De Havilland Canada has officially launched the fifth generation DHC-6 Twin Otter after securing commitments for 45 aircraft.

Dubbed the Classic 300-G the latest iteration of the rugged turboprop is a lighter weight version of the original 300 series, powered by a choice of either Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-27 or PT6A-34 engines and featuring a redesigned cabin interior and updated cockpit with fully integrated Garmin G1000 NXi avionics. The changes reduce the aircraft’s basic weight by up to 500lbs, increasing its payload and/or range.

“For over 50 years, the DHC-6 Twin Otter has stood alone as the most reliable and versatile aircraft in its class,” said Brian Chafe, CEO of De Havilland Canada. “After extensive consultation with our customers, we are poised and proud to take this iconic aircraft to new heights with the new DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G.”

Garmin vice president of aviation sales and marketing, Carl Wolf, added: “We continue to shape aviation with innovative utility aircraft, and we are proud to offer our G1000 NXi integrated flight deck with the latest version of the iconic DHC-6 Twin Otter. It will bring wireless cockpit connectivity, enhanced situational awareness, visual approach capability, and our fully integrated GFC 700 autopilot with envelope protection to the Classic 300-G aircraft.”

The Canadian manufacturer is expected to reveal some of the 45 commitments – consisting of a mixture of purchase agreements and letters of intent – over the course of the Paris Air Show.