Based in the Republic of Ireland, ECT Aviation has entered the dedicated cargo market with the acquisition of the first Britten-Norman BN2T-4S Islander aircraft. The move illustrates the strategic expansion of the company currently operating the Pilatus PC-12 NGX for business aviation and medical evacuation missions across Europe.
The newly acquired turboprop will be used for temporally critical cargo flights between Lyon Cent Excelly Airport (LFLL) and some destinations in North Africa. In cooperation with aviation services company Avico, these businesses focus on the transport of high value and sensitive cargo such as pharmaceuticals, art, precious metals and important documents.
ECT's headquarters remains at Lyon Bron Business Airport (LFLY), but the company is registered in Dublin and operates freight flights under a German Airlines Certificate (AOC) via Pro Air. The service is expected to launch by the second half of 2025 after the aircraft's delivery this fall.
“The BN2T-4S offers the right combination of rugged performance and modern avionics, providing reliable cargo operations on short and remote runways,” said Fabrice Jounot, managing director of ECT Aviation. “We have seen consistent demand from clients who need rapid, flexible logistics to areas where traditional airlines are not being served.”
Designed for short takeoff and landing (STOL) operations, the BN2T-4S Islander is the largest and most capable version of Britten-Norman's utility aircraft line. Featuring a Twin Rolls-Royce 250 B17F turboprop and a telescopic fuselage with 30% cabin space, the aircraft boasts a maximum takeoff weight of 8,500 pounds and a range of 805 nautical miles (1,491 km). It can maintain air for more than 7 hours and is suitable for local missions.
The aircraft will be equipped with a Garmin G600 TXI Glass Cockpit suite, including a dual 10-inch display, a GTN 750/650XI navigation unit and an ADS-B out transponder, ensuring compliance with international safety and airspace requirements.
ECT also signed the second BN2T-4S Islander Intention, with delivery expected in early 2026. This is an indication of the company's commitment to building an agile, regionally focused cargo fleet for Northern European African logistics.
