De Havilland Canada unveiled the latest version of the iconic Twin Otter utility aircraft at the Salon International de l’Aéronautique et de l’Espace (SIAE – Paris Air Show) in Paris this week.
The Twin Otter Classic 300-G is yet to be fully-certified, and is an upgraded version of the traditional Twin Otter that features Garmin 1000 NXi avionics, improved interior and a reduction in basic empty weight.
"This aircraft is a testament to De Havilland Canada’s continued investment in innovation and our commitment to supporting our global customers with efficient, modern, and dependable solutions,” said De Havilland Canada CEO Brian Chafe.
“We are thrilled to present the 300-G here at SIAE and even more pleased to see it enter service with Zimex Aviation, a trusted partner with deep experience in diverse and challenging environments.”
De Havilland is offering the Twin Otter 300-G with either 680- or 750 SHP PT6A engines, which gives the new variant a max cruise speed at 5000 feet of 181 KTAS, a maximum payload of 1963 kg (over 100 nm) and a zero-payload range of 871 nm.
Other upgrades include redesigned passenger interfaces, new cabin window bezels that allow more light to fill the cabin and seats that are 15% lighter, come with e-leather upholstery as standard and include a fold-flat backrest.
De Havilland believes these improvements will enable operators to transport more passengers or cargo per flight.
A development of the radial-powered, single-engined DHC-3 Otter, the DHC-6 entered service in 1966 and De Havilland built nearly 850 by the time production ceased in 1988. Manufacturing re-commenced in 2007 as the Viking 400, with the original Twin Otter branding restored last year.
The airframe at Paris is Twin Otter number 998, with the 1000th aircraft due for delivery later this year.