For the second year in a row, Kenai Aviation, a family-run airline and charter company based in Alaska, took delivery of a Tecnam P2012 Traveller during the Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, Florida.
The Traveller is a newer high-wing, turbocharged twin-engine design that has seats for nine passengers and one or two pilots. Its interior is well-appointed and includes comfort and convenience features, including in-seat power, generous legroom, and storage space under the seats. For operators, the aircraft’s TKS de-icing system and durable design make it well-suited for service in Alaska’s challenging environment. As a piston-powered airplane, it can also turn quickly, and is not subject to the same cycle limitations as turboprop aircraft.
“We have finally found an aircraft that is perfectly suited for our commuter markets in the state of Alaska,” said Joel Caldwell, Kenai Aviation owner and CEO. “The P2012, designed specifically to meet the needs of our scheduled commuter markets in South Central Alaska, has exceeded our expectations.”
Kenai added the first P2012 to its fleet last year to help it respond to growing demand for commuter air service. The company’s other aircraft include a Cessna 206 and a Beechcraft King Air 200.
The acquisition of a second P2012 will allow it to offer more frequent flights to better serve its local communities in a part of Alaska where people depend on small aircraft for basic transportation.
Kenai Aviation has been in business since 1961 and became a fixture in Alaska aviation. The Caldwell family acquired the company in 2018 and has gradually increased its capacity to serve customers with a wide range of missions.
