Boeing and Guangzhou Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Company (GAMECO) have announced plans to open two new 767-300BCF conversion lines next year
The agreement, revealed during a signing ceremony at the China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai, comes in the wake of Boeing’s latest announcement regarding freighter requirements.
The North American manufacturer recently forecast the need for 1,720 freighter conversions – including 520 widebody aircraft – over the next 20 years, with Asian airlines accounting for more than 40% of these orders.
“It was mutually beneficial to continue building our relationship with GAMECO to provide additional conversion capacity for the 767-300BCF while supporting growth in the region,” said Peter Gao, vice president, Boeing commercial sales and marketing for China.
“GAMECO has demonstrated excellent execution on the 737-800BCF programme. We know it will bring the same expertise and proven capability to help deliver our medium widebody freighter conversions to our global customers.”
Established in October 1989 at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport, the engineering business is a joint venture between China Southern Airlines and Hong Kong’s Hutchison Whampoa, specialising in aircraft and airborne component maintenance, repair, and overhaul.
GAMECO general manager Norbert Marx said: “[The company] is very proud to extend its relationship with Boeing. The introduction of the 767-300BCF programme further grows our regional presence and enhances our strategic focus around meeting strong customer demand.”
The additional 767-300BCF conversion lines will be in situated in GAMECO’s new hangar.
