Viking Air soars with large order from ME firm

June 17, 2009
General Aviation

Canada’s Viking Air has sold 10 of its Twin Otter Series 400 turboprops to Global Aerospace Logistics of Abu Dhabi. The agreement, which represents the largest order to date, calls for delivery of six landplane-configured DHC-6 Series 400s and four Guardian Twin Otter floatplanes, slated for use throughout the United Arab Emirates in both government and commercial applications.

The deal includes special-order options for upgraded PT6A-35 hot-and-high-performance engines, float landing gear installations, interchangable VIP/high-density interiors, tactical avionics and sensor packages, along with a support package of spares, ground support equipment and flight/technical ground crew training. If exercised, the options could push the value of the deal past $65 million.

Viking plans to deliver the first airplane early next year, then fulfill the rest of the order in 2011 and 2012. The contract calls for the first four aircraft to come equipped with Guardian 400 options, including an electro-optical and infrared imaging turret equipped with a low-light camera and digital recorder, NVG-compatible flight deck, air conditioning, air operable cargo door and a lavatory.

Meanwhile, Global Aerospace Logistics (GAL) has also signed a contract with Viking to serve as the airplane’s exclusive sales representative for the Middle East region and Algeria. The deal allows GAL to represent Viking for Twin Otter aircraft sales and spares support in Afghanistan, Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen.

In related news, Viking Air has received transport supplemental type approval for the installation of the 750-shp Pratt & Whitney PT6A-34 and -35 turboprop in the de Havilland Canada DHC-3 Otter, for which Viking is the OEM. As well as installing the turboprop and its three-blade Hartzell reversible propeller, Viking has designed new composite cowls and raised gross weight to 9,000 pounds. Optional modifications include panoramic cabin windows and extended-range tank. The Viking Turbine Otter is certified to the latest FAR Part 23 standards, and is approved for day/night VFR/IFR operations on wheels, skis, floats or amphibious landing gear.  

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