De Havilland Aircraft have announced that it will design weight increases and cabin enhancements, which include an industry first OEM collaboration with SpaceX’s Starlink to enable high speed broadband on its aircraft.
“Our solutions offer our operators many opportunities to increase operational flexibility and to provide a passenger experience that is equivalent to that on new production aircraft. In addition, our design weight increases for the Dash 8-400 aircraft will allow operators to meet the increasing passenger weight allowance requirements mandated by Transport Canada, the FAA and various other aviation authorities, without any impact on revenue,” said Jean-Philippe Côté, Vice President, Programs, De Havilland Canada.
The proposed design weight increases with provide an increase of up to 1360kg in payload, and add an extra 907kg to the maximum take-off weight of the Dash 8-400. An increase of 295kg is also being developed in the aft baggage compartment, for operators who need additional baggage weight carrying capabilities. Offered in multiple standard categories, these weight increases can also be customised by De Havilland Canada to meet the specific needs of an operator. This increased fuel tankering also gives operators greater operational flexibility and cost optimisation.
For cabin interiors, De Havilland Canada is introducing a new set of features to enhance passenger appeal, providing functionality and flexibility. These features include:
- Satellite-based Internet Connectivity from Starlink enables high speed, low latency broadband internet worldwide, providing passengers with a premier internet experience not available from any other satellite or air-to-ground system.
- Wireless In-flight Entertainment (IFE) System that provides passengers with wireless access to a wide variety of content on their personal electronic devices. The single-line replaceable unit that can be installed in the overhead bins, offers reduced weight and maintenance compared to a seat-back IFE solution. The unit can be powered by batteries or by aircraft power.
- USB In-Seat Power at all passenger seat locations. The system doesn’t impact passenger leg room and is compatible with any seat type.
- An Overhead Bin Extension Solution for earlier models of Dash 8-400 aircraft. This cost-efficient and environmentally friendly solution provides additional stowage volume in the Dash 8 aircraft’s cabin and is the perfect solution to meet growing passenger requirements for more baggage space.
- Pictorial illuminated signage that aligns with signage in airport facilities and facilitates the remarketing of aircraft by eliminating the need for signage translations.
- Upgraded interior décor that includes soft materials in the cabin (carpets, dado panels, bulkheads, seat dress covers etc.)
- For earlier models of Dash 8-400 aircraft, brighter LED cabin lighting that will provide a cool, dimmable lighting system along ceiling panels, and under the bins, as well as adjustable PSU reading lights.
