Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) is preparing to begin flight tests of its first Airbus A330-300 converted freighter, following the completion of the main structural modifications on the aircraft.
The twinjet, identified as MSN1574, has been removed from its jacks — a stage that indicates the end of heavy structural work in the passenger-to-freighter (P2F) process. The aircraft is now entering ground testing ahead of its first flight, expected in the coming weeks, with certification planned by the end of 2026.
IAI launched the A330-300 conversion program in 2024, using a 12-year-old airframe previously operated by Air Europa and leased from Avolon. The aircraft is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines, a common configuration among A330-300s in service.
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The conversion involves major changes to the airframe, including the installation of a large cargo door on the forward section of the fuselage, reinforcement of the main deck floor, and the addition of a cargo handling system. The aircraft is designed to carry up to 30 containers with a payload of around 61 tonnes.
Airbus A330 2026 | IAI 
Airbus A330 2026 | IAI 
Airbus A330 2026 | IAI
A structural feature of the project is a rigid barrier behind the cockpit with a “Z-shaped” layout, allowing better use of the forward fuselage and creating space for an additional cargo position or crew rest module. The configuration also improves weight distribution along the aircraft.
“Our A330-300 passenger-to-freighter conversion has been purpose-built to meet evolving market demand,” said Yaacov Berkovitz, general manager of IAI’s aviation group.
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IAI is targeting operators looking for mid-size widebody freighters, a segment traditionally served by converted Boeing 767s. The A330-300 offers a larger fuselage cross-section and higher volumetric capacity, while maintaining similar mission profiles on regional and medium-haul routes.
The availability of feedstock is a central factor for the program. Airbus produced 776 A330-300s, providing a sizable pool of aircraft that can be converted as airlines retire older passenger jets.
“This achievement marks another step in executing IAI’s long-term vision to expand its role in the global air cargo market,” said chief executive Boaz Levy.
The flight test campaign will validate systems and performance before the aircraft moves toward certification, opening the way for entry into service of the converted type.
