Taby Air Maintenance secures FAA approval for Saab 2000 cargo conversion, enhancing capabilities for express freight and logistics.
Taby Air Maintenance has received Federal Aviation Administration approval for its Saab 2000 freighter conversion, as reported by London's Air Cargo News.
The Swedish MRO and aircraft conversion specialist announced this significant milestone on March 24, confirming that its Supplemental Type Certificate now meets FAA standards. This approval follows the European Union Aviation Safety Agency clearance granted in December.
The FAA decision allows Taby Air Maintenance to market the converted aircraft in both the US and Europe. The company began work on the high-speed turboprop in January 2022, with the maiden flight taking place in March 2023 after some delays.
The Saab 2000 cargo conversion is specifically tailored for express freight, e-commerce, and time-sensitive logistics. It offers 55.4 cubic meters of cargo space, a floor loading limit of 730 kg, and a maximum payload of 6,622 kg. Under US Part 135 rules, the payload is capped at 3,402 kg.
Notable features of the conversion include a strengthened carbon fiber floor, an integrated roller ball loading system, and LED lighting in the cargo bay. This project builds on Taby Air Maintenance's earlier Saab 340 conversion, which is already widely used by regional cargo operators.
