Qantas Converting Dash 8s to Freighters?

[Oliver Gigacz]

I was wondering if Qantas ever considered converting some of the older Dash 8s to freighters, to replace Australia Air Express's BAE 146s? Or even possibly converting the older Boeing B737-400s.

[Karl M]

Not in this current economic climate.

[Ellis Taylor]

Last year AAE signed a new agreement with Cobham to least the 146QTs, so I doubt that the Dash 8s would be converted any time soon. See the report here. (http://australianaviation.com.au/cobham-gains-contract-extension-for-aae/)

Most of the Dash 8-100s have already been sold off, and with new routes and frequencies every other week, I think QantasLink will be keeping their aircraft in pax configuration for while.

[Brenden S]

the 146's upload more freight than a Dash 8. Also the 146 can go anywhere a dash can go pretty much to if the 146 has low pressure tyres fitted. The 146 can also be fitted with a gravel kit to.

[Adam P.]

The 146 can also be fitted with a gravel kit to.

A gravel kit to what?

[Damian N]

I think a gravel kit is fitted to landing gear to deflect stones from being flung upwards (and into engines)

[Nigel C]

Oh...fitted with a gravel kit too...now it makes sense!