UNITED KINGDOM- India-based domestic commuter airline Spirit Air has taken a significant step towards expanding its fleet by signing a Letter of Intent (LOI) to purchase six factory new BN2T-4S turboprop Islander aircraft from UK aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman.
The BN2T-4S Islander is powered by twin Rolls Royce (Allison) Model 250 turboprop engines. It boasts an extended cabin, accommodating an extra row of seats compared to the standard piston Islander.
With its engines offering a remarkable 400shp (flat rated), the aircraft demonstrates a 22% increase in disposable payload while maintaining exceptional short-field performance.
Spirit Air LOI for Islander Aircraft
As the largest variant of the Islander series, the BN2T-4S obtained type certification from the FAA in late 2022. Further, it has recently been validated in New Zealand. The certification process is also underway in India and other countries.
The new BN2T-4S aircraft come equipped with the latest Garmin avionics, including PFD, MFD, and electronic engine instrumentation.
The aircraft’s interior and seating will also be tailored to meet Spirit Air’s specific requirements. Further ensuring a comfortable flying experience for passengers.
While the new fleet is under construction at Britten-Norman’s newly established UK facility, Spirit Air will initially receive four fully factory-refurbished BN2T-4S Islanders to facilitate its entry into service.
Spirit Air plans to utilize its fleet of BN2T-4S Islander aircraft to operate scheduled passenger services across India.
These aircraft will play a vital role in providing essential sub-regional connectivity, bridging the gap between remote grass airstrips and municipal sub-regional landing strips with the country’s primary airports.
The excitement from Executives
Mark Shipp, Technical Director and Head of Design at Britten-Norman expressed his enthusiasm, stating
“The Islander, both piston and turboprop, has a long-established history of operating successfully across India and the surrounding region. Its durability makes it highly suitable for operating in remote, semi-prepared locations, which sets the Islander apart within this aviation class. The enhanced capabilities of the BN2T-4S will suit Spirit Air’s requirements perfectly, and we are very pleased to be working with them as the first operator of this variant of our great aircraft.”
Mark Shipp, Technical Director and Head of Design at Britten-Norman
Capt. S. K. Verma, Managing Partner of Spirit Air, remarked,
“We are pleased to partner with Britten-Norman for the order of new BN2T-4S Islander aircraft in the STOL space for our commuter operations from short, grass airfields located in the districts of India. Indian Navy used this aircraft between 1984 and 1999. We have an eternal commitment to connecting places and people together and strive to provide opportunities to create and live where they want. We will help make important resources available and fly our customers safely and efficiently even where the conditions are difficult.”
Capt. S. K. Verma, Managing Partner of Spirit Air
About Spirit Air India
At Spirit Air, being unique is in our airline’s DNA. Our mission is not to choose the easy path but to embrace the vital one. We are dedicated to connecting people and places eternally, empowering individuals to shape their lives wherever they desire.
Our commitment extends to making essential resources accessible, ensuring our customers safe and efficient journeys, even in challenging conditions.
The Spirit Air team embodies these values, tirelessly striving to provide exceptional service to everyone we serve.
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