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De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter

The De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter is a Canadian twin-engine turboprop utility aircraft designed for short takeoff and landing (STOL) operations.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter is a Canadian twin-engine turboprop utility aircraft designed for short takeoff and landing (STOL) operations. Introduced in 1965, it is known for operating from short, unimproved, and remote airstrips and for its use in passenger, cargo, and medevac roles. The aircraft is one of Canada’s best-known designs and a notable example of Canadian aerospace engineering.

Development and production

The DHC-6 Twin Otter was developed by de Havilland Canada in the mid-1960s and first flew on 20 May 1965. Original production continued until 1988, after which later production resumed in the 2000s under successor companies, including Viking Air and De Havilland Canada.

Design and capabilities

The aircraft is a twin-engine turboprop with fixed undercarriage and STOL performance, making it suitable for short or unprepared runways. It can also be fitted with floats or skis for operations in remote regions. The Twin Otter can be configured with wheel, ski, float, or amphibious float landing gear.

Operational use

The Twin Otter has been used as a commuter airliner, cargo aircraft, medevac platform, and special-missions aircraft. Its versatility and rugged design have made it popular in remote and harsh environments, including northern Canada and other challenging regions worldwide.

Later variants

Later versions include the Series 400 and the 300-G, which adds updated Garmin avionics. These variants continue the type’s role as a modern utility aircraft, with production ongoing.

Key facts

  • The Twin Otter was developed in the mid-1960s as a STOL utility aircraft.
  • It has fixed landing gear and twin turboprop engines, which support short-field performance.
  • The aircraft is commonly used for commuter passenger service, cargo transport, and medical evacuation.
  • It can be configured with wheel, ski, float, or amphibious float landing gear.
  • Original production ran from 1965 to 1988, and later production resumed under Viking Air/De Havilland Canada.
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Canadian context

It is one of Canada’s best-known aircraft designs and a notable example of Canadian aerospace engineering, with long service in domestic remote operations and international export markets.[12][9]

Frequently asked questions

What is the Twin Otter used for?
It is used for passenger transport, cargo, medevac, and other utility or special-mission roles, especially where short or unimproved runways are involved.
When did the Twin Otter first fly?
The aircraft first flew on 20 May 1965.
How many passengers can it carry?
Typical seating is about 18–20 passengers, depending on configuration.
Is the Twin Otter still in production?
Yes. Original production ended in 1988, but production later resumed and continued with updated variants such as the Series 400 and 300-G.
Why is it called a STOL aircraft?
STOL means short takeoff and landing; the Twin Otter is designed to operate efficiently from short runways and rough airstrips.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/De_Havilland_Canada_DHC-6_Twin_Otter
    Supports: Canadian origin, STOL design, production dates, capacity, and role
  2. BAE Systems Heritage — https://heritage.baesystems.com/page/de-havilland-canada-dhc-6-twin-otter
    Supports: Introduction date, replacement intent, seating capacity, landing gear options, and total built
  3. De Havilland Canada — https://dehavilland.com/aircraft-sales/de-havilland-canada-launches-the-dhc-6-twin-otter-classic-300-g/
    Supports: 300-G variant and relation to the Series 400
  4. De Havilland Canada — https://dehavilland.com/twin-otter/
    Supports: Series 400 description, 19-seat layout, and utility roles
  5. NOAA — https://www.omao.noaa.gov/aircraft-operations/aircraft/de-havilland-dhc-6-300-twin-otter
    Supports: Performance characteristics, remote-environment use, and operational versatility
  6. Skybrary — https://skybrary.aero/aircraft/dhc6
    Supports: STOL role, fixed undercarriage, service history, and production timeline