Twin Otter Classic 300-G receives EASA certification, already flying with Zimex
De Havilland Canada announced on 22 July 2026 at Farnborough that its Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft has received certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The certification opens the way for deliveries of the type to operators in Europe and other regions that recognise EASA approval, and the first aircraft certified under this standard is already flying with Switzerland's Zimex Aviation.
- Type
- Twin Otter Classic 300-G
- Certification
- EASA
- Announcement date
- 22 July 2026
- Announcement location
- Farnborough, United Kingdom
- First operator
- Zimex Aviation
- Operator headquarters
- Switzerland
According to De Havilland Canada, the European certification marks another milestone for the new-generation Twin Otter programme, and the first certified aircraft has entered service with Switzerland's Zimex Aviation, a long-time operator of the type, which has thus become the launch customer for the EASA-certified Classic 300-G version.
According to the manufacturer, the Twin Otter Classic 300-G builds on more than fifty years of operational experience with the Twin Otter type while introducing modernisation features focused on reliability, maintenance and operational capability. The aircraft is equipped with the integrated Garmin G1000 NXi avionics system, has updated systems, a lower empty weight and manufacturer support. At the same time, it retains the short takeoff and landing (STOL) capability and ruggedness that De Havilland Canada says have earned the Twin Otter a reputation as one of the most trusted utility aircraft in the world.
Statements from company representatives
- Ryan DeBrusk, Vice President of Sales at De Havilland Canada, said the Twin Otter earned its reputation through reliable operation in some of the world's most demanding environments, and that EASA certification is an important milestone for the Classic 300-G, expanding opportunities for operators in Europe and beyond. He added the company is pleased the first certified aircraft is already flying with Zimex Aviation, which he said proves the aircraft has delivered on its promise from day one.
- Daniele Cereghetti, CEO of Zimex Aviation, said the Twin Otter has long been an important part of his company's fleet, and that the Classic 300-G version builds on everything the company values about the aircraft while adding modern technology and greater efficiency. He said the company looks forward to deploying the aircraft in the service of customers around the world.
According to De Havilland Canada, the aircraft at Zimex Aviation supports the company's global operations, which include humanitarian aid, support for government contracts, cargo transport and special missions in remote and demanding environments.
The company describes the EASA certification as building on the successful market launch of the Twin Otter Classic 300-G to date, and as a further step towards expanding its availability to operators seeking a proven modern utility aircraft capable of serving remote communities, commercial companies, governments and special-mission customers worldwide.
In the company profile accompanying the press release, De Havilland Canada presents itself as a manufacturer carrying forward a long tradition of the Canadian aerospace industry, with a fleet of over 5,000 delivered aircraft operated around the world, which the company says are deployed in roles including wildfire suppression, search and rescue operations, air ambulance transport and survey missions.