Maximum Gross Weight Increases for KODIAK

April 19, 2010, Sandpoint, ID...Quest Aircraft Company has received FAA approval to operate the KODIAK at a maximum takeoff weight of 7,255 lbs. This is an increase from the existing 6,750 lbs. The useful load of the aircraft has increased to 3,535 lbs.
     “Since receiving our type certification in 2007, we have continued to work on enhancements and improvements to the KODIAK,” stated Paul Schaller, Quest Aircraft’s President and CEO. “The gross weight increase is one of the modifications our customers have been interested in and we are pleased that we have now achieved this heavier payload capacity.”
     The KODIAK can take off in under 1,000 feet at full gross takeoff weight of 7,255 lbs and climb at over 1,300 feet per minute. A 3-panel Garmin G1000 integrated avionics suite is standard equipment on the KODIAK. Quest also offers Synthetic Vision Technology for the G1000. The KODIAK’s rugged aluminum construction combines superior STOL performance and high useful load. It offers proven turbine reliability with the Pratt & Whitney PT6 turbine engine, is capable of working off floats without structural upgrades and has the ability to land on unimproved surfaces.
     “The KODIAK was designed with and for mission and humanitarian aviation organizations to perform under extremely rigorous conditions in the most remote regions of the world,” added Schaller.  “The gross weight increase will enable them to carry more cargo and/or passengers so they can execute their operations even more effectively.  We know our commercial customers will also appreciate the operational enhancement.”
     Quest has seen strong market acceptance in key market segments, including personal use, Part 135 operations, government, and humanitarian organizations. Two KODIAK aircraft have been involved in the disaster relief efforts in Haiti in recent months. Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) deployed their KODIAK to Haiti in January, marking the first-ever use of this model aircraft in disaster relief work. The organization Samaritan's Purse also sent a KODIAK to Haiti to assist in relief efforts. To-date, ten KODIAKs have been delivered to mission and humanitarian organizations for operations around the world.
     Quest Aircraft Company, LLC is the manufacturer of the KODIAK, a 10-place single engine turboprop utility airplane, designed for STOL use and float capability. Headquartered in Sandpoint, Idaho, Quest was established in 2001 and employs over 275 skilled personnel. The company began customer deliveries of the KODIAK in December 2007.

Press Contact:
Julie Stone
(912) 898-8673 ofc
(912) 398-0498 mobile
jstone@questaircraft.com