ECT Aviation, based in the Republic of Ireland, is entering the dedicated cargo market with the acquisition of its first Britten-Norman BN2T-4S Islander aircraft. The move marks a strategic expansion for the company, which currently operates a Pilatus PC-12 NGX for business aviation and medical evacuation missions across Europe.
The newly acquired turboprop will be used for time-critical cargo flights between Lyon Saint Exupéry Airport (LFLL) and select North African destinations. These operations, carried out in partnership with aviation services firm AVICO, will focus on transporting high-value and sensitive freight such as pharmaceuticals, fine art, precious metals, and essential documents.
While ECT’s headquarters remain at Lyon Bron Business Airport (LFLY), the company is registered in Dublin and will operate cargo flights under a German Air Operator Certificate (AOC) via Pro Air. Launch of services is expected by late 2025, following delivery of the aircraft this autumn.
“The BN2T-4S offers the right combination of rugged performance and modern avionics to deliver reliable cargo operations, even into short or remote runways,” said Fabrice Jounot, Managing Director at ECT Aviation. “We’ve seen consistent demand from clients needing fast, flexible logistics into regions underserved by traditional carriers.”
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. Powered by twin Rolls-Royce 250 B17F turboprops and featuring a stretched fuselage with 30% more cabin space, the aircraft boasts a maximum takeoff weight of 8,500 lbs and a range of 805 nautical miles (1,491 km). It can remain airborne for over seven hours, making it well-suited for regional missions.
The aircraft will be fitted with a Garmin G600 TXi glass cockpit suite, including dual 10-inch displays, GTN 750/650Xi navigation units, and ADS-B Out transponders, ensuring compliance with international safety and airspace requirements.
ECT has also signed a Letter of Intent for a second BN2T-4S Islander, with delivery expected in early 2026—a sign of the company’s commitment to building a nimble, regionally focused cargo fleet for Europe–North Africa logistics.