Milestone Flight achieved one month after First Flight
November 17, 2004 Sandpoint, ID...Quest Aircraft's KODIAK completed its 25th flight on Sunday, November 14, as flight testing of the aircraft continued. The flight, which lasted 1.3 hours, came less than one month after the KODIAK's maiden flight last month. The KODIAK has logged over 27 hours in the first month.
The aircraft has successfully flown at max gross weight and various CG's as the company starts to examine performance numbers. During this latest flight, company officials monitored the KODIAK's lateral stability, nose wheel steering parameters, and braking power. Flight testing will resume later this week.
“We're very pleased with the progress of the flight test program and the way the KODIAK has performed,” said Tom Hamilton. Hamilton recently assumed the role of Chief Technical Officer for Quest and is responsible for overseeing the final detail design and certification of the KODIAK. Hamilton, a founder, co-visionary, and Trustee of Quest, had been serving as the company's President and CEO.
“We have an aggressive time frame for completing the flight test program and certification of the KODIAK,” stated Bruce Kennedy, Chairman of Quest's Board of Trustees. “With Tom's expertise, allowing him to focus on the key technical issues will ensure that we continue to move the KODIAK program forward and bring to market a utility aircraft that meets the highest performance standards.”
The company also announced that Paul Schaller, another member of Quest's Board of Trustees, has assumed the position of President and CEO. Schaller, who has extensive senior-level business experience, will focus on managing day-to-day business activities, as well overseeing the expansion of Quest's production facility, sales and marketing. Schaller has been a Board Member since January 2003.
“We are extremely fortunate to have two such highly-experienced individuals as Tom and Paul serving in executive capacities,” Kennedy continued. “As Quest continues to grow, expanding our management team will allow us to better reach and serve our customers.”
Quest Aircraft, LLC is the manufacturer of the KODIAK, a 10-place single engine turboprop utility airplane, designed to be float capable. Headquartered in Sandpoint, Idaho, Quest was established in 1998, and currently employs more than 35 skilled personnel.
Media Contact: Julie Stone
Office: (912) 898-8673 ▪ Mobile: (912) 398-0498
jstone@questaircraft.com