IPR Conversion, based in Zug, Switzerland, has received European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) approval for its Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) to install a large cargo door on the ATR 72-600, enabling passenger-to-freighter conversions. This certification applies to ATR 72-600 MSN 1239, owned by ACIA Aero Leasing, marking the first such aircraft worldwide converted from passenger to cargo configuration.
The conversion occurred at Empire Aerospace in Idaho, a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) partner of IPR Conversion with extensive ATR experience. Developed in collaboration with PMV Engineering and coordinated with ATR, the original equipment manufacturer, the program preserves the ATR 72-600’s modern glass cockpit, advanced avionics, operational efficiency, and fleet compatibility.
With this approval, IPR Conversion holds the only certified passenger-to-freighter STC for the ATR 72-600 globally. The ATR 72-600, in production since 2011, now offers operators younger freighters as initial models reach 15 years of age. ATR has delivered more -600 series aircraft than -500 models, expanding the convertible fleet. Airlines with mixed passenger-cargo operations, having upgraded passenger fleets to -600 standards, can now standardize fleets, reducing training, maintenance, and operational complexity.
The large cargo door facilitates loading of LD3 containers or larger items. FAA validation is underway to broaden market access. ACIA Aero Leasing supplied one of five recently acquired ATR 72-600s for this initial conversion, with work starting in August 2025 and completion targeted for early 2026.