Kenai Aviation, an Alaska-based air transport company, took delivery of a P2012 Traveller from Tecnam during the Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, Florida, this week.
The nine-passenger, high-wing, turbocharged piston twin was developed with commuters in mind. Its modern amenities, comfort, and ergonomic design help the aircraft bring a high level of service to the communities that Kenai serves.
The P2012’s introduction into the Kenai Aviation fleet provides the company’s customers with a range of cost-effective configuration options while offering features including premium interiors, in-seat power, higher class leg room and under-seat storage space. The aircraft’s TKS de-ice system and overall rugged design will provide Kenai’s passengers with reliable, timely service throughout Alaska’s challenging aviation environment, Tecnam said.
“We are excited to bring a new aircraft to market here in Alaska,” said Kenai Aviation’s owner and director of operations, Joel Caldwell. “We believe the Tecnam Traveller fills a great need here and that as we prove its capabilities, other operators will be quick to follow us in acquisition of the aircraft type,” Caldwell added.
“We are delighted that Kenai Aviation chose the P2012 Traveller, it is the right aircraft for their operations and for the Alaska landscape” says Tecnam’s managing director, Giovanni Pascale.
Kenai Aviation has been providing on-demand air carrier services in the Southcentral Alaska region since 1961. Robert “Bob” Bielefeld founded the company to serve oilfield air-transportation needs.
The Caldwell family took over the business from the Bielefelds in 2018 with plans to expand Kenai’s local services “to the rest of Alaska and beyond,” the company said. Kicking off the growth plan, this year Kenai is launching scheduled service of daily flights from Anchorage to the three Alaska communities of Kenai, Homer, and Valdez.
