Horizon Airways Doubles Down on Fleet Modernization with Order for Second Tecnam P2012 STOL
Scheduled for delivery by the end of 2026, the second aircraft will further revolutionize remote air travel across Australia’s Torres Strait and Cape communities.
CAPUA, Italy / QUEENSLAND, Australia – August 18, 2026 – Tecnam is proud to announce that Queensland-based Horizon Airways has signed an order for a second Tecnam P2012 STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) aircraft. Slated to join the Australian fleet by the end of 2026, this subsequent order rapidly builds upon the historic introduction of the country’s first P2012 STOL, signaling a massive leap forward for regional air travel.
Operating since 1994, Horizon Airways is a vital lifeline for communities across Central, Western, and Northern Queensland. The decision to double down on the P2012 STOL platform emphasizes the airline’s commitment to replacing an aging fleet of 1970s-era aircraft with state-of-the-art aviation technology.
The unique and pristine Torres Strait environment requires exceptional operational capabilities. The Tecnam P2012 STOL offers unprecedented short runway performance, giving Horizon Airways the ability to reliably service outer island communities—including Mabuiag, Darnley, and Murray Islands, which are home to some of Australia’s shortest commercial airstrips. With two P2012 STOL aircraft operating from Horn Island by the end of 2026, Horizon will significantly expand its capacity to offer the safety of modern, twin-engine operations and spacious, air-conditioned cabins featuring nine ergonomic passenger seats.
“The anticipation surrounding our initial P2012 STOL order has been incredible, and adding a second aircraft to our future fleet was a natural step,” said Ed Morrison, CEO of Horizon Airways. “This aircraft represents the exact future we envision for regional air travel across the Torres Strait and Cape communities. Having a second Tecnam P2012 STOL joining us by the end of 2026 ensures we can meet growing demand, double our modern operational capabilities, and continue providing the highest level of safety and reliability to the communities that rely on these essential services every day.”
“Seeing Horizon Airways expand their P2012 STOL fleet so quickly is a testament to how perfectly this aircraft fits the demanding Torres Strait environment,” said Francesco Sferra, Tecnam P2012 Sales and Special Missions Manager. “Bringing modern safety, twin-engine reliability, and premium comfort to the world’s most challenging commercial runways is what this aircraft does best. We are incredibly proud to deepen our partnership with Horizon Airways and support their mission to keep these vital island communities efficiently connected.”
This latest acquisition by Horizon Airways marks a significant milestone for Tecnam in the region, bringing the total number of P2012 aircraft operating in Australia to five. The rapidly growing footprint of the P2012 series highlights the platform’s versatility, reliability, and perfect suitability for the vast and demanding conditions of the Australian continent.
The continued expansion of the P2012 platform in Australia is supported by authorized dealer Hallmarc Aviation. “The versatility and robustness of the Tecnam P2012 platform are proving ideally suited to Australian operating conditions,” stated Michael Loccisano, Director and CEO of Hallmarc Aviation. “We are proud to facilitate this second order for Horizon Airways. Delivering enhanced short-field performance is critical for these remote applications, and we look forward to continuing our support as they strengthen regional connectivity across the country.”
About Horizon Airways Horizon Airways is a Queensland-based Australian aviation company providing charter flight services and pilot training across Central, Western, and Northern Queensland. Founded in 1994, Horizon Airways operates from multiple regional bases including Mackay, Cloncurry, Innisfail, Cairns, and Horn Island. The company delivers a broad range of aviation services including flight training, charter operations, aerial work, and remote regional support services. Horizon Airways supports local communities, industry, tourism, and regional transport with a strong focus on safety, reliability, and operational excellence.
Operating under CASA-approved certifications, Horizon Airways provides pilot training pathways from recreational licences through to commercial pilot qualifications and advanced ratings. In July 2022, Horizon Airways commenced operations in the Torres Strait to support the fishing industry. Since then, the company has expanded to better service the community through the transport of seafood, passengers, and freight between the islands, culminating in the order of the country’s first Tecnam P2012 STOL.
More info: https://horizonairways.com
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