newstodate.aero

Aug 17, 2021 (newstodate): Out of production since 1998 after performing its first flight on January 15, 1983, the SAAB 340 aircraft is still an asset for many operators around the world.
   One major role is played by the SAAB 340 as a cargo aircraft after conversion from passenger aircraft.
   The Swedish company TAM, Taby Aircraft Maintenance, is seeing an expanding market for conversion to freighters of SAAB 340 passenger aircraft, being the first company worldwide to be approved by the US Federal Aviation Administration, FAA, as well as the European Aviation Safety Authority, EASA, to perform a full cargo conversion of Saab 340A and Saab 340B aircraft.
   TAM is thus supporting companies worldwide with EASA- and FAA-approved conversion kits.
   One recent example is the conversion supported by TAM kits of the first of five SAAB 340B+ aircraft by US company C&L Aviation Services, a Maine-based MRO facility.
   This is also the first-ever cargo conversion of the Saab 340B+ aircraft with production serial numbers from 340-360 to 340-459, powered by stronger GE-engines and offering a maximum cargo volume of 1,280 cu ft, and a maximum payload of 9,325 lbs.