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Longview launches De Havilland Aircraft of Canada

Longview Aviation Capital Corp. on June 3 launched De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited, as the subsidiary company that will operate the worldwide Dash 8 aircraft business. The launch comes with the formal completion of the transaction through which Longview acquired the entire Dash 8 program including the 100, 200 and 300 series and the in-production Q400 program from Bombardier Inc.

The Dash 8 joins Longview’s 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. De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited has obtained all regulatory approvals from Transport Canada and relevant competition authorities.

“We are thrilled to assume responsibility for this exceptional aircraft program, and welcome the more than 1,200 professionals that are joining De Havilland Aircraft of Canada from Bombardier,” said David Curtis, chairman, Longview Aviation Capital. “We aim to enhance the tradition of excellence around this aircraft by ensuring we continue to evolve to meet the needs of our customers, with a focus on the cost competitiveness of these aircraft across the lifespan, from production to parts and in-service support.”

Curtis continues to describe the company’s pride in its efforts to return the De Havilland Canada brand to prominence in the global aerospace industry. “The iconic De Havilland name dates back almost 100 years, and is responsible for some of the most renowned aircraft in aviation history,” he said. “The combination of the Dash 8 with the existing Longview Aviation Capital portfolio unites the entire De Havilland product line under the same banner for the first time in decades. With a new corporate identity that draws on the rich brand heritage, we are excited about the opportunities we see ahead for this company, and for the Dash 8 aircraft.”

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited will continue to produce, service and support Dash 8 and Q400 aircraft from the Downsview site in Toronto under land lease agreements which extend until 2023. Todd Young, a 30-year veteran of Bombardier who most recently was responsible for the Q-Series program, will lead the business as Chief Operating Officer. Nearly all of the previous Downsview workforce, and all existing union agreements, have transitioned to De Havilland Aircraft of Canada.

“We are excited to begin the next chapter for this aircraft program and to share the De Havilland Aircraft of Canada brand with the world,” said Young. “Our team at Downsview is engaged and motivated, and we look forward to working with our customers, suppliers and industry partners to maintain the Dash 8 turboprop’s position as one of the world’s most important commercial aircraft.”