Wichita,5th June, 2026:
Designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company, the Cessna SkyCourier has entered service in the Philippines with the first delivery to Leading Edge Air Services Corporation (LEASCOR), expanding passenger and cargo connectivity across the country’s island communities through a versatile, mission-ready turboprop.
The aircraft delivered to LEASCOR, a wholly owned subsidiary of ACDI Multipurpose Cooperative, is a 19‑passenger variant equipped with the optional passenger‑to‑freighter conversion kit. The configuration allows operators to quickly transition between full passenger and full cargo missions, supporting a wide range of domestic transport, tourism and logistics operations.
“Being able to shift seamlessly between passenger and cargo missions is critical for operators serving remote and regional markets,” said Juan Escalante, vice president, SkyCourier Sales. “The Cessna SkyCourier provides a dependable, versatile platform that enables operators to respond quickly to changing transportation needs while maintaining efficiency.”
Engineered for dependable performance in rugged environments, the twin‑engine, high‑wing turboprop combines generous payload capacity with excellent short takeoff and landing performance. Its large cargo door supports efficient loading while fixed landing gear and Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A‑65SC engines contribute to durability and operational confidence across a variety of mission profiles.
LEASCOR was established in 2016 as the air chartering arm of ACDI Multipurpose Cooperative, which serves members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other uniformed personnel, including active service members, retirees, reservists and civilian employees.
“The arrival of our first Cessna SkyCourier marks a defining milestone for Leading Edge Air Services Corporation,” said Maj. Gen. Gilbert S. Llanto, Armed Forces of the Philippines (Ret). “It strengthens our ability to provide reliable air connectivity to communities that depend on consistent passenger and cargo service, particularly in remote areas.”
“With the SkyCourier, we are strengthening our capability to open underserved routes, enhance logistics and support regional economies. It allows us to respond faster, serve farther and operate more efficiently, advancing our goal of helping build a resilient, future ready aviation network for the Philippines.”
– Maj. Gen. Gilbert S. Llanto, Armed Forces of the Philippines (Ret).
“What makes the SkyCourier invaluable is its purpose-built versatility, supported by twin-engine reliability, high payload capacity and the ability to operate on short and unpaved runways. These capabilities enable seamless passenger and cargo operations, even in remote areas.With the SkyCourier, we are strengthening our capability to open underserved routes, enhance logistics and support regional economies. It allows us to respond faster, serve farther and operate more efficiently, advancing our goal of helping build a resilient, future ready aviation network for the Philippines,” said Maj. Gen. Llanto.
