Casa Aviocar

Twin Turboprop· 36 globally registered

The CASA C-212 Aviocar is a rugged twin-turboprop utility transport designed by Spain's Construcciones Aeronáuticas SA in the late 1960s for short-haul cargo, passenger, and special-mission work. First flown in 1971, the type was built to operate from unprepared strips and austere environments, with a high wing, fixed tricycle gear, and a rear cargo ramp that made it ideal for humanitarian airlift, parachute operations, and remote resupply. Over 470 were built across multiple series (C-212-100 through -400), and the design was license-produced in Indonesia by IPTN. Though originally developed for the Spanish Air Force, the Aviocar found a substantial civilian niche with aid organizations, charter operators, and regional carriers needing a tough, go-anywhere airlifter. Powered by two Garrett TPE331 turboprops (750-925 shp depending on variant), the C-212 cruises around 150 knots and can carry up to 26 passengers or 5,700 pounds of cargo. Its short-field performance (takeoff in under 2,000 feet and landing in less than 1,500) makes it a favorite for bush operations and island-hopping routes where pavement is optional. Maximum operating speed is 180 knots IAS, with approach speeds around 90 knots and stall in landing configuration at 67 knots. The type's boxy fuselage and unpressurized cabin limit comfort on longer legs, but reliability and maintainability in harsh conditions have kept many airframes flying decades after manufacture. The Aviocar remains in service worldwide, from military patrol and maritime surveillance to civilian freight and humanitarian missions. Operators value its simplicity, load-carrying versatility, and ability to land on grass, gravel, or dirt without ground support equipment. SkyMeter has tracked 98 flights across 16 airframes and 12 operators, with HORIZON AIRE LLC the largest observed operator.