Wichita State University’s National Institute for Aviation Research has received delivery of two Boeing 737 aircraft for modification.
The aircraft are part of a yearlong project with Virginia-based Dynamic Aviation to modify three 737 aircraft for a special-mission program.
“Dynamic Aviation is excited to partner with WSU-NIAR. Through this partnership we will create significant value, which will allow us to continue to serve our customer well,” said Michael Stoltzfus, CEO of Dynamic Aviation.
These are the first commercial aircraft to undergo modification in the former Boeing Air Force One modification facilities adjacent to McConnell Air Force Base.
A team of up to 90 staff and students of NIAR WERX (formerly the Engineering Design and Modification Team) will design, modify, test and obtain Supplemental Type Certificates for the program.
In September, NIAR WERX announced it would expand from engineering design services to add hands-on modification in partnership with Sequoia Aircraft Conversions and the Kansas Modification Center.
NIAR WERX provides engineering services, aircraft modification, flight test/certification and environmental testing services. The team consists of approximately 180 engineers, 65 aircraft mechanics and 45 students.