The team behind aircraft innovators KF Aerospace is celebrating the ‘world’s first’ Boeing 737-800 passenger-cargo combi conversion having received authorization to enter service.
On January 9, 2026, Canada-based KF Aerospace confirmed that Transport Canada had officially approved its modified 737-800 with the issuance of a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC #SA25-72).
The Air Inuit 737-800, which formerly flew for South African Comair until 2022, was adapted by KF Aerospace into a unique multi-role configuration.
The Boeing 737-800(C) comes with a forward cargo compartment, with five pallet positions and a 90-passenger cabin.
“This innovative layout makes it the first B737-800 aircraft of its kind anywhere in the world, with no comparable Combi currently in operation in the U.S., Europe, or other international markets,” a KF Aerospace spokesperson said.
The first 737-800(C), registered C-FTUW, was completed and delivered to Air Inuit in October 2025 as part of the airline’s fleet modernization.
The 737-800 Combi built on the proven AEI 737-800SF large cargo door, with the certification marking another milestone in the collaboration between KF Aerospace and AEI.
“The achievement of the 737-800 Combi underscores the power of a true partnership that KF and AEI have enjoyed over the course of three decades,” says Robert T. Convey, Senior Vice President at AEI. “By combining AEI’s cargo door conversion expertise with KF’s engineering and operational strengths, we are able to deliver a world-first Combi that unlocks new possibilities for operators worldwide.”
According to KF Aerospace, completion of the program required a substantial redesign of the aircraft’s interior and systems in order to meet stringent certification requirements.
KF Aerospace engineered and integrated fire detection, halon-based fire suppression, and advanced smoke-containment systems for the forward cargo section, while also modifying existing freighter-specific detection systems to meet combi-specific criteria.
The effort resulted in the creation of hundreds of new parts and custom-engineered solutions to make this technically complex modification program possible.
“This project reflects the ingenuity, dedication, and deep technical expertise of our entire team,” says Gregg Evjen, President of KF Aerospace. “KF is proud to deliver a world-first solution that expands what’s possible in aircraft conversion and supports our customers’ complex operational needs.”
source
