Queensland-based Horizon Airways has signed an order for a second Tecnam P2012 STOL (short take-off and landing) aircraft. Slated to join the Australian fleet by the end of 2026, this subsequent order rapidly builds upon the historic introduction of the country's first P2012 STOL in May, signalling a massive leap forward for regional air travel.

Operating since 1994, Horizon Airways is a vital lifeline for communities across central, western and northern Queensland. The decision to double down on the P2012 STOL platform emphasises the airline's commitment to replacing an ageing fleet of 1970s-era Piper and Cessna aircraft with state-of-the-art aviation technology.

The unique and pristine Torres Strait environment requires exceptional operational capabilities. The Tecnam P2012 STOL offers unprecedented short runway performance, giving Horizon Airways the ability to reliably service outer island communities, including Mabuiag, Darnley and Murray Islands, which are home to some of Australia's shortest commercial airstrips. With two P2012 STOL aircraft operating from Horn Island by the end of 2026, Horizon will significantly expand its capacity to offer the safety of modern, twin-engine operations and spacious, air-conditioned cabins featuring nine ergonomic passenger seats.

“The anticipation surrounding our initial P2012 STOL order has been incredible, and adding a second aircraft to our future fleet was a natural step,” reveals Ed Morrison, CEO of Horizon Airways. “This aircraft represents the exact future we envision for regional air travel across the Torres Strait and Cape communities. Having a second Tecnam P2012 STOL joining us by the end of 2026 ensures we can meet growing demand, double our modern operational capabilities and continue providing the highest level of safety and reliability to the communities that rely on these essential services every day.”

“Seeing Horizon Airways expand its P2012 STOL fleet so quickly is a testament to how perfectly this aircraft fits the demanding Torres Strait environment,” adds Francesco Sferra, Tecnam P2012 sales and special missions manager. “Bringing modern safety, twin-engine reliability and premium comfort to the world's most challenging commercial runways is what this aircraft does best. We are incredibly proud to deepen our partnership with Horizon Airways and support its mission to keep these vital island communities efficiently connected.”

This latest acquisition by Horizon Airways marks a significant milestone for Tecnam in the region, bringing the total number of P2012 aircraft operating in Australia to five. The rapidly growing footprint of the P2012 series highlights the platform's versatility, reliability and perfect suitability for the vast and demanding conditions of the Australian continent.

The continued expansion of the P2012 platform in Australia is supported by authorised dealer Hallmarc Aviation. “The versatility and robustness of the Tecnam P2012 platform are proving ideally suited to Australian operating conditions,” states Michael Loccisano, director and CEO of Hallmarc Aviation. “We are proud to facilitate this second order for Horizon Airways. Delivering enhanced short-field performance is critical for these remote applications, and we look forward to continuing our support as it strengthens regional connectivity across the country.”

Operating from multiple regional bases including Mackay, Cloncurry, Innisfail, Cairns and Horn Island, Horizon delivers a broad range of aviation services including flight training, charter operations, aerial work and remote regional support services.

In July 2022, Horizon Airways commenced operations in the Torres Strait to support the fishing industry. Since then, the company has expanded to better service the community through the transport of seafood, passengers and freight between the islands, culminating in the order of the country's first Tecnam P2012 STOL.