SINGAPORE — US-based Galactic Holdings has contracted ST Engineering to design and execute the world's first conversion of a B757 into a firefighting aircraft, designated as a Passenger-to-Tanker (P2T) conversion.
The first aircraft will be converted at ST Engineering's facilities in the United States and scheduled for entry into service in 2024.
The aircraft will hold up to 7,000 gallons (26,500 liters) and will have a longer range than most in-service firefighting jets.
"We have committed to deploying the first Boeing 757P2T in 2024 and building a fleet after the award of the Supplementary Type Certificate. It is an advantage that we can also rely on ST Engineering for maintenance services for our future fleet,"
Darrin Henry, Managing Member of Galactic Holdings, said.
Galactic Holdings is planning to secure 10-15 B757P2Ts from ST Engineering in the long run.
Currently, the world's only Boeing-converted firefighting aircraft are three Boeing 737-300s operated by American Coulson Aviation and Coulson Aviation (Australia).
