excerpt (article includes photos and a video showing some of the conversion work)
Major aerospace and aviation manufacturer Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has cut a hole in the fuselage of a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft to install a cargo door.
Cutting the cargo opening in the plane took place shortly after the beginning stages of the aircraft being converted from a passenger plane to a freighter. IAI says that cutting a large opening in the aircraft’s hull is a testament to its decades-long engineering capabilities. IAI says that the entire process should take around 130 days.
What is the process of converting a passenger plane into a freighter?
- Modifying the structure of the aircraft
The installation of a new cargo door
Replacing and reinforcing the cabin floor
Installing reinforcements in the cargo door area
Adapting the electric network and other systems to enable a safe and convenient operation
Receiving certification for the converted aircraft from the Civilian Aviation Authority and the FAA