News / Israel orders immediate checks on IAI-converted 747-400 freighters

Some 29 converted 747-400s could face temporary grounding after the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel (CAAI) issued an airworthiness directive requiring immediate inspections after identifying a potential fire and crew oxygen risk.

The directive, AD ISR I-35-26-01-01, was issued on 1 January and applies to Boeing 747-400 aircraft converted to freighters under IAI/Bedek supplemental type certificates SA-151 or SA-152, including validated equivalents. Factory-built 747-400Fs are not affected.

According to the CAAI, the unsafe condition relates to insufficient clearance between electrical wiring and a flexible crew oxygen hose, which could lead to electrical arcing, fire and potential loss of oxygen supply to the flight crew. The issue was identified after damage was found to a cargo loading system wire harness alongside a ruptured oxygen hose, with chafing attributed to incorrect installation during the conversion.

The directive required operators to conduct an inspection before the next flight, with corrective action mandated if any damage or inadequate clearance is found. A limited ferry flight to a maintenance location is permitted, provided no signs of wear or chafing are detected during the initial inspection.

While the AD has been issued by Israel’s aviation authority and is not an FAA airworthiness directive, it applies to aircraft converted under the specified IAI approvals regardless of where they operate. US-registered aircraft are not automatically compelled to comply unless the FAA adopts the directive, but operators, lessors, and insurers typically expect identified safety issues to be addressed without delay.

Industry estimates suggest around 29 747-400s were converted by IAI under its Bedek Special Freighter programme, although only a small number remain active. Several have continued to log flights in recent weeks, indicating the type remains in limited commercial service.

Operators flying IAI-converted 747-400 freighters include Atlas Air, One Air (UK), Aerotranscargo, Terra Avia, ROMCargo Airlines, and Saudia Cargo, with some aircraft operating under ACMI or leasing arrangements involving Air Atlanta Europe.

A source told The Loadstar the issue was a fairly easy fix, but aircraft would need to be grounded temporarily.

The directive underlines the continuing airworthiness challenges associated with ageing widebody freighters, particularly converted aircraft, even as demand for long-haul cargo lift remains robust.