Calgary, Canada, October 31, 2024 - SATENA, In a milestone event for regional aviation in Colombia, SATENA, the Colombian flag carrier, announced the successful delivery of its first Twin Otter DHC-6 Series 400 aircraft, with registration FAC-1400 and HK-5452-X, in a symbolic ceremony held today in Canada. This aircraft is the first of a fleet of eight destined to improve connectivity in the most remote areas of the country. Major General Óscar Zuluaga, president of SATENA, led the reception of the aircraft, which represents a technological and operational leap for the state-owned airline.

"The arrival of this aircraft strengthens our operation and transforms the way we connect Colombians, improving the lives of thousands of people in remote regions and opening up new economic opportunities," said Major General Zuluaga, highlighting the importance of this addition. The Twin Otter fleet will allow SATENA to increase accessibility and frequency of flights to places with limited infrastructure.

Manufactured by the Canadian company De Havilland, the Twin Otter has a capacity for 19 passengers and is known for its versatility and robustness, allowing it to land on short runways and operate in adverse weather conditions. This aircraft has PBN capabilities, allowing it to fly more direct routes, reducing flight time and fuel consumption. More than 990 Twin Otters in their different versions operate today in the world, belonging to nearly 205 customers, including Armed Forces and airlines.

The aircraft is expected to land in Colombia in the first week of November, with a transfer flight scheduled to depart on Monday, November 4, following the Calgary-Belize-Bogotá route. The crews who will fly this aircraft, mostly composed of military pilots from the Colombian Air Force, have received rigorous training in Calgary, which included advanced Class D simulators, ensuring that operations are carried out under the highest safety standards. "Our pilots and technicians are fully trained to operate the Twin Otter in any condition, which will allow us to continue leading regional connectivity in Colombia," added Zuluaga.

With the incorporation of this new fleet, the airline reaffirms its mission to be the bridge that connects the most remote regions of the country, improving flight frequency and opening new routes that will boost the economic and social development of communities. These aircraft will be responsible for continuing the expansion of SATENA that has been implemented since the beginning of this year, where the Pacific region in the departments of Antioquia, Chocó, Valle del Cauca, Cauca, Huila and Nariño will be prioritized, to later expand coverage to the eastern plains, northern and northeastern regions of the country.

SATENA continues to lead regional connectivity in Colombia, offering a reliable service that reaches the areas that need it most, strengthening its commitment to the country.

About SATENA: SATENA is the state-owned airline of Colombia founded in 1962. Since its inception, it has played a fundamental role in the air connectivity of remote and hard-to-reach regions of the country. Its main objective is to provide air transport services to remote communities, promoting socio-economic development and tourism in these regions. Over the past 62 years, the airline has managed to expand its route network, connecting cities and destinations that were previously unreachable for many. Its commitment is based on reaching where no one else goes, offering essential air connectivity for the development of various activities, such as tourism, commerce and medical care in remote areas.