The DHC-3 Floatplane was purchased in October 2004 and has undergone a major refurbishment, including large scenic windows and it is now configured to accommodate for ten passengers executive seating. The Otter has a very interesting history; it was built in 1954 and served in the Canadian Air Force for many years.
The Otter served with a rescue unit in Nova Scotia first and was later shipped to Egypt as part of the United Nations duties to supervise the ceasefire between Israel and Egypt after the Suez crisis.
In 1975, the Otter was transferred to the Province of Ontario to fly for the Ministry of Natural Resources. It flew government personnel to remote areas and was used for rescue work, fire fighting and cargo carrying.
An American company bought the Otter in 1986 and from then on, the floatplane became a tourist carrier. Not long after, it was purchased by an Alaskan company who used the Otter for commuter type services. A few years later, the Otter made its way back to Canada and in 2004 it was shipped to New Zealand.
Volcanic Air Safaris uses this extraordinary plane, seating 10 passengers, for our standard brochure flights as well as charters to suitable water destinations and waterfront properties. Book your White Island scenic flight tour today!