Azul (AZUL), a Brazil based carrier, has received certification to adapt its four Embraer E195 regional jets into dedicated cargo freighters. Three more E195s will follow, pushing the airline’s cargo jet fleet to a total of six aircraft.

The first cargo-adapted E195 began its commercial services on September 26, 2020, according to the airline’s statement. The aircraft had most of its seats removed to accommodate additional payload after receiving certification on September 24, 2020.

The increasing demand for cargo services has pushed the carrier to adapt its Embraer E195 into dedicated air freighters.

“We are seeing record demand for the services provided by Azul Cargo Express and are pleased to innovate to further meet the needs of our customers,” Azul (AZUL)’s CEO John Rodgerson said.

Even before the adaptation, two of the airline’s passenger aircraft were already operating under Azul Cargo Express for the past six months.

According to the statement, three additional E-jets will be converted into air freighters to join the two company-owned Boeing 737-400s. In addition to the freighter jets, Azul (AZUL) also has five ATR 72-600 Quick-Change aircraft dedicated to its cargo operations.