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Leading Edge Air Services Corporation (Leascor) has taken delivery of the first Cessna SkyCourier in the Philippines. The delivery of the aircraft, designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., represents a step towards improving passenger and cargo connections in the island communities of the East Asian country. The Cessna SkyCourier is a versatile turboprop aircraft designed for various missions.
The aircraft delivered to Leascor is a 19-passenger variant equipped with an optional conversion kit for passenger-to-cargo operations. This configuration allows operators to quickly switch between passenger and cargo missions, which is significant for transportation, tourism, and logistics in the region. Juan Escalante, Vice President of SkyCourier Sales, emphasizes the importance of this flexibility for operators serving remote and regional markets.
Technical features and applications
The Cessna SkyCourier is designed for operation in demanding environments. The twin-engine high-wing aircraft combines a high payload capacity with short takeoff and landing capabilities. The large cargo door allows for efficient loading, while the landing gear and Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-65SC engines contribute to durability and operational reliability.
Leascor was founded in 2016 as an aviation charter company of the ACDI Multipurpose Cooperative, supporting members of the Philippine Armed Forces as well as other uniformed personnel. Maj. Gen. Gilbert S. Llanto, retired, commented on the significance of the Cessna SkyCourier for the company: “The arrival of our first Cessna SkyCourier marks an important step for Leading Edge Air Services Corporation. It enhances our ability to provide reliable air connections to communities that rely on consistent passenger and cargo service, especially in remote areas.”
With the introduction of the SkyCourier, Leascor aims to tap underserved routes, improve logistics, and support regional economies. Maj. Gen. Llanto highlights that the aircraft provides the capability to respond faster and operate more efficiently, contributing to the creation of a resilient and forward-looking air transport network for the Philippines.
