Bighorn Airways Expands Fleet with First DHC-8-200 Acquisition

Bighorn Airways (BHR), based in Sheridan, US, has bolstered its fleet by acquiring its first De Havilland DHC-8-200 aircraft. The newly acquired turboprop, registered as N359PH (msn 514), was previously operated by CommutAir on behalf of United Airlines (UA) and marks Bighorn Airways’ entry into the DHC-8-200 segment.

The DHC-8-200, a 25.6-year-old aircraft, had been retired by CommutAir in 2018 as part of the regional capacity provider’s transition to jet operations. After a period of prolonged storage, the aircraft was registered to Bighorn Airways on September 21, 2023, and subsequently ferried from Oklahoma City Wiley Post to Sheridan on September 23, 2023.

Bighorn Airways, known for its passenger charter services in Wyoming, operates a diverse fleet that includes three DHC-8-100s, one DHC-8-Q200, five Do228-200s, four CN-212s, and two Air Tractors AT-402s, along with several smaller aircraft. While the airline has not disclosed specific plans for its newly acquired DHC-8-200, the addition underscores its commitment to fleet diversity and potential expansion into regional turboprop operations.

The acquisition aligns with Bighorn Airways’ strategy to offer versatile and tailored air services, particularly in the regional and charter segments. The DHC-8-200’s capabilities make it well-suited for various mission profiles, including passenger transport, cargo services, and specialized charter operations.

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(Note: The information provided is based on available reports and publicly accessible sources as of the knowledge cutoff date in January 2022.)