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ECT Aviation Expands Cargo Fleet with BN2T-4S Islander

ECT Aviation Expands Cargo Fleet with BN2T-4S Islander
ECT Aviation, based in the Republic of Ireland, has taken a significant step into dedicated cargo operations with the acquisition of its first Britten-Norman BN2T-4S Islander. This move reflects the company’s strategic intent to address the growing demand for high-frequency, time-sensitive freight services between Europe and North Africa. The initial route will connect Lyon Saint Exupéry Airport with key destinations across North Africa, targeting sectors that require rapid and reliable logistics solutions.
Strategic Focus on High-Value Cargo
The newly introduced turboprop freighter will primarily transport high-value goods such as pharmaceuticals, artwork, precious metals, and critical documents. ECT Aviation plans to commence operations by late 2025 in collaboration with aviation services provider AVICO. Flights will be conducted under a German Air Operator Certificate (AOC) held by Pro Air, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. This marks the company’s first venture into scheduled cargo services, complementing its existing operations.
Currently, ECT Aviation operates a Pilatus PC-12 NGX, which serves business aviation and medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) missions across Europe. The addition of the BN2T-4S Islander represents a diversification of the company’s fleet and service offerings. Furthermore, ECT Aviation has signed a Letter of Intent for a second BN2T-4S, anticipated for delivery in early 2026, signaling a commitment to expanding its cargo capabilities.
Market Context and Competitive Landscape
The expansion occurs amid a cautiously optimistic outlook for the business jet sector, as noted in a recent Jefferies report. However, ECT Aviation faces challenges from fluctuating market demand and intensifying competition from regional carriers. Competitors such as Ascend Airways and Gulf Air are actively pursuing fleet expansions, while Batik Air is focusing on growth in the Australasian market. Additionally, ongoing technological advancements, including the recent FAA Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) for Cessna Caravan modifications, highlight the need for ECT Aviation to maintain operational agility and innovation.
Aircraft Capabilities and Technical Specifications
The BN2T-4S Islander is the largest variant of Britten-Norman’s utility aircraft family. It is powered by twin Rolls-Royce 250 B17F turboprop engines and features a stretched fuselage that provides 30% more cabin volume compared to earlier models. The aircraft has a maximum take-off weight of 8,500 pounds, a range of 805 nautical miles (1,491 kilometers), and an endurance exceeding seven hours. Its renowned short take-off and landing (STOL) capabilities make it particularly well suited for operations from remote or unprepared airstrips.
Equipped with the Garmin G600 TXi avionics suite, the BN2T-4S includes 10-inch primary flight displays, GTN 750/650Xi navigation and communication units, and ADS-B Out capability. These features ensure regulatory compliance and enhance situational awareness, supporting safe and efficient cargo operations.
Fabrice Jounot, managing director at ECT Aviation, emphasized the strategic value of the aircraft, stating, “We’ve seen consistent demand from clients needing fast, flexible logistics into regions underserved by traditional carriers. The BN2T-4S offers the right combination of rugged performance and modern avionics to deliver reliable cargo operations, even into short or remote runways. It’s a highly capable platform that supports our strategy to grow specialised air freight between Europe and North Africa.”
As ECT Aviation advances its cargo operations, the company aims to build a regionally focused freight fleet tailored to the evolving demands of markets that prioritize speed, flexibility, and operational reliability.

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