Leading Edge Air Services Corporation (LEASCOR) has taken delivery of the first Cessna SkyCourier in the Philippines, adding a versatile passenger and cargo aircraft to support connectivity across the country’s island communities.

The aircraft is a 19-passenger variant fitted with the optional passenger-to-freighter conversion kit, enabling operators to move between passenger and cargo missions as requirements change.

“Being able to shift seamlessly between passenger and cargo missions is critical for operators serving remote and regional markets,” says Juan Escalante, vice president, SkyCourier sales at Textron Aviation. “The Cessna SkyCourier provides a dependable, versatile platform that enables operators to respond quickly to changing transportation needs while maintaining efficiency.”

Designed for operations in challenging environments, the twin-engine, high-wing turboprop combines short take off and landing capability with substantial payload capacity. A large cargo door, fixed landing gear and Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-65SC engines support operations across a wide range of mission profiles.

LEASCOR was established in 2016 as the air chartering arm of ACDI Multipurpose Cooperative, serving members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other uniformed personnel, including active service members, retirees, reservists and civilian employees.

“The arrival of our first Cessna SkyCourier marks a defining milestone for Leading Edge Air Services Corporation,” says Maj. Gen. Gilbert S. Llanto, Armed Forces of the Philippines (Ret). “It strengthens our ability to provide reliable air connectivity to communities that depend on consistent passenger and cargo service, particularly in remote areas.”

The SkyCourier is available in passenger and freighter variants, alongside optional conversion kits that enable passenger, cargo or Combi configurations. The freighter can accommodate up to three LD3 shipping containers and a payload of 6,000lb, while the passenger version seats up to 19 passengers.

Both variants feature single-point pressure refuelling, two crew doors and a large side door for cargo loading or passenger boarding. Powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-65SC engines and operated with Garmin G1000 NXi avionics, the aircraft offers a maximum cruise speed of more than 200kts and a maximum range of 900 nautical miles.