Zimex Aviation (XM, Zurich) took delivery of its first DHC-6-300-G, becoming the first European operator of the type and the second worldwide.

C-FHEX (msn 998) was ferried from Calgary via Saskatoon, Iqaluit, and Reykjavik Domestic to Altenrhein over the course of June 16-18, 2026. The aircraft, which previously served as a demonstration unit for the new type, remains registered in Canada for the time being.

"We can confidently say that Twin Otter aircraft have been the backbone of our business for the last 56 years. We are delighted to welcome this aircraft into our fleet and look forward to deploying it across our global operations. The Twin Otter remains an essential aircraft for the demanding missions we perform every day," chief executive officer Daniele Cereghetti said.

The Swiss operator plans to add two DHC-6-300-Gs to its fleet.

Zimex Aviation was previously touted as the launch operator of the new generation of the venerable Twin Otter type, and aimed to take the first aircraft already in late 2025. Ultimately, however, Ethiopian Airlines took the first unit just days before the first delivery to Zimex.

The Swiss airline's fleet comprises 15 other aircraft, including one ATR42-500, two ATR72-200(F)s, eleven DHC-6-300s, and one DHC-6-400.