IATA DHPICAO DHC2

De Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver

De Havilland Canada

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Legendary Canadian bush plane built for rugged utility.

First flight

1947

Category

Utility piston aircraft

Seating

6-7

Range

1,252 km

Engines

Single Pratt & Whitney R-985 Wasp Junior radial piston engine

Status

In service

The De Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver is a single-engine, high-wing utility aircraft designed for operations in remote and challenging environments. First flown in 1947, it was developed to meet Canadian bush-flying requirements, capable of operating on wheels, floats, or skis. The Beaver became one of the most versatile light utility aircraft ever built, seeing widespread use among military operators, bush pilots, and civilian charter companies worldwide. The United States Army was among its largest military customers. Over 1,600 aircraft were produced before production ended in 1967. Many DHC-2 Beavers remain airworthy today, prized for their ruggedness, short takeoff and landing performance, and ability to carry heavy loads relative to their size. It was designated a National Historic Engineering Achievement by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

Notable operators

Operated extensively by the U.S. Army, Royal Canadian Air Force, and numerous bush and charter operators across Canada, Alaska, and remote regions worldwide.

Notable facts

›Over 1,657 aircraft were built between 1947 and 1967.
›Can be equipped with wheels, floats, or skis for versatile operations.
›Designated a National Historic Engineering Achievement by the ASME.
›The U.S. Army was the single largest military operator, using it as a light utility transport.
›Viking Air of Canada acquired the type certificate and offers turbine-converted variants.