Phil Garratt and Team

In 1946, the de Havilland Canada company commenced the design of a new civilian utility aircraft for Canada’s rugged operating conditions. Specific requirements included a high-powered single engine, short takeoff and landing on wheels, skis and floats, a one-ton cargo capacity, and an overall tough construction to withstand harsh conditions and use. The design team of Phil Garratt, Fred Buller, Dick Hiscocks, Jim Houston and Wsiewolod Jakimiuk delivered on all counts and created the iconic DHC-2 Beaver, still flying today.

De Havilland Canada DHC-2 Beaver

Canada is the birthplace of bush flying and no other airplane is more emblematic of wilderness aviation than the ubiquitous Canada DHC-2 Beaver. Designed after WWII, the Beaver was an instant success, capable of carrying heavy loads on wheels, skis or floats. Though production ceased 40 years ago, hundreds of these workhorse airplanes continue to earn their keep in remote locations all over the world. The rugged Beaver is an exceptional and optimized design suited to rugged operation with beefy good looks and a willing heart.

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