June 21, 2010, Sandpoint, ID...Wipaire, Inc. has received Supplemental Type Certification (STC) of their Wipline 7000 Amphibious Float installed on the Quest KODIAK. The Wipline 7000 Float has been in full production since December when it received FAA approval via a Technical Standard Order Authorization (TSOA). Customer deliveries are now underway.
The Wipline 7000 floats are the latest addition to Wipaire’s Wipline family of products. The hulls are modeled after the successful Wipline 13000 Floats, which have improved rough water handling qualities for float-equipped aircraft. The new floats include the traditional Wipline flat top deck for easy loading and safety. The main gear system has been completely redesigned, which improves reliability and makes for easy maintenance.
“These features along with several other enhancements make the Wipline 7000 the most advanced float we have ever produced,” said Rich Adler, Manager of Engineering and Certification. “We are very pleased with the overall performance of the float, and expect operators will be pleased as well.”
“We have quite a few customers for the KODIAK that have been waiting for floats,” said Paul Schaller, Quest President and CEO. “The certification of the Wipaire float is a significant milestone for us and demonstrates the rugged performance capabilities that are inherent in the aircraft’s design.” The KODIAK is built around a commitment to modern STOL design and was designed from the outset to operate off floats without structural upgrades.
About Wipaire, Inc.
For 50 years, Wipaire has been engineering and manufacturing a full line of aircraft floats for all sizes of aircraft from the Piper Cub to the de Havilland Twin Otter. In addition they hold over 100 Supplemental Type Certificates for a variety of useful aircraft modifications. Wipaire is also a service leader in other areas, including aircraft maintenance, avionics installation and repair, custom interior design and installation, and exterior refinishing. For more information, visit www.wipaire.com.
About Quest Aircraft Company
Quest Aircraft Company, LLC is the manufacturer of the KODIAK, a 10-place single engine turboprop utility airplane, designed for STOL use and float capability. Headquartered in Sandpoint, Idaho, Quest was established in 2001 and employs over 275 skilled personnel. The company began customer deliveries of the KODIAK in December 2007.
Media Contact: Julie Stone
Office: (912) 898-8673 ▪ Mobile: (912) 398-0498
jstone@questaircraft.com