German broker and Cessna ASR, Com Air, has been experiencing plenty of business for the Cessna Caravan recently – but not particularly in its own country.

The aircraft are mainly being sold to cargo operators in Spain and passenger and cargo operators in Africa.

Sales manager Axel Beimdiek explained: “It’s difficult to operate the aircraft in Germany as it isn’t

yet certified for single engine commercial IFR.

“It’s limiting our potential customers to parachute clubs or private individuals/companies –

and for parachute operators, our experience tells us they are more likely to buy a second-hand Caravan.

“Whenever we have a new Caravan, we need an operator who is able to operate it commercially on

an IFR basis.”

Asked when he expected the appropriate legislation to be introduced in Germany, Beimdiek said: “The NPA should come out in July this year so I would expect it to be certified by the end of this year at the latest.”

Com Air/Diamond Aircraft Service usually brokers ‘whatever aircraft are interesting on the market’ including King Airs, Cheyennes, Piper Malibus and Embraer 120s. The company also carries out its own maintenance and refurbishment work, and operates its own commercial flight school for PPL, IFR, CPL and ATPL students.

With regard to the general outlook for Com Air’s area of business, Beimdiek said: “Personally speaking, we didn’t experience a lot of difference in business levels after September 11.

“Now is a very good time for us and we are also expecting some very good months ahead, particularly in view of the impending single engine commercial IFR certification for the Caravan.”