Idaho manufacturer Quest Aircraft has celebrated the 10th anniversary of the first delivery of their Kodiak 100 single-engine turbo-prop.
The 10-seat PT6-powered highwing was developed as an alternative to the Cessna Caravan, especially for missionary and humanitarian operations in remote areas, and the aircraft has gained acceptance in several markets around the world.
Designed initially as a utility aircraft, the Kodiak 100 has recently been developed to capture some of the corporate and short-haul transport markets.
“The Kodiak design was born out of a passion to do good in the world, and better within our own industry, said Quest CEO Rob Wells. "It is that passion and dedication that has brought us here today, celebrating ten years since our first customer delivery.
"I’m proud to celebrate alongside our employees, partners and customers as we all look forward to many more years of growth and success.”
Quest Aircraft started in 2001 with only 14 staff, but today employs over 300 people in a factory of over 10,000 sqm in Sandpoint, Idaho. In 2015, the Japanese firm Setouchi Holdings bought the company.
The Kodiak 100, the brainchild of Glasair developer Tom Hamilton and experienced humanitarian pilot Dave Voetman, is the only aircraft Quest makes. The FAA certified the aircraft in July 2007, with the first customer delivery to SpiritAir occurring in January 2008.
There are currently over 200 Kodiaks in operation around the world.
Check out Australian Flying's flight test and aircraft profiles of the Quest Kodiak 100.