De Havilland Aircraft Canada has announced the launch of the DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G, combined with purchase agreements and letters of intent totalling 45 aircraft.
Jetcraft Commercial, a trader in private and commercial aircraft, was the first to be announced at the Paris Air Show – taking 10 purchase agreements of the 45. Delivery of the aircraft will commence next year.
This is a significant change for Jetcraft Commercial, trading new aircraft, as at present, the company only trades in used aircraft.
When asked why Jetcraft Commercial had ventured into trading new aircraft on a buy, sell or lease basis, its President Raphael Haddad said: “We believe in the aircraft type and the model. The Twin Otter is a very successful aircraft […] we believe it represents the best-in-class commuter aircraft solution. The market for it is strong [with how strongly it appreciates in value], so I think we’re making the right bet here.”
Jetcraft Commercial also made clear its aspirations to trade more regional aircraft. “Our aim is to grow as a lessor specialising between auto leasing and long-term investment in the regional space. This purchase agreement is going to be the start of our next phase in the regional category,” he added.
The Classic 300-G aircraft is the fifth generation of the Twin Otter aircraft. All DHC-6 Twin Otters are used to carry passengers, as well as move cargo, perform medivac operations and transport VIPs. The amphibious floats on the bottom of the craft allow it to move from paved to water landing areas.
It is estimated that the launch of this DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G will create around 80 to 91 permanent production jobs in Calgary, Alberta and Victoria, British Columbia and bolster the local economy.
The Classic 300-G will feature an all-new cabin interior and flight deck, featuring the Garmin G1000 NXi fully integrated avionics suite.
In the words of Brian Chafe, CEO of De Havilland Aircraft Canada, this Twin Otter aircraft will possess “the same rugged airframe, propelled by Pratt & Whitney technology, the lighter weight Classic 300-G will deliver increased payload range and decreased operating costs for our customers.”
“De Havilland Canada continues to shape aviation with innovative utility aircraft, and we are proud to offer our G1000 NXi integrated flight deck with the latest version of the iconic DHC-6 Twin Otter,” added Carl Wolf, Garmin Vice President of Aviation Sales and Marketing.
