Ethiopian Airlines has taken delivery of its first DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-G, adding the smallest aircraft in its fleet. The 19-seat turboprop will be used on domestic routes and special missions across Ethiopia.
The airline said the aircraft is the first of two Twin Otters ordered from De Havilland Aircraft of Canada and will be used to expand domestic operations, particularly to remote communities and tourism destinations across Ethiopia.
Related news
March 22, 2026
January 22, 2026
“We appreciate Ethiopian Airlines’ confidence in De Havilland Canada and the Twin Otter Classic 300-G,” said Ryan DeBrusk, Vice President, Sales and Marketing, De Havilland Canada. “The Twin Otter’s proven reliability, versatility, and ability to operate in challenging environments make it well suited to the diverse missions Ethiopian Airlines will undertake across the region.
The aircraft joins a fleet that includes ATR 72s, Dash 8-400s, Airbus A350s and several Boeing types ranging from the 737 MAX to the 787, 777 and 767. With capacity for up to 19 passengers, the Twin Otter occupies a segment well below any aircraft currently operated by Ethiopian.
Unlike the larger Dash 8, the Twin Otter was designed for short-haul operations from small and often unprepared airfields. The aircraft is widely used in regions where runway infrastructure is limited and where larger turboprops are not economically viable.
Ethiopian said the aircraft will be configured for multiple roles, including charter flights to tourist destinations, airport calibration missions, aerial surveys and air ambulance operations.
The Twin Otter has built a reputation as one of the world's most versatile utility aircraft since entering service in the 1960s. More than 1,000 examples have been produced, serving commercial airlines, government agencies and military operators in environments ranging from the Arctic to tropical island networks.
The latest Classic 300-G version retains the Twin Otter's short takeoff and landing performance but adds a Garmin G1000 avionics suite, updated electrical systems and cockpit improvements.
