Azul Linhas Aéreas completes first Cessna C208 Caravan cargo-to-passenger conversion

Azul Linhas Aéreas converts Cessna C208 Caravan for passenger operations

Azul Linhas Aéreas has completed its first conversion of a freighter aircraft into a passenger version. The work involved a Cessna C208 Caravan.

Registered PR-IHP, the aircraft was built in 2009 and originally left the factory as a Cessna Super Cargomaster. This is the Caravan’s dedicated cargo variant, while the type itself is the world’s most-produced single-engine turboprop.

PR-IHP retains its special colour-changing tail

In 2023, the aircraft received a special livery whose tail changed colour according to the angle of the light. That visual effect has now been retained, although the aircraft has been fitted with windows and seats as part of its conversion for passenger service.

Nine seats have been installed, matching the configuration of Azul’s other Caravans, as shown in a photograph taken last week.

First reverse conversion for Azul

Azul has previously converted passenger aircraft for cargo duties, specifically E195-E1 jets during the pandemic. However, this is the first time the airline has carried out the reverse process, converting a freighter into a passenger aircraft.