DHC launches Dash 8 100 and 200 avionics update

De Havilland Aircraft of Canada (DHC) has announced the development of a new avionics solution for its Dash 8 100 and 200 aircraft. In partnership with Universal Avionics, a customised Universal InSight avionics suite is currently under development and will be made available for customers seeking to upgrade their aircraft.

“We are pleased to introduce an upgraded avionics suite for our Dash 8 100 and 200 customers,” said Jean-Philippe Cote, Vice President of Programmes and Business Improvement for De Havilland Canada. “This upgrade will ensure that these rugged and reliable aircraft will be flying for many years to come.”

Working in collaboration with Universal Avionics and JANA Inc., DHC is developing an avionics upgrade designed to enhance navigational capabilities and bolster safety by offering improved situational awareness for pilots—an excellent solution for existing operators. Certification of the new avionics solution is expected in the first half of 2026, with Widerøe’s Flyveselskap AS confirmed as the launch customer for the programme.

The integration of Universal’s InSight flight display system into the Dash 8 will include five high-resolution LCD displays, featuring advanced synthetic vision and digital engine indication. This upgrade replaces outdated CRT equipment, reducing aircraft weight and significantly enhancing the performance of the current avionics suite.

“Partnering with Universal Avionics to upgrade our Dash 8 100/200 aircraft reinforces De Havilland Canada’s commitment to investing in the fleet and delivering modernised and reliable solutions to our customers. The new avionics provides a good solution to replace components difficult to replace and repair,” said Cote. “This solution is part of our overall goal as a company to keep our existing fleet flying.”