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COMMERCIAL MRO 48 APRIL 2017 AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE TECHNOLOGY passenger operations. Even relatively ven- erable MD-80s are getting the conver- sion treatment. Aeronautical Engineers Inc. (AEI) is transforming a third MD-80 series twinjet to an MD-83SF freighter. The twinjet is capable of accommodating a dozen main deck containers or pallets and will be used by Everts Air Cargo to meet seasonal demand in Alaska as well as on-demand business in North America. Currently focusing on 737-300 and -400 contracts, PEMCO's Andrews envi - sions working on 737NG aircraft as well, as they trickle out of passenger operations. SEALING THE DEAL When an aircraft rolls into PEMCO to ready itself for its second life here's what happens. Technicians open the whole machine up and strip out the interior. That preps the airplane for a prelimi- nary inspection to identify any structural cracks or damage. Then comes reinforce- ment of the main deck floor and instal- lation of the cockpit 9g barrier. Finally it's time to set the door. Everyone inter- viewed by AMT for this article agrees that fitting the forward port side cargo door is the biggest technical challenge faced by technicians, no matter what the aircraft type. One reason is that the door and the fuselage each flex independently of the other. "We reinforce that area to make sure it doesn't flex as much as the rest of the aircraft," says Andrews. "It's pretty much rigid in that area … It's designed to flex, but not as much as the entire aircraft." Before work begins, of course, the conversion shop has to possess the appropriate STC. Smiley says it takes three to four months to complete the converting of a 737-series aircraft and AviationPros.com/company/10133920 ( 6 6 0 ) 8 8 5 - 8 3 1 7 / w w w. A v F a b . c o m A V I A T I O N F A B R I C A T O R S Make your legacy King Air 90 or 200 AvFabulous! Developed by the aviation experts at AvFab, the AvFabulous approach allows you to mix and match budget-conscious mods to upgrade your cockpit and cabin. You get enhanced design, improved functionality and comfort to enjoy today, while increasing your aircraft's resale value for tomorrow. Your aircraft is an investment. Add comfort. Add value. AvFabulous. · Arm Ledge Table System · Aft Jump Seat Kit · Pleated Window Shades · Lateral Tracking Seat Bases · Clear View Hidden Headrests · Furniture Updates · Crew & Passenger Seat Repair Interior MODS that make DOLLARS & SENSE