[quote=Torres;2988198]
NutLoose. Do you know I've been hearing that the Twin Otter has been going back into production for the past 30 years??? Are new PT6A-27/-28 or -34 engines still available?
quote]
It's closer than you think
http://www.vikingair.com/content2.aspx?id=276
http://www.vikingair.com/content.aspx?id=320
The new aircraft, based on the original 19-seat Series 300, will be designated the Twin Otter Series 400, and will see its major components built in Victoria with aircraft assembled and delivered from Calgary, Alberta. Several performance and production upgrades will be incorportated into the new aircraft, which will sell for US $3.2 million in 2006 dollars, adjusted to the consumer price index at the time of delivery. Float, amphibious and ski landing gear will be offered as aftermarket options.
Operators will also be able to select their desired avionics and cockpit systems. “Glass cockpit” technology and multi-function displays (MFD) will enhance reliability and save significant weight on new-production airplanes.
The only significant performance change from the Series 300 is in the powerplants. The original engines, Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-27s, will be supplanted by higher output, more efficient PT6A-34 engines, flat rated to 620 hp.
The aircraft’s operating weight empty will also be reduced from the Series 300 through use of composites in secondary structures such as doors, radome/nose sections and fairings.