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The first new build Viking Air Series 400 Twin Otter made its first flight from the company’s Calgary production facility on February 16.
The aircraft, which is registered C-FMJO and carries MSN845, took an initial 10 minute test flight which saw it then land at Calgary International Airport. Compared to the previous series 300 aircraft, the 400 features a Honeywell Primus Apex digital avionics suite and Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-34 turbines, with the first prototype (modified from a DHC-6-300) previously making its first flight in October 2008.
“Flying the first new Twin Otter in 22 years is the culmination of many months of hard work and determination by our staff and supply chain partners,” commented Viking Air CEO David Curtis.
Type certification from Transport Canada is expected soon, which will open the way for delivery of the first aircraft to launch customer Zimex Aviation in Switzerland. Ten aircraft are currently in various stages of final assembly, and Viking says that it aims to reach a production goal of one and a half aircraft every month.
Locally, Perth based business aviation operator AvWest has been identified as a customer for the Series 400, while other orders have come from operators around the world.
