Ethiopian Airlines Receives First DHC‑6 Twin Otter Classic 300‑G For Regional Connectivity in Ethiopia.

• Ethiopian Airlines has taken delivery of the first of two DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft from De Havilland Canada.
• The aircraft is built for short takeoff and landing operations and will support charter flights, airport calibration, aerial surveys, air ambulance services and other missions in challenging environments.
• The second aircraft is scheduled to arrive later this year, further boosting the airline’s ability to reach difficult and isolated locations.

Adding a new chapter to its' regional operations, Ethiopia’s flagship carrier, Ethiopian Airlines Group, has taken delivery of the first of two DHC‑6 Twin Otter Classic 300‑G aircraft from De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited.

The new Turboprop Twin Otters are aimed at expanding the airline’s domestic network, improve access to remote regions and support tourism, aerial‑survey, air‑ambulance and airport‑calibration missions across the country.

On the delivery of the aircraft, Nicolas Simard, the Ambassador of Canada to Ethiopia and Djibouti said,

"Thrilled to join the demonstration flight of the new De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G delivered to Ethiopian Airlines!"

"A fitting moment as we celebrate 80 years of Ethiopian Airlines and 60 years of Canada-Ethiopia diplomatic relations. Aviation and aerospace continue to connect our countries, drive innovation, and create opportunities for deeper commercial partnership."

The Twin Otter Classic 300‑G retains the legendary short‑takeoff‑and‑landing (STOL) capability that allows operations on short, unpaved runways – a critical requirement for many Ethiopian hinterland airports.

Modern Avionics and Passenger Comfort features of DHC‑6 Twin Otter Classic 300‑G aircraft: 

• Garmin G1000 integrated flight deck – enhances situational awareness and reduces pilot workload.
• Lightweight cabin seats – improve passenger comfort on short‑haul flights.
• Upgraded electrical systems and cockpit ergonomics – increase reliability and lower operating costs.

The aircraft is configured for multi‑purpose missions, including:

• Charter flights to tourist attractions – such as the Simien Mountains and Lake Tana.
• Airport calibration and aerial surveys – supporting civil aviation authorities.
• Air‑ambulance services – delivering rapid medical transport to isolated communities.

Ethiopian Airlines had ordered two new DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft from De Havilland Canada to boost domestic and regional connectivity.

“The acquisition of the DHC‑6 Twin Otter Classic 300‑G will complement our extensive domestic air‑transport service and reinforce our commitment to tourism and essential air services,” said Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group.

The Canadian Twin Otter delivery comes just days after Ethiopian Airlines celebrated its 80th anniversary. 

Ryan DeBrusk, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at De Havilland Canada, added: 

“The Twin Otter’s proven reliability, versatility, and ability to operate in challenging environments make it ideal for the diverse missions Ethiopian Airlines will undertake across East Africa. We appreciate the trust placed in us and look forward to supporting the airline’s growth.”

Ethiopian Airlines Group is Africa’s largest airline, operating flights to more than 160 destinations across five continents. The carrier’s modern fleet features aircraft such as the Boeing 737, 777, 787, Airbus A350‑900/1000, and the De Havilland Q400.