State-owned airline Satena is making a mark on the Colombian aviation landscape. In a series of recent announcements, the company has not only revealed a significant expansion of its route network, but has also made a significant investment in new aircraft, which promises to transform its operation in the country.
The purpose of new acquisitions
Satena has commissioned De Havilland Aircraft of Canada to purchase eight DHC-6-400 aircraft, known as Twin Otter. Designed to operate in demanding conditions, this model is ideal for accessing remote communities thanks to its ability to take off and land on short, unprepared runways. According to De Havilland’s official statement, these aircraft will allow Satena to improve its air connectivity throughout the country, providing access to hard-to-reach areas.
The DHC-6-400 is a modern version of the classic Twin Otter, which began development in 2007 and entered the market in 2010. With a capacity of 19 passengers, the aircraft has earned a solid reputation for its versatility, being useful in activities such as skydiving, environmental surveillance and medical evacuations, among other uses.
This addition of cutting-edge technology will enable Satena to strengthen its commitment to regional connectivity and economic development.
Expansion of routes and frequencies
Satena’s expansion is not limited to the addition of new aircraft. The airline has also announced the opening of new routes and increased frequencies to key destinations. Starting in September, Satena will begin operating four new routes to Cartago, Paipa, Arauca, Cúcuta and Yopal, with two weekly frequencies on each.
This expansion responds to the airline’s objective of strengthening social and economic cohesion in the country, facilitating access to flights essential for regional development.
Satena President General Oscar Zuluaga highlighted that these new routes will be operated with EJR-145 and B-1900 aircraft, which have capacities of 50 and 19 passengers, respectively. This expansion of the route network is part of a broader strategy to improve connectivity and respond to the growing demand for air transport in different regions of the country.
Connecting Colombia: Satena’s purpose
In addition to the new routes, Satena will also increase frequencies to the Amazon Route. Connections to San José del Guaviare, La Chorrera, La Pedrera and Leticia will see an increase in the number of weekly flights between August and December of this year.
The flights will be operated with B-1900D aircraft, which offer a capacity of 19 passengers and are designed to meet the demanding conditions of the Amazon region.
The arrival of the new DHC-6-400s adds to Satena’s current fleet, which includes 13 aircraft: four ATR42-500s, four ATR42-600s, two ATR72-600s and three E145s. It is important to note that all ATR turboprops are leased to Nordic Aviation Capital, which implies resource management aimed at optimizing operations and expanding the airline’s coverage throughout the national territory.
With these developments, Satena not only strengthens its presence in the Colombian market, but also positions itself as a key player in improving regional air connectivity. The investment in new aircraft and the expansion of routes underscore the airline’s commitment to the country’s economic and social development, providing air access to previously underserved areas and facilitating regional growth.
Satena is undergoing a significant transformation phase, with a clear expansion and modernization strategy. The incorporation of the DHC-6-400 aircraft and the opening of new routes represent an important step towards improving air connectivity in Colombia. With these changes, the state-owned airline reinforces its role as a fundamental pillar in the regional development and integration of the country.
2024-07-28 02:00:31
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