Republic of Ireland-based ECT Aviation has acquired its first Britten-Norman BN2T-4S Islander aircraft, expanding its operations into dedicated cargo services between Europe and North Africa. The aircraft will be deployed on high-frequency freight routes, notably linking Lyon Saint Exupéry Airport (LFLL) with key North African destinations.
Flights will be operated in partnership with aviation services provider AVICO, with a focus on high-value, time-sensitive cargo including pharmaceuticals, artwork, precious metals, and critical documentation.
Headquartered at Lyon Bron Business Airport (LFLY) and registered in Dublin, ECT currently operates a Pilatus PC-12 NGX for business aviation and MEDEVAC across Europe.
The BN2T-4S will mark the company’s entry into scheduled freight operations, with service launch expected by late 2025, following delivery of the aircraft this autumn. Operations will be conducted under a German Air Operator Certificate (AOC) via Pro Air.
In addition to this initial purchase, ECT has signed a Letter of Intent for a second BN2T-4S Islander, scheduled for delivery in early 2026.
This planned expansion reflects the company’s strategic intent to build a dedicated, regionally focused cargo fleet serving markets that require speed, flexibility, and operational resilience.
The BN2T-4S is the largest variant of Britten-Norman’s proven utility platform, the Islander. It features twin Rolls-Royce 250 B17F turboprops (400 hp flat-rated), a stretched fuselage, and a 30% increase in internal cabin space.
The aircraft has a maximum take-off weight of 8,500 lbs and offers a range of 805 nautical miles (1,491 km), 7+ hours of endurance, and retains the platform’s STOL (short take-off and landing) capability, making it ideal for remote or unprepared strips.
The aircraft will be equipped with the latest Garmin G600 TXi glass cockpit, including 10” primary displays, GTN 750/650Xi NAV/COMM/GPS units, and ADS-B Out transponders – supporting enhanced safety, regulatory compliance, and pilot efficiency.
Fabrice Jounot, Managing Director at ECT Aviation, comments: “We’ve seen consistent demand from clients needing fast, flexible logistics into regions that are underserved by traditional carriers. The BN2T-4S offers the right combination of rugged performance and modern avionics to deliver reliable cargo operations, even into short or remote runways. It’s a highly capable platform that supports our strategy to grow specialised air freight between Europe and North Africa.”