In the Philippines, air connectivity is important, especially for interisland routes. Being an archipelago, it is important that planes get to operate even from rural areas. Textron Aviation announced that its Cessna SkyCourier has been officially certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). This approval allows the twin-engine utility turboprop to operate across the country, especially in remote and hard-to-reach areas. The first delivery of this aircraft in the region is set for the second half of 2025, with Leading Edge Air Services Corporation (LEASCOR) as the first recipient. LEASCOR is a subsidiary of ACDI Multipurpose Cooperative, one of the largest cooperatives in the Philippines.
Lannie O’Bannion, Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Flight Operations at Textron Aviation, noted the increasing interest in the SkyCourier across the Asia-Pacific region. The aircraft’s reliability and strong performance have made it highly sought after for various missions. Its ability to offer flexible cabin configurations combined with low operating costs has proven valuable for businesses that require versatility, especially in challenging operational environments.
The SkyCourier stands out for its ability to be flown by a single pilot while carrying a substantial payload, making it suitable for diverse roles, including air freight, passenger services, and specialized missions. Its design allows operators to switch configurations easily, ensuring it meets various operational needs while maximizing return on investment. This capability is particularly beneficial for operations in less accessible regions.
LEASCOR’s Fleet Expansion Plans
LEASCOR, which was founded in 2016 as the air charter arm of ACDI Multipurpose Cooperative, will be the first operator of the Cessna SkyCourier in the Philippines. ACDI Multipurpose Cooperative serves a wide range of members, including those in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and their families.
Major General Gilbert S. Llanto, Chairman of ACDI Multipurpose Cooperative, expressed optimism about the addition of the SkyCourier to their fleet. He stated that this new aircraft would enhance their ability to reach underserved communities throughout the Philippines. The SkyCourier will play a vital role in supporting ACDI’s various business initiatives, which include tourism, agriculture, aviation, mobility, and construction across the archipelago.
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