The backbone of missionary aviation has long been the Cessna 206 "Stationair." The 206 is a reliable, capable aircraft. It is able to carry up to five passengers and close to 1100 pounds of freight. Our modified 206's include a STOL kit, oversized tires, and a cargo pod. They can easily operate on short, unimproved airstrips in the bush - gravel, dirt, grass, and even lava rock. Cruise speed is 130 mph and the practical range is over 240 miles with a full load
The Cessna 210 "Centurion" is a faster cousin of the 206. The Centurion has retractable landing gear and a sleeker profile than the 206. It too is a five passenger aircraft capable of carrying 1100 pounds of cargo or people. Although not as easily loaded as the 206 and not as capable on rough strips, the 210 cruises at 165 mph shortening long trips and providing extended range.
The Amphibious Cessna 185 "Skywagaon" is equipped with a 350 hp Lycoming TSIO-540 engine, a Robertson STOL kit, a Sportsman leading edge cuff, an ART wing extension (which gives an increased gross weight,) and Wipair 3730 amphibious floats. It is perfectly suited for the unique environment of Lake Victoria (its size, altitude and temperatures.) This six seater can operate from lake or land and has a special niche in AIM AIR's minstry to the peoples on and around Lake Victoria.
Our most versatile aircraft is the Cessna 208 Grand Caravan. The 208 is a single engine turboprop outfitted for short, rough airstrips. It can even outperform the "bush flying" capabilities of the 206. This all-weather aircraft can haul up to 2600 pounds of cargo, or up to 13 passengers and practically anything we can fit through the large cargo doors in the rear. The Caravan is quickly becoming the airplane of choice for missionary aviation worldwide, and it is the most heavily booked airplane at AIM AIR.
Perhaps one of the most tried and true airplanes ever built for the skies is the DC-3. Built in large quantities in the late 1930's and 40's, the turbo-conversion DC-3 has evolved with the times, shedding the heavy and cumbersome R-1820 radial engines for lighter and more reliable Prat & Whitney turboprop engines. AIM AIR's DC-3 is owned by Samaritans Purse, and jointly operated here in East Africa. It has been stretched and lightened for service. It seats up to 26 passengers, and quickly converts to carry up to 4 tons of freight. Cruise speed is 220 mph, and the airplane is also quite capable on Africa's bush