Rugged KODIAK on Display at EAA AirVenture
Prototype Aircraft Showcases Aircraft’s Backcountry Performance

July 24, 2006, Oshkosh, WI...Quest Aircraft’s KODIAK is making its second appearance at EAA’s AirVenture, which opens today. The aircraft, N490QK, will be on display for the duration of the show in the Quest booth, #S-14.

Since its appearance last year, there have been numerous changes to the aircraft, including installation of the base interior and the Cargo Pod. This is the first public showing of the pod- equipped KODIAK. The airplane is also now equipped with the Garmin G1000 integrated avionics suite, which will be standard equipment for the KODIAK. The three-panel high-resolution display incorporates all flight-critical data and presents it to the pilot digitally. This is the first installation in a turboprop aircraft of the popular G1000.

The optional Cargo Pod will allow the aircraft to carry an additional 60 cubic feet of cargo, baggage, or other equipment. “We believe the Cargo Pod will be a popular option for many customers,” stated Paul Schaller, Quest’s Chief Executive Officer. “Our flight evaluation tests with the pod installed have gone very well and we expect it will be available as an option for customers on the first deliveries.” 

Visitors to Quest’s booth can also view a video highlighting the KODIAK’s field evaluation at Allison Ranch, one of the most challenging strips in the backcountry, and a true measure of the aircraft’s rugged performance and reliability. “The three-day field evaluation at Allison Ranch gave us a chance to test the aircraft’s STOL capabilities with varying loads and also see how the Garmin G1000 avionics package performed in real-world conditions,” Schaller said. “We were very pleased with the KODIAK’s agility and responsiveness. The G1000 also proved to be extremely reliable and greatly increased the pilot’s situational awareness.”

First flight of the KODIAK took place on October 16, 2004 and the aircraft has since logged close to 500 hours toward FAA certification. The KODIAK’s rugged aluminum construction combines superior STOL performance and high useful load. It offers the proven turbine reliability of the Pratt & Whitney PT6 engine, and has the ability to land on unimproved surfaces. 

Quest Aircraft, LLC is the manufacturer of the KODIAK, a 10-place single engine turboprop utility airplane, designed to be float capable. Headquartered in Sandpoint, Idaho, Quest was established in 2001, and currently employs more than 75 skilled personnel.

Press Contact:
Julie Stone
(912) 898-8673 ofc
(912) 398-0498 cell