Next-gen InSight Suite to Extend Life and Capabilities of Legacy Fleet with Enhanced Navigation

CALGARY – Aviation News – De Havilland Aircraft of Canada (DHC) has announced a major technological upgrade for its renowned Dash 8-100 and 200 series aircraft, unveiling a new avionics solution designed to modernize and extend the life of these regional workhorses.

Partnering with Universal Avionics and JANA Inc., De Havilland is developing a custom installation of the Universal InSight flight display system. The system replaces outdated CRT instrumentation with five high-resolution LCD displays, offering synthetic vision, digital engine indications, and enhanced situational awareness for pilots.

Enhancing Regional Reliability, Especially in Northern Communities

The upgrade is particularly relevant for operators flying in demanding environments—such as Northern Ontario and Canada’s remote regions—where the Dash 8 continues to be a critical link for passenger, cargo, and medevac missions. The enhanced avionics system is expected to improve reliability, ease maintenance challenges, and meet evolving regulatory standards, offering renewed longevity to fleets serving remote communities.

Widerøe’s Flyveselskap AS Named as Launch Customer

Certification for the upgraded avionics suite is anticipated in the first half of 2026, with Norway’s Widerøe’s Flyveselskap AS announced as the launch customer. The system’s introduction aligns with De Havilland Canada’s long-term vision to invest in and support the sustainability of its legacy fleet.

A Strategic Investment in Fleet Longevity

“This upgrade will ensure that these rugged and reliable aircraft will be flying for many years to come,” said Jean-Philippe Cote, VP of Programs and Business Improvement at DHC. “It’s a strong solution for operators needing to replace aging, hard-to-maintain equipment with modern, easy-to-service systems.”