VICTORIA, BC, Feb. 2, 2022 /CNW/ – Longview Aviation Capital has announced that De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited will become the operating brand for the companies currently operating as Longview Aviation, Viking Air, Pacific Sky Training and De Havilland Canada, which combined currently support over 1000 aerospace jobs across Canada.
“Our acquisition of the De Havilland Dash-8 program from Bombardier in 2019 united the entire De Havilland product line for the first time in decades, and we are proud to consolidate our aviation assets under the iconic De Havilland banner,” said Longview Aviation Capital owner, Sherry Brydson. “The De Havilland name is globally renowned and carries a reputation for being designed for rugged use, historic innovation and an iconic safety performance record due to high quality Canadian manufacturing and we are we excited about the opportunities ahead of us as a single brand.”
De Havilland Aircraft of Canada has been manufacturing aircraft since 1928 and is known for producing high-quality, long-lasting aircraft that can operate in the world’s toughest climates. With a current fleet of over 3000 aircraft in service around the globe, from the iconic Chipmunk, Beaver and Twin Otter through the Dash 8 series, De Havilland Canada aircraft are responsible for getting people and goods to their destination each day, safely and reliably.
Over the coming weeks, De Havilland Canada will begin integrating the people and operations of Viking Air, Pacific Sky Training and the Longview-named businesses under the De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited brand in order to bring better service and products to our customers through a one-window approach.
In addition to announcing the new organizational structure, De Havilland Canada has also named Brian Chafe as the Chief Executive Officer of the company.
“I am very pleased to announce the appointment of Brian Chafe as the Chief Executive Officer for De Havilland Canada,” said Ms. Brydson. “Brian’s deep experience as a customer-focused leader of a diversified and globally prominent Canadian aerospace company will be invaluable as we continue to build a strong De Havilland Canada for the future.”
Chafe is an experienced executive in the Canadian aerospace industry most recently as Chief Executive Officer of the PAL Group, a diversified global aerospace company active across a range of sectors including aircraft engineering, maintenance & modification, in-service support, special missions, and search & rescue. Under Mr. Chafe’s leadership PAL successfully grew into a number of new product and geographic markets, developed an in-house R&D capacity, and developed into the global leader in maritime surveillance.
“It is a privilege to lead De Havilland Aircraft of Canada into its second century,” said Chafe. “De Havilland Canada’s products are unrivalled in the regional and utility turboprop segment of the industry and that is the product of its talented team of aviation professionals. This foundation is why I am so bullish on our ability to lead the growth of the aerospace sector in Canada as the world economy rebounds from the damage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
About Longview Aviation Capital Corp.
Longview Aviation Capital Corp. was established in 2016 to manage a portfolio of long-term investments in the Canadian aerospace industry, including De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited; Viking Air Ltd.; Pacific Sky Aviation Ltd; Longview Aviation Asset Management Inc; and Longview Aviation Services.
Longview, through its subsidiaries, holds the Type Certificates for the entire product line of the original De Havilland aircraft company including the Twin Otter program and the DHC-1 through DHC-8, as well as the CANADAIR CL-215, CL-215T, and CL-415 aerial firefighting aircraft, and the Shorts Skyvan, 360, 330 and Sherpa family of aircraft. Longview operates manufacturing and aircraft service support in locations across Canada, including Victoria, Calgary and Toronto.
SIDNEY, BC, June 16, 2021 /CNW/ – Longview Aviation Capital Corp., manager of a portfolio of long-term investments in the Canadian aerospace industry including De Havilland Aircraft of Canada and Viking Air Ltd., today announced that David Curtis will be retiring as Executive Chairman, effective August 1, 2021.
David Curtis (CNW Group/Longview Aviation Capital Corp.)
Mr. Curtis began his tenure with Viking in 1983, becoming President and CEO in 1991. Under his leadership, Viking grew to become a prominent global specialty aircraft company, and the only company to successfully re-launch an out-of-production aircraft, bringing the Series 400 Twin Otter back into production in 2010. He was also instrumental in executing the vision to build a leading Canadian aerospace enterprise, including spearheading the acquisitions of the CL-215/415 waterbomber program in 2016, and the Dash 8 aircraft program in 2019, bringing together the entire original product line of the De Havilland aircraft company. Today the combined enterprise operates manufacturing and aircraft service support in locations across Canada, and in addition to the De Havilland Type Certificates also holds the Shorts Skyvan, 360, 330 and Sherpa family of aircraft.
“Dave has been the leader of a great Canadian success story, and leaves behind an amazing legacy in the global aerospace industry,” said Bill Sheffield, speaking on behalf of the Board of Directors of Longview Aviation Capital. “He has overseen the evolution of this business from a small Vancouver Island-based service company into a global leader in specialty and turboprop aircraft, with an iconic portfolio of aircraft, and a stable foundation based on diverse revenue streams. Our aviation business has a bright future, and is well positioned to remain at the forefront of the industry as the world emerges from the effects of the pandemic. On behalf of the Board, and our employees, we thank Dave for his many contributions, and wish him well in his richly deserved retirement.”
“It has been a true privilege to work alongside the women and men who have made, and continue to make, our portfolio what it is,” said Mr. Curtis. “I joined Viking because of my passion for aviation, and I am proud that our companies have contributed to the development of the Canadian aerospace industry. I am most proud that our team has helped demonstrate that with vision, commitment and spirit even small companies working outside the limelight can take on the world and accomplish big things.”
Added Mr. Curtis: “The time is right to turn over leadership to a new generation of visionaries. This organization has all the qualities necessary to lead the post-pandemic industry, including talented people, great assets, and a committed owner with a long-term perspective. With the industry in the midst of a transition, it is an excellent time for renewed leadership with a focus on charting the future for these great aircraft programs.”
As it pursues the opportunities of a transitioning industry, David Riggs will lead the business having been appointed Chief Transformation Officer of the entire aviation enterprise including De Havilland and Viking. Mr. Riggs has served as Chief Transformation Officer of De Havilland since June 2020 and has a long track record in the aviation industry, including consulting to Viking on the restart of production of the Twin Otter. Don Boitson, currently Chief Operating Officer responsible for Western Canada operations, will take on that role for the entire enterprise including the Viking and De Havilland operations, reporting to Mr. Riggs. Todd Young, who has more than 30 years of experience with De Havilland aircraft, will provide additional support as an advisor to the management team. An international search is underway for a new Chief Executive Officer for the combined aviation enterprise. The Board will seek a proven leader to focus on growing the aircraft businesses, founded on a commitment to customer service and a passion for strengthening De Havilland as an anchor of the Canadian aerospace industry. More details on the search will be available in the coming weeks.
About De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited
De Havilland Canada’s portfolio includes support to the worldwide fleet of Dash 8-100/200/300/400 aircraft, as well as production and sales of the Dash 8-400 aircraft. With its low carbon footprint and operating costs, industry-leading passenger experience and jet-like performance, the Dash 8-400 aircraft, which seats up to 90 passengers, is the environmentally responsible choice for operators seeking optimal performance on regional routes. https://dehavilland.com.
About Viking
Viking Air Ltd. is the global leader in utility aircraft services and manufacturer of Series 400 and Guardian 400 Twin Otter aircraft. Viking is the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and Type Certificate holder for all out-of-production De Havilland Canada aircraft and the Canadair Amphibious Aerial Firefighting aircraft fleet. https://www.vikingair.com.
About Longview Aviation Capital Corp.
Longview Aviation Capital Corp. was established in 2016 to manage a portfolio of long-term investments in the Canadian aerospace industry, including De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited; Viking Air Ltd.; Pacific Sky Aviation Ltd; Longview Aviation Asset Management Inc; and Longview Aviation Services. Longview, through its subsidiaries, holds the Type Certificates for the entire product line of the original De Havilland aircraft company including the DHC-1 through DHC-8, as well as the CANADAIR CL-215, CL-215T, and CL-415 aerial firefighting aircraft, and the Shorts Skyvan, 360, 330 and Sherpa family of aircraft. Longview’s subsidiaries operate manufacturing and aircraft service support in locations across Canada, including Victoria, Calgary and Toronto.
Turboprop manufacturer De Havilland Aircraft of Canada was entitled to terminate a Dash 8-400 purchase agreement with Indian carrier SpiceJet after the airline stopped making payments and taking delivery of aircraft, a judge has ruled.
SpiceJet originally ordered 25 of the type from Bombardier – part of a September 2017 agreement for up to 50, the largest single deal for the aircraft type – before the airframer sold the programme to Longview Aviation Capital, which placed it under the De Havilland brand.
De Havilland has pursued a $42.95 million claim against SpiceJet after the airline took, and paid for, the first five aircraft but failed to take delivery of the next three or make pre-delivery payments on either these or 12 subsequent ones.
The airframer served notice terminating the deliveries of all outstanding aircraft and cancelling the purchase agreement.
Source: Bombardier
SpiceJet’s deal for 25 firm and 25 optioned Dash 8-400s was valued at $1.7 billion
SpiceJet had argued that its obligations to make pre-delivery payments on specific aircraft were suspended by agreement between the two sides, under an April 2019 change order.
But De Havilland countered that the change order did not suspend this obligation. It said that only the scheduled delivery months were suspended. SpiceJet claimed the suspension of scheduled delivery months automatically suspended payment liability because the two were linked.
In a 23 February ruling from the High Court in London, the judge says he is “persuaded” by De Havilland’s argument.
“I am satisfied that, although there was an agreement for variation of the [scheduled delivery months], there was no agreement to excuse payment of the invoices in respect of those [pre-delivery payments] which had already accrued due,” he says.
SpiceJet had also tried to defend its failure to take delivery of its sixth, seventh and eighth aircraft by claiming that De Havilland had breached an obligation to provide assistance in arranging finance.
But the judge rejects SpiceJet’s claim that such assistance amounted to working with the airline and its financiers to procure finance, and that any assistance – given that De Havilland had no responsibility to incur expense itself – would have been “very limited”.
De Havilland was “entitled” to terminate deliveries of the sixth, seventh and eighth aircraft, says the ruling, and similarly entitled to terminate all remaining aircraft encompassed by the order.
Focused on enhancing support to the global Dash 8 community as the aviation industry recovers
TORONTO, Feb. 17, 2021 /CNW/ – De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (“De Havilland Canada”) today reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the global Dash 8 operator community and outlined the path forward for the Dash 8 aircraft program. While the pandemic has ravaged the global aviation industry, De Havilland Canada is making future-oriented investments in its organization, systems and infrastructure to enhance the Dash 8 platform for current and future aircraft operators.
“We fully expect worldwide demand for the Dash 8 to return once the industry has recovered from the pandemic, and the aircraft’s characteristics – including low operating costs, low emissions impact, and performance capabilities that support efficient regional operations – will make the Dash 8 an important part of the aviation industry’s post-pandemic recovery,” said David Curtis, Executive Chairman of Longview Aviation Capital, De Havilland Canada’s parent company. “The quality of the aircraft is demonstrated by the fact that we have significantly outperformed our competitors since the onset of the pandemic, delivering 11 aircraft to customers in 2020. While industry conditions remain challenging, we are looking to the future by enhancing our ability to support Dash 8 operators, and taking the necessary organizational steps to ensure we are ready to meet industry demand as the aviation industry recovers.”
Investing in the Dash 8 Platform
De Havilland Canada is introducing enhancements that will ensure the Dash 8 remains at the forefront of the regional aircraft market around the world:
Investing significant capital in the Customer Services and Support team, distribution network and information technology to reduce the operating cost of the Dash 8 platform
Developing upgrades and modifications to the Dash 8, including packages that create a best-in-class freighter with unmatched operating and financial attributes
Introducing cabin refurbishment features such as an overhead bin extension solution which improves the cost-efficiency of in-service Dash 8
Actively innovating across the aircraft platform, including product improvements that will reduce operating and ownership costs and help prepare Dash 8 fleets for the aviation industry’s move to greater sustainability.
In addition to these investments, De Havilland Canada continues to provide 24/7/365 customer support, and inventory over 35,000 part numbers required to serve the operating fleet from parts distribution locations in Canada and around the globe.
New Aircraft Production Pause
Given that prevailing industry circumstances have hindered the ability to confirm new aircraft sales, De Havilland Canada will not produce new Dash 8-400 aircraft at its Downsview site beyond currently confirmed orders. This is a responsible and prudent measure that reflects current industry conditions, and will limit strain on the market and De Havilland Canada’s supply base as the pandemic recovery occurs. Approximately 500 employees will be affected by the production pause.
De Havilland Canada’s objective is to resume new aircraft delivery at the earliest possible time, subject to market demand.
Downsview Production Site
The Downsview production site was sold by the previous owner Bombardier in 2018, with deadlines for the site and runway to be decommissioned. Pursuant to Bombardier’s sale agreement, the Dash 8 program’s current site lease expires in 2021. Accordingly, De Havilland Canada has begun preparing to leave the site over the latter part of the year. There are a number of excellent production site options in Canada, and the company will be ready to meet new aircraft demand as the industry recovers.
Added Mr. Curtis: “The transition from Downsview is a step in the planned evolution of the Dash 8 platform away from its former owner, and is an important part of our vision for Longview Aviation Capital as a leading global aviation company. While this evolution is taking place against the backdrop of unprecedented industry circumstances, we see a bright future for De Havilland Canada and the Dash 8. The Dash 8 is a segment defining aircraft, and it has never been in better hands – strengthened by being part of a robust aviation portfolio with patient long-term ownership. We are also the only company to have successfully re-launched an out-of-production aircraft, with our team bringing the renowned Series 400 Twin Otter back into production. We are fully committed to the Dash 8 and intend to further enhance its capabilities and performance, and remain a leader of the regional aircraft market of the future.
“We are sensitive to the impact that a production pause will have on our employees, and are committed to treating everyone with transparency and respect. This decision is no reflection on the quality of our team, which has performed exceedingly well through the disruptions of the past year.”
Longview Aviation Services (LAS) of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, in cooperation with Viking Air Limited of Victoria, British Columbia, is pleased to announce the first Viking CL-415EAF “Enhanced Aerial Firefighter” has been delivered to launch customer Bridger Aerospace Group (Bridger Aerospace) of Bozeman, Montana, USA.
Bridger Aerospace became the launch customer for the Viking CL-415EAF “Enhanced Aerial Firefighter” program after signing a multiple aircraft purchase agreement in May of 2018. The contract with all options exercised is valued at $204M and covers the sale of six CL-415EAF amphibious aerial firefighting aircraft.
Manufacturer’s serial number (MSN) 1081, the first Canadair CL-215 to undergo the major modification to the EAF “Enhanced Aerial Firefighter” configuration, took its inaugural flight on March 9th, 2020 outside of program-collaborator Cascade Aerospace’s facility in Abbotsford, British Columbia.
After application of Bridger’s livery at International Aerospace Coatings’ facility in Spokane, Washington, MSN 1081 flew over the central Rocky Mountain range to Bozeman, Montana for delivery to Bridger Aerospace in advance of the 2020 North American wildfire season.
Tim Sheehy, founder and CEO of Bridger Aerospace Group, stated, “Aggressive Initial Attack and advanced technology in support of the wildland firefighter are the core of Bridger’s ethos. The Viking CL-415EAF is the most capable initial attack asset on the planet and we are proud to be the launch customer for this incredible capability.”
Robert Mauracher, Executive Vice President Sales & Marketing for Viking, commented, “We are very excited and proud to be delivering our first Viking CL-415EAF Enhanced Aerial Firefighter to Bridger Aerospace in time for the 2020 North American wildfire season. The delivery of our first Enhanced Aerial Firefighter is the culmination of a multi-faceted collaborative project originally launched in 2018 and represents the solid partnership that has developed between Viking, LAS, and Bridger over the past 24 months. We are now looking forward to adding a second aircraft to their fleet in the coming months.”
The CL-415EAF “Enhanced Aerial Firefighter” modification program, announced in 2018 as a collaboration between the two subsidiaries of Longview Aviation Capital, provides an economic boost throughout Western Canada derived from job creation, aerospace manufacturing, innovation, supply chain development, academic partnerships and global export opportunities.
The Viking CL-415EAF modification porgram forms part of a staged approach to utilize advancements made with the LAS converted aircraft as the basis for the proposed next-generation Viking CL-515 new-production aerial firefighting and multi-purpose amphibious aircraft.
About the CL-415EAF “Enhanced Aerial Firefighter”:
The Viking CL-415EAF “Enhanced Aerial Firefighter” is a specially selected CL-215 airframe converted to turbine configuration using Viking-supplied conversion kits. It features a new Collins Pro Line Fusion® integrated digital avionics suite, Pratt & Whitney PW123AF turbine engines, increased fire-retardant capacity, and improvements to numerous aircraft systems.
The Viking CL-415EAF represents the evolution of the type, providing best-in-class water drop performance utilizing the higher delivery 2-door water drop system combined with a zero-timed maintenance program and a “new aircraft” factory-supported warranty program. All obsolete components impacting the worldwide fleet of CL-215 & CL-415 aircraft are replaced in the CL-415EAF, and the upgraded aircraft is designed to failsafe FAR 25 certification criteria with no preset life limit.
The very short scooping distance of the CL-415EAF aircraft is expected to outperform competitors from initial attack to sustained major fire suppression, and the combination of safety and longevity represents exceptional value inherent in purpose-built aerial firefighting amphibious aircraft.
The CL-415EAF aircraft is the only aerial firefighter with factory OEM support offered by Viking’s Customer Service & Product Support division, including management of all Continuing Airworthiness, warranty items, in-service engineering, initial provisioning, as well as offering Viking’s M+ all-inclusive maintenance support program. All improvements and obsolescence issues addressed in the CL-415EAF aircraft will become the new aircraft production standard in the manufacture of an all new, next generation CL-515 multi-purpose amphibious aircraft.
Abbotsford, British Columbia, March 10th, 2020: Longview Aviation Services (LAS) of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, in cooperation with Viking Air Limited of Victoria, British Columbia, is pleased to announce the first Viking CL-415EAF “Enhanced Aerial Firefighter” has taken its inaugural flight at Cascade Aerospace’s facility in Abbotsford, British Columbia.
Manufacturer’s serial number (MSN) 1081 is the first Canadair CL-215 to undergo the major modification to CL-415EAF “Enhanced Aerial Firefighter” configuration by LAS in collaboration with Cascade Aerospace. Cascade was awarded a contract to assist with the CL-415EAF “Enhanced Aerial Firefighter” modification program in 2018 that included carrying out the first aircraft modification using Viking-supplied conversion kits and providing on-site process training to LAS personnel.
This initial CL-415EAF is the first of six amphibious aerial firefighters ordered by launch customer Bridger Aerospace Group (Bridger Aerospace) of Bozeman, Montana and is scheduled for delivery in April in advance of the start of the 2020 North American wildfire season.
Don Boitson, chief operating officer for Longview Aviation Western Operations, commented, “This is a significant milestone for the CL-415EAF Enhanced Aerial Firefighter program that wouldn’t have been possible without the focus, hard work and dedication of the entire team. With the conversion kit manufacturing support from Viking, the technical production expertise of Cascade, and the project management team at LAS, we have collaborated to produce the best-value amphibious firefighting aircraft available on the market today. I’m extremely proud of everyone who has contributed to make this program a success.”
The CL-415EAF “Enhanced Aerial Firefighter” modification program, originally announced in 2018 as a collaboration between the two subsidiaries of Longview Aviation Capital, provides an economic boost throughout Western Canada derived from job creation, aerospace manufacturing innovation, supply chain development, academic partnerships, and global export opportunities.
The Viking CL-415EAF modification program forms part of a staged approach to utilize the advancements made with the LAS converted aircraft as the basis for the proposed nextgeneration Viking CL-515 new-production aerial firefighting and multi-purpose amphibious aircraft.
About the CL-415EAF “Enhanced Aerial Firefighter”:
The Viking CL-415EAF “Enhanced Aerial Firefighter” is a specially selected CL-215 airframe converted to turbine configuration using Viking-supplied conversion kits. It features a new Collins Pro Line Fusion® integrated digital avionics suite, Pratt & Whitney PW123AF turbine engines, increased fire-retardant capacity, and improvements to numerous aircraft systems.
The Viking CL-415EAF represents the evolution of the type, providing best-in-class water drop performance utilizing the higher delivery 2-door water drop system combined with a zero-timed maintenance program and a “new aircraft” factory-supported warranty program. All obsolete components impacting the worldwide fleet of CL-215 & CL-415 aircraft are replaced in the CL415EAF, and the upgraded aircraft is designed to failsafe FAR 25 certification criteria with no preset life limit.
The very short scooping distance of the CL-415EAF aircraft is expected to outperform competitors from initial attack to sustained major fire suppression, and the combination of safety and longevity represents exceptional value inherent in purpose-built aerial firefighting amphibious aircraft.
The CL-415EAF aircraft is the only aerial firefighter with factory OEM support offered by Viking’s Customer Service & Product Support division, including management of all Continuing Airworthiness, warranty items, in-service engineering, initial provisioning, as well as offering Viking’s M+ all-inclusive maintenance support program. All improvements and obsolescence issues addressed in the CL-415EAF aircraft will become the new aircraft production standard in the manufacture of an all new, next generation CL-515 multi-purpose amphibious aircraft.
Contract to deliver six new aircraft in 2024 is a key step towards full production program
PARIS, June 18, 2019 /CNW/ – Longview Aviation Capital (“Longview”) and its subsidiary Viking Air Limited, a global leader of utility aircraft, support and services and manufacturer of the world-renowned Twin Otter, today announced a seven aircraft sales contract for six new-production CL-515 aircraft and one CL-415EAF.
The CL-515 is a newly developed, technically advanced multi-mission aerial firefighting aircraft – the next generation of the CANADAIR CL-415, the aviation industry’s benchmark amphibious aircraft and the backbone of firefighting missions around the globe. With enhanced firefighting capabilities, and the flexibility to support a wide range of critical mission operations, the CL-515 will be a vitally important strategic asset to fleets around the world.
The Republic of Indonesia’s Ministry of Defense has agreed to purchase six all-new CL-515 aircraft, four of which will be delivered in “First Responder” multi-mission configuration, and two delivered in optimized aerial firefighter configuration. The purchase agreement also includes one CANADAIR CL-415EAF “Enhanced Aerial Firefighter” aircraft converted from a CANADAIR CL-215 to EAF standard by Longview Aviation Capital’s subsidiary, Longview Aviation Services.
The Republic of Indonesia’s purchase agreement is a firm commitment that is conditional only on Longview Aviation Capital’s Board of Directors approving the production launch program.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Republic of Indonesia as the first customer for this extraordinary aircraft,” said David Curtis, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Longview Aviation Capital. “This contract is a major milestone in bringing the next generation CANADAIR to market. The confidence of a sovereign government in our program is matched by our own confidence in our ability to deliver this new aircraft platform to the world. We are very well advanced in all aspects of program planning, including our supply chain, and we are nearing a final decision on manufacturing and final assembly sites. We expect to complete the remaining program milestones in the near future, and deliver the first new CL-515 on schedule in 2024.”
Program Development Process
Since acquiring the type certificates for the CANADAIR amphibious aircraft program from Bombardier in 2016, Longviewhas had positive discussions with numerous potential customers from around the world, including both governments and private operators, who have enthusiastically encouraged a production restart.
On the basis of the global interest in the unique and unrivalled capabilities of the CL-515, Longview and Viking have invested in a rigorous process ahead of full production launch decision:
Consulted extensively with current global operators to understand their future aerial firefighting resource requirements
Conducted extensive market research and feasibility studies and developed a new all-season multi-mission platform, leveraging advanced technology not previously included in the CL program
Consulted with key supplier partners
Undertaken advanced supply chain and manufacturing planning, including options associated with Longview’scurrent facilities and potential new facilities in Western Canada
CL-515 Highlights
Up to 15% better aerial firefighting productivity, including increased tank capacity and ability to refill in 14 seconds
State-of-the-art Collins Pro Line Fusion® digital avionics suite for unrivaled situational awareness
Flexible architecture to support multi-mission capabilities including aerial firefighting, maritime patrol, surveillance, medevac, environmental monitoring, insect control, oil spill detection and dispersant
Reduced maintenance and operating costs through improved, scalable avionics and superior design
Unmatched mission efficiency and flexibility, requiring no runway or reloading capacity during waterbombing firefighting
“Indonesia is on the front lines of increasing challenges like forest fires, and as an island nation has extensive needs for a range of amphibious capabilities,” said Air Chief Marshal Yuyu Sutisna, chief of staff for Indonesia’s Air Force. “We have chosen to invest in this aircraft based on the CANADAIR’s solid track record demonstrated around the world over the last 50 years, and Viking’s established capabilities as an aircraft developer and producer. The next generation CL-515 will have unmatched operational performance, particularly as a firefighter. This aircraft has the best productivity of any aerial firefighting aircraft, capable of delivering the highest quantity of foam retardant per day, while at the same time providing the flexibility to save lives and protect our coastal areas through its multi-role SAR and Maritime Surveillance functionalities. We are proud to sign the first contract for this extraordinary aircraft that will enhance our mission capability at excellent value.”
About the CL- 515 “First Responder” Multi-Role Amphibious Aircraft
Building on the pedigree of the CANADAIR CL-415, the CL-515 “First Responder” is the next generation of purpose-built aerial firefighter and multi-role amphibious aircraft. Through the incorporation of new technology and the integration of the state-of-the-art Collins Pro Line Fusion® digital avionics suite, the 515 provides operators with world class reliability, enhanced safety, and unrivaled situational awareness.
The significant global interest in the aircraft is underscored by the increasing worldwide frequency and severity of wildfires as a result of climate change. As truly amphibious aircraft, the CANADAIR CL-415 and the CL-515 are able to refill with water while flying, as well as mix retardant in flight. Requiring no runway to reload water, the aircraft is able to make more frequent waterbombing missions, particularly in remote or difficult to access areas.
The FAR/Part 25-certified Collins Pro Line Fusion® avionics suite is a scalable software-based system that addresses current regulatory requirements while anticipating future expansion. The core avionics configuration features Flight Director, Flight Management System (FMS) coupled with SBAS-GPS and LPV capability, Terrain Awareness Warning System (TAWS), ADS-B Out, Synthetic Vision, crew alerting system display indicators, and a multi-functional keyboard panel with dual cursor controls.
The new-production CL-515 offers exceptional aerial firefighting capabilities offering up to a 15% increase in productivity while reducing maintenance and operating costs. Its expanded tank capacity (7,000 L) and ability to refill in 14 seconds from water sources in close proximity to wildfires allows the CL-515 to drop enormous amounts of foam-injected fire retardant on a continuous basis.
As a true multi-mission platform, the CL-515 First Responder’s flexible architecture allows integration of mission equipment for a variety of roles in a single airframe, including aerial firefighting, maritime patrol, surveillance, medevac, environmental monitoring, insect control, oil spill detection and dispersant.
The CL-515 is the only aerial firefighter and multi-mission amphibious aircraft built and supported by an OEM with complete full factory warranty, established world-class product support network, and factory-endorsed Full Motion Level D Flight Simulator, making it the most technically advanced multi-mission aerial firefighting aircraft available on the market.
Added Mr. Curtis: “Our plans for the CL-515 build on our successful track record as an aircraft OEM. Our team conceived and developed the world-renowned Viking Series 400 Twin Otter, and to-date we have sold and delivered new aircraft to operators in 31 countries around the world. Longview and Viking have earned a reputation as the world leader in utility aircraft, and we have every confidence in our company’s ability to efficiently produce a multi-role aircraft that will set a new global standard for amphibious operations.”
In addition to Viking, Longview Aviation Capital includes De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited, OEM of the worldwide Dash 8 aircraft program including the 100, 200 and 300 series and the in-production Dash 8 Series 400 program manufactured in Ontario.
Provided byDe Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited/CNW
PARIS, June 18, 2019 /CNW/ – The iconic De Havilland aviation brand is continuing its return to global prominence at the Paris Air Show. In a ceremony at the event, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited formally received the Type Certificates for the entire Dash 8 aircraft program, including the 100, 200 and 300 series and the in-production 400.
Commented David Curtis, Chairman, Longview Aviation Capital, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada’s parent company:
David Curtis, Chairman and CEO Longview Aviation Capital, the Honourable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport, and Todd Young, Chief Operating Officer, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada celebrate De Havilland Canada formally receiving the Type Certificates for the entire Dash 8 aircraft program. (CNW Group/De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited)
“We have great ambitions for the Dash 8 program and are excited to begin the next phase for this aircraft under a new company name that recalls some of the greatest innovations in aviation history. There have always been echoes of the De Havilland brand in the ‘DHC’ type names of many current aircraft, and we are pleased to re-energize the name and to re-introduce De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited as an operating company. We will be focusing on the cost competitiveness of these aircraft across the lifespan, from production to parts and in-service support. The heart of the Longview Aviation Capital business has been superior in-service support, and we intend to apply that expertise to this aircraft program. In the months ahead we will be investing in this part of the business, in our inventory operations and supply chain processes – all with the aim of positioning us to better serve our customers.”
Added Todd Young, Chief Operating Officer, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited:
“The Dash 8 turboprop program has momentum, including the introduction last fall of the new 90-seat configuration of the 400 series. The aircraft fits well into the fleets of operators seeking to capitalize on increasing regional demand, providing strong per-unit economics. There is a solid existing order book and we will continue to aggressively market the aircraft while working with current operators to ensure the in-service worldwide fleet performs effectively. Our team is delighted to become De Havilland Aircraft of Canada, and we look forward to writing the next chapter of this storied brand.”
Attending the Paris Air Show was the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development. “Canada continues to punch above its weight in the global aerospace industry, and the return of De Havilland Aircraft of Canada as an operating company connects the dynamism of today’s industry to a rich heritage,” said Minister Bains. “I am pleased to see the continuation of the Dash 8’s legacy in Canada, congratulate Longview Aviation Capital for building such a significant Canadian aviation success, and look forward to the creation of more well-paid and highly-skilled jobs in this key sector of our economy.”
The Type Certificate ceremony follows the launch of De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited on June 3, 2019 with the completion of the transaction through which Longview Aviation Capital acquired the entire Dash 8 program including the 100, 200 and 300 series and the in-production 400 program. The Dash 8 joins Longview’s comprehensive portfolio of aircraft programs, including the Twin Otter program and the DHC-1 through DHC-7 series, as well as the former Canadair CL-215, CL-215T, and CL-415 waterbomber aircraft.
Longview Aviation Capital and De Havilland Aircraft Canada Limited are the result of the vision and determination of owners Sherry Brydson and Rob McDonald.
Significant progress announcements expected across range of aircraft programs
VICTORIA, CALGARY and TORONTO, June 13, 2019 /CNW/ – Longview Aviation Capital (“Longview”), manager of a portfolio of long-term investments in the Canadian aerospace industry, will have a robust presence at the 2019 Paris Air Show – the world’s foremost event for the aviation industry – running June 17-20 in Paris, France.
Building on the momentum of the recent launch of De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited – the trade name of the subsidiary company that will operate the worldwide Dash 8 aircraft business including the 100, 200 and 300 series and the in-production 400 program – during the show Longview will showcase its range of in-demand passenger and utility aircraft, and discuss developments from across its portfolio.
De Havilland Canada and Viking Air Ltd. will each host media events during the show, as well as issue news announcements. In particular, Longview and Viking expect to make a significant progress announcement regarding the CL-515, a newly developed, technically advanced multi-mission aerial firefighting aircraft.
Longview’s presence at the Air Show will be based at Chalet A238, hosting exhibits from both De Havilland Canada and Viking. In addition, two aircraft will be on static display:
All-new Guardian 400 – the special missions variant of the Viking Series 400 Twin Otter. Viking will demonstrate a simulation of the aircraft’s capabilities including the sensor package within the SCAR (Self Contained Aerial Reconnaissance) Pod.
Dash 8-400 in 90-seat configuration – first delivered to launch operator SpiceJet in September 2018, the 90-seater highlights De Havilland Canada’s commitment to evolving the program to meet customer needs.
Canadian Aviation News 
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