Microflite Group will take delivery of two Tecnam P2012 STOLs for Par Avion’s scenic and access flights into Tasmania’s remote south-west.
Microflite Group has ordered two Tecnam P2012 STOL twins for its Par Avion tourism operations in Tasmania, with delivery expected within six months.
The aircraft will fly Par Avion’s services into the Bathurst Harbour region in Tasmania’s south-west wilderness, where short, unsealed strips and rugged terrain have long shaped the choice of aircraft. Tecnam’s Australian representative, Hallmarc Aviation, brokered the deal.
Microflite Group CEO Rodney Higgins said the group had considered every available option before choosing the P2012 STOL.
“For our extended fixed wing services in Tasmania’s remote and rugged terrain and other locations, we looked at all currently available options. The modern and safe P2012 STOL, was the clear winner,” he said.
“Other key factors in our choice of Tecnam were the high quality support and guidance provided by local representative, Hallmarc Aviation, and the short order to delivery time within six months.”
Certified in 2024, the P2012 STOL is an 11-seat, high-wing piston twin built for short runways and demanding environments. It is certified for IFR operations under EASA CS-23 and by the FAA, and is fitted with a Garmin G1000 NXi flight deck and GFC 700 autopilot designed to reduce single-pilot workload.
Tecnam P2012 Sales and Business Development Manager Francesco Sferra said the STOL variant would make one of the world’s great scenic experiences more accessible.
“We are proud to be partnering with Microflite Group to provide a long-term air access solution to the beautiful remote and pristine Bathurst Harbour region, located in the rugged southwest wilderness of Tasmania,” he said.
Hallmarc Aviation CEO Michael Loccisano said the order would bring the number of P2012s in Australia to seven, with more operators in discussions.
“The P2012 is fast becoming Australia’s commuter airliner of choice, with Continental or Lycoming engine options,” he said.
Microflite Group has grown from a single-aircraft charter operation in 2005 into a national group with more than 30 aircraft and more than 175 staff. Its businesses include Microflite Aviation, Par Avion, Airlines of Tasmania and Cambridge Airport.