Bovec, Slovenia-based operator Aviofun has taken delivery of a Cessna CE208 Caravan. “We were looking for an aircraft that has multiple variations for passengers, cargo and skydivers, and arrived at the conclusion that the Caravan is the best option,” says pilot Dominik Cehner. “One of the other options was the Quest Kodiak, but we decided to go with the Caravan.

“We haven't flown with it very much to date, because in our winter season there is not a lot of flying, but still, three of the pilots completed their type ratings on the aircraft and we plan to fully start flying in April. When we have used it, it has been excellent, performing above our expectations.”

Skydiving is Aviofun's main operation at the moment, and it has a pair of Pilatus PC-6s for that purpose, but the Caravan will enable an extension into taxi, cargo and scenic flights around the mountainous Bovec region.

“We are not used to such a modern aircraft,” continues Cehner. “The Caravan has three Garmin G1000s, autopilot, air-conditioning, TKS ice system, weather radar, low-noise props and leather seats. It will greatly improve our operations because with its high cruise speed we can reach new destinations in less time, resulting in lower costs."

Aviofun was established in 2005, and recently sold 50 per cent of its company to a local business man. It now has two owners and has been steadily building its reputation. In the last 12 months it has purchased one PC-6, the Caravan and a new airport. “Our main challenge is to always try to offer something unique, an unforgettable experience and keep our customers satisfied,” explains Cehner. “The business is opening up; as you can see the aviation business is growing fast and we are trying to follow that train to the future.”