Viking Air parent company Longview Aviation Capital on Monday launched De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited, the trade name of the subsidiary company that will operate the worldwide Dash 8 aircraft business following Longview’s acquisition of the former Bombardier Q400 program. The Dash 8 joins Longview’s 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.

“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 Longview Aviation Capital chairman David Curtis.

“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. In the months ahead we will be investing in the business with the aim of positioning us to better serve our customers.”

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 that extend until 2023. Todd Young, a 30-year veteran of Bombardier who most recently held responsibility 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 moved to De Havilland Aircraft of Canada.

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited has obtained all regulatory approvals from Transport Canada and relevant competition authorities.