Longview Aviation Capital Corp. has established a new holding company to contain its Dash 8 line of aircraft following the completion of its sale from Bombardier Aerospace. The deal, which was announced in November last year, recently obtained all regulatory approvals from Transport Canada and other relevant competition authorities.

In a statement, Longview said De Havilland Aircraft of Canada will operate its worldwide Dash 8 aircraft business which now includes the Dash 8-100, Dash 8-200, and Dash 8-300 series as well as the in-production Dash 8-400 program. Longview already holds the Type Certificates and entire product line of the DHC-6 Twin Otter program (placed with Viking Air) and the DHC-1 through Dash 7 series, as well as the former Canadair CL-215, CL-215T, and CL-415 waterbomber series of aircraft. As part of the purchase from Bombardier, Longview also acquired the rights to the De Havilland Canada name and brand.

"We are particularly proud to introduce De Havilland Aircraft of Canada as an operating company and return the De Havilland Canada brand to prominence in the global aerospace industry," David Curtis, Chairman, Longview Aviation Capital, said in a statement. "The iconic De Havilland name dates back almost one hundred years, and is responsible for some of the most renowned aircraft in aviation history. The combination of the Dash 8 with the existing Longview Aviation Capital portfolio unites the entire De Havilland product line under the same banner for the first time in decades. With a new corporate identity that draws on the rich brand heritage, we are excited about the opportunities we see ahead for this company, and for the Dash 8 aircraft."

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited will continue to produce, service and support Dash 8 and Q400 aircraft from its Toronto Downsview site under land lease agreements which extend until 2023.

Todd Young, a 30-year veteran of Bombardier who most recently was responsible for the Q-Series program, will lead the business as Chief Operating Officer.

In addition, nearly all of the previous Downsview workforce, and all existing union agreements, have transitioned to De Havilland Aircraft of Canada, ensuring operational continuity and a seamless transition for customers.