Cascade Aerospace Receives FAA Supplemental Type Certificate for Challenger Regional Jet Freighter Conversion

Cascade Aerospace is pleased to announce that it has received a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for its Class E cargo conversion of the Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation (formerly Bombardier) CRJ100, CRJ200, and CRJ440 aircraft (CL-600-2B19 type designation).

The FAA approval (ST12397NY) represents a major milestone for the program and complements previously issued approvals from Transport Canada (SA07-44) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA.IM.A.S.02285). Together, these certifications expand the modification’s acceptance across major international aviation markets and provide operators with increased flexibility in deploying converted aircraft worldwide.

The conversion transforms the CRJ platform into a dedicated freighter with a payload capacity of up to 14,000 pounds through the installation of a Class E cargo compartment, reinforced cargo floor, and associated systems modifications. Cargo loading is accomplished through the aircraft’s existing forward entry and aft cargo doors, providing operators with a practical and cost-effective solution for regional cargo, express freight, and special-mission operations.

By extending the useful life of proven CRJ aircraft, the conversion offers operators a reliable and economical platform capable of serving regional markets, remote communities, and time-sensitive cargo routes.

The FAA STC follows an extensive certification effort involving detailed engineering analysis, testing, regulatory coordination, and compliance demonstrations conducted to satisfy the airworthiness requirements of multiple aviation authorities.

“Achieving FAA certification is an important milestone for this program and demonstrates the maturity and robustness of the design,” said Greg Hatton, Certification Leader. “Together with our Canadian and EASA approvals, this certification provides operators with increased confidence and operational flexibility while further demonstrating Cascade Aerospace’s capabilities in aircraft modification and certification programs.”

The FAA approval adds to Cascade Aerospace’s growing portfolio of certified aircraft modifications and reinforces the company’s position as a leading provider of aircraft engineering, certification, and conversion services.