Tanzanian airline Sindbard Air has secured an Embraer EMB-120ER(FC) Brasilia aircraft for cargo operations, strengthening its freight capabilities. The aircraft, registered as N510KT and bearing serial number 120117, is intended to support the operator’s on-demand charter activities.

According to information published by NewsAero on October 20, 2026, the aircraft was assigned to the airline on October 14. Previously based in Fort Pierce, Florida, it is expected to join Sindbard Air’s operations in Zanzibar, where the company maintains part of its operational base.

Originally built in Brazil as an EMB-120RT, the aircraft was converted to a freighter configuration in April 2005. The modification included a reinforced floor and a cargo door designed to facilitate freight handling.

The aircraft has an extensive operational history. Delivered to Comair in February 1989 in a 30-seat passenger configuration, it was later operated by SkyWest Airlines under the United Express brand before serving other operators.

The acquisition comes as Sindbard Air continues to consolidate its operations following several incidents involving aircraft of the same type. In November 2023, an EMB-120 operated by the airline was destroyed following a nose landing gear collapse and runway excursion at Kikoboga airstrip. More recently, on October 4, 2026, another aircraft struck a zebra during takeoff at Seronera, in Serengeti National Park, before diverting to Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Holding an Air Operator Certificate issued by the Tanzania Civil Aviation Authority, Sindbard Air operates non-scheduled flights between Zanzibar and several airstrips serving safari destinations on the mainland. The addition of the EMB-120 freighter could help the airline expand its cargo operations and improve its ability to transport supplies to remote destinations.

Source: NewsAero, “Sindbard Air Secures an Embraer EMB-120(FC),” October 20, 2026.

https://www.newsaero.info/fr/article/compagnies/sindbard-air-securise-un-embraer-emb-120fc