Glenorchy Air to Launch Tecnam P2012 Traveller in New Zealand

This article is based on an official press release from Tecnam Aircraft.

Italian aircraft manufacturer Tecnam has announced that Queenstown-based Glenorchy Air will become the launch customer for the Tecnam P2012 Traveller in New Zealand. According to an official press release from the company, the acquisition follows the recent validation of the P2012 by the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA).

The addition of the Continental-powered twin-engine aircraft marks a significant fleet expansion for the scenic flight operator. The new aircraft will enable Glenorchy Air to enter the Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) charter market while continuing to serve its popular scenic routes.

Coinciding with the fleet expansion, the operator is launching a new brand, Queenstown Air Charter, which will provide nationwide Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and IFR charter services across New Zealand.

Expanding Capabilities and Fleet

Glenorchy Air, a subsidiary of Stokes Aviation established in 1992, currently operates a mix of single-engine turboprop and piston aircraft. The operator is well-known for its scenic flights over Milford Sound, Mount Cook, and Stewart Island. The upcoming delivery of the P2012 Traveller, scheduled for mid-2026, will introduce twin-engine reliability and increased passenger capacity to their operations.

The P2012 Traveller features a spacious cabin, premium seating, and large panoramic windows, which Tecnam notes in its release are ideal for the breathtaking scenic flights that Glenorchy Air provides. The aircraft’s versatility allows it to be highly deployable across both tourism and dedicated charter missions.

Leadership Perspectives

Executives from both companies expressed optimism about the partnership and the aircraft’s debut in the New Zealand market. James Stokes, CEO of Glenorchy Air, highlighted the strategic timing of the acquisition ahead of the upcoming summer season.

“Glenorchy Air is very excited to debut the Tecnam P2012 in New Zealand and use it to expand our capacity and capability into the 2026/27 summer season and beyond. Our management pilots and I viewed the aircraft at Oshkosh 2025, and we were extremely impressed with its passenger comfort and legroom, cockpit ergonomics, and beautiful Italian styling,” Stokes stated in the press release.

Francesco Sferra, Tecnam’s P2012 & Special Mission Platforms Sales Manager, emphasized the alignment between the aircraft’s design and the operator’s premium service model.

“We are incredibly proud to see the P2012 Traveller making its debut in the spectacular skies of New Zealand. Glenorchy Air’s dedication to providing a premium, award-winning passenger experience aligns perfectly with the DNA of the P2012,” Sferra noted in the company statement.

AirPro News analysis

The introduction of the Tecnam P2012 Traveller to the New Zealand market represents a logical step for regional operators looking to bridge the gap between scenic tourism and reliable, all-weather charter services. By securing CAA validation, Tecnam has opened the door for further expansion in the Oceania region.

For Glenorchy Air, the launch of the Queenstown Air Charter brand indicates a strategic pivot toward year-round, nationwide operations. Relying on the IFR capabilities of the P2012 allows the company to mitigate the weather-related disruptions that frequently impact VFR-only scenic flights in New Zealand’s mountainous terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will Glenorchy Air receive the Tecnam P2012 Traveller?

According to the press release, the aircraft is on order for delivery in mid-2026.

What is Queenstown Air Charter?

Queenstown Air Charter is a newly launched brand by Glenorchy Air that will offer nationwide VFR and IFR charter services across New Zealand.

Has the Tecnam P2012 been approved for use in New Zealand?

Yes, the Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand (CAA) officially validated the P2012 last month, clearing the way for its operation in the country.

Sources

• Tecnam Aircraft