Summary
- Torres Strait Air is investing $16.3 million to upgrade its fleet with ten latest Britten-Norman Islander aircraft.
- The upgraded Islander can have a full IFR glass cockpit, all-window seating, and roomier baggage storage, with capability for as much as nine passengers.
- In an announcement, the carrier reaffirmed its commitments to sustainability inside Queensland, aiming to upgrade to the zero-emission variant when launched.
Queensland charter carrier Torres Strait Air is ready to tackle ten latest Britten-Norman Islander aircraft as a part of its A$25 million ($16.3 million) fleet modernization program.
Towards net zero
Over the subsequent five years, the airline will revamp its current aircraft inventory, focused on Britten-Norman’s nine-seater aircraft. Torres Strait Air currently operates seven older models of the sort, in addition to the marginally smaller Cessna 206 and Aerocommander Shrike, for its island-hopping operations from its base at Horn Island Airport (HID).
Despite being in production for nearly 60 years, Britten-Norman’s upgraded Islander will feature up-to-date technology, including a full IFR glass cockpit, increased mass, all-window seating, and roomier baggage storage. It appears the carrier will keep its current set-up for as much as nine passengers, with the choice to hold 1.6 tonnes of freight in an all-cargo configuration.
Photo: Britten-Norman/CAeS
Depending on which engine variant Torres Strait Air selects, the aircraft will have the option to offer a spread of as much as 1006 NM, with a maximum take-off weight (MTOW)of 8500 lbs and a top speed of 176 knots.
As a part of Britten-Norman’s scheme, Torres Strait Air may also up its green goals. The British aircraft manufacturer uniquely offers an choice to upgrade to its upcoming zero-emission Islander, developed in collaboration with Cranfield Aerospace Solutions (CAeS). Though the aircraft just isn’t expected to turn into commercially available until 2026, Torres Strait Air can upgrade to the aircraft upon its launch, allowing the carrier to support local wildlife, slash emissions, and develop the regional eco-tourism industry.
In an announcement provided by the airline, chief executive Daniel Takei noted Torres Strait Air’s commitments to bolstering connectivity across Northern Australia and constructing sustainable infrastructure.
Queensland’s sustainable future
As Torres Strait Air moves towards a greener business model, Queensland can be developing its sustainable tourism offerings to encourage visitors while protecting the environment and supporting indigenous cultures.
Photo: ChameleonsEye / Shutterstock
In May, the Queensland Government earmarked A$9.2 million ($6 million) to back a big selection of eco-initiatives, including developing a nature-based “glamping” ground on South Stradbroke Island, upgrading Carnarvon Gorge Holiday Park and an out of doors tourism hub in Pioneer Valley.
Queensland’s government is ready to support the Australian aviation industry’s net zero drive, working in collaboration with Qantas, Airbus, Lanzajet, and Jet Zero Australia to construct a sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) facility throughout the state. With an A$2 million ($1.3 million) investment from Airbus and Qantas, on top of Queensland’s A$760,000 ($490,000) pledge and A$6 million ($3.9 million) external capital, the SAF plant will convert sugar cane grown in northern Queensland into biofuel.
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