The Fort Lauderdale-based operator has taken delivery of its first Tecnam Traveller, the initial aircraft in a two-unit order signed at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh.
Tropic Air Charters has taken delivery of its first Tecnam P2012 Traveller. The Fort Lauderdale-based operator’s executive team travelled to Tecnam’s headquarters in Capua, Italy, for an acceptance ceremony before the aircraft completed a transatlantic ferry flight to its new base at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE).
The Traveller’s arrival begins Tropic Air’s fleet modernisation programme, under which its Britten-Norman aircraft will be phased out in favour of the twin-engine Tecnam type. The aircraft is intended for Tropic Air’s charter routes connecting South Florida with the Bahamas, with an air-conditioned cabin, USB ports and short take-off and landing (STOL) capability suited to shorter island runways.
Anthony Marinello says: “Travelling to Capua to see our first P2012 Traveller roll off the production line and complete the acceptance process in person was an incredible experience. Seeing the aircraft arrive on our ramp in Florida makes it all real.”
Francesco Sferra adds: “Tropic Air Charters is dedicated to providing a premier travel experience in a high-frequency, island-hopping environment.”
The acquisition, announced at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh in July, covers two P2012 Traveller aircraft, with the second due to follow. The first aircraft is scheduled to enter service on Tropic Air’s Bahamas routes ahead of the peak winter travel season.
