EFW (Elbe Flugzeugwerke) has successfully launched the first A330-300P2F test flights at Dresden Airport after months of preparation.

Facing unfavorable weather conditions during storm Xavier the first flight only took a few minutes. The second lasted for over six hours, followed by several other flight tests to achieve the supplemental type certificate (STC) in 2017.

The A330P2F conversion programme, launched in 2012 is collaboration between Airbus, EFW and ST Aerospace.

The A330P2F programme includes two versions – the A330-200P2F and the larger A330-300P2F. Of the two variants, the larger A330-300P2F is suited for integrators and express carriers due to its high volumetric payload capability with lower-density cargo.

Complementing this will be the A330-200P2F, which is optimised for higher-density freight and longer range performance.

DHL Express is the launch customer for the A330-300P2F program and has signed for several conversions.