De Havilland Canada launches the DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G

By Skies Magazine | June 19, 2023

On the opening day of this year’s Paris Air Show, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited announced the launch of the DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G, with combined purchase agreements and letters of intent for a total of 45 aircraft. The Classic 300-G represents the fifth generation of the Twin Otter aircraft, joining the current Series 400.

According to Brian Chafe, CEO of De Havilland Canada (DHC), the DHC-6 Twin Otter has been renowned as the “most reliable and versatile aircraft in its class” for over 50 years. After extensive consultations with its customers, DHC is taking the iconic Twin Otter aircraft to new heights with the introduction of the Classic 300-G.

The new aircraft retains the same robust airframe with Pratt & Whitney PT6A-27 engines. However, the Classic 300-G offers a second engine option, the PT6A-34, for extreme operations and challenging environments. DHC has managed to reduce the weight of the new aircraft by 400 to 500 pounds, resulting in increased payload range and reduced operating costs for customers. Additionally, the OEM said the aircraft boasts more robust systems with longer service life and extended time between overhauls.

Alongside these improvements, the aircraft has an entirely new cabin interior utilizing new, durable materials with reduced part count. There are a variety of cabin configuration options, including passenger, cargo, quick change, dual-class, VIP, paratroop, and special mission.

Moreover, the Classic 300-G — designed for dual or single pilot operations — features a new flight deck equipped with the Garmin G1000 NXi fully integrated avionics suite, which provides wireless cockpit connectivity, enhanced situational awareness, visual approach capability, and the fully integrated GFC 700 autopilot with envelope protection.

The Classic 300-G is available with a variety of landing gear configurations, including amphibious floats, floats, wheel skis, intermediate flotation gear, and standard wheel configuration.

In the standard wheel configuration, the Twin Otter Classic 300-G has a maximum take-off weight of 12,500 lb, a max cruise speed (sea level) of 170 knots, and a max range (full fuel and 2,270 lb of payload) of 714 nautical miles.

As DHC continues to expand its presence in the Canadian aerospace industry, the introduction of the DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G will have a positive impact on the local economy. The launch of the aircraft is expected to create 80 permanent production jobs in Calgary, Alberta, and 91 in Victoria, British Columbia, the company said.

In an email to Skies, DHC spokesperson John Paul Fraser said the company does not plan to replace the Twin Otter Series 400 with the Classic 300-G version. Rather, “we will continue to produce the Series 400 should customers wish to purchase that version of the Twin Otter,” he said.

During the Paris Air Show, DHC plans to announce purchase agreements with its Twin Otter Classic 300-G launch customers.

Find more details about the DHC-6 Classic 300-G here.