en.Wedoany.com Reported - MRO provider Corsica Technics has signed a letter of intent with French developer Kepplair Evolution to purchase 10 conversion kits for modifying ATR 72 passenger or cargo aircraft into firefighting planes.

This agreement is part of Corsica Technics' long-term plan to transform its headquarters at Bastia Airport into a maintenance hub for the Mediterranean region. By offering these conversion kits, the company can provide customers with rapidly deployable firefighting solutions.

The converted Kepplair 72 twin-turboprop aircraft can also perform cargo transport and medical evacuation missions, enabling multi-role operations throughout the year.

Paris-based Kepplair Evolution currently has firm orders for 18 aircraft or conversion kits. The company is awaiting the arrival of the first donor aircraft at Toulouse-Blagnac Airport for conversion into the initial prototype. The donor aircraft, an ATR 72 freighter provided by ACIA Aero Capital, will be modified by Aerotec & Concept, including the integration of Kepplair's KEDS delivery system.

Flight tests and initial water drop tests are expected to begin before the end of the year.

"The Kepplair 72 is based on a mature, robust, and readily available platform, and its conversion concept aligns with current market demand," said Jean-Marc Cristelli, President of Corsica Technics. "Corsica Technics aims to leverage its roots in aviation and its ability to support the development of new solutions for civil defense to seize this opportunity."