaf Schuelke
“All the electrical and hydraulic faults on the A330-200 have to be checked first, meaning the interior of the cabin, such as the seat and toilets, will be removed,” explains Kay Kluge, 51, flight manager with the company. He has been working with the company since 1988.
As project manager, he coordinates the entire conversion process for the 60-meter-long aircraft. It specifically involves the so-called “build cycle”, where cargo is converted from passenger to aircraft.
The top and side shells have been replaced, new reinforced floors have been installed and the former windows have been blinded. A multi-ton cargo door is also used.
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The A330 will need to have its electrical systems and its cargo-loading system with rollers for moving cargo “re-installed” by mechanics and electronics technicians.
“Only then can the final testing phase take place,” says Kluk, who hopes to finish on time within six months.
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The aircraft is converted into a cargo ship at various parking bays with the help of work platforms and suitably trained staff. © Norbert Newman
The Airbus A330-200 is currently in Hall 230 of the Elbe Flugsoukwerke. In the future, it will be able to carry 61 tons of cargo. © Norbert Newman
Aviation electronics technician Florian Boden (21) is installing new electrical systems as part of the transformation that will control future cargo planes. © Norbert Newman
A shortage of skilled workers hit the Dresden Elbe aircraft factory
However, due to shortage of skilled workers, this has become increasingly challenging.
EFW spokeswoman Anke Lemke (52): “In addition to retraining and exercises, we rely on foreign experts to handle orders.”
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