LOOMING FUEL CRISIS THREATENS AVIATION FUTURE OF LOCAL MISSION ORGANIZATION
ORLANDO, Fla., Nov. 3, 2005— Bush airplanes are a necessity for missionaries to reach people in remote parts of the world and have become key instruments for organizations like locally-headquartered Wycliffe Bible Translators to continue its mission. These aircraft operate on a highly refined fuel known as avgas – fuel that is very expensive and could become nonexistent in many less developed countries.
Currently, missionaries serving in the most remote areas of the world rely on outdated aircraft, flying over thick jungle brush or landing on gravel air strips less than half of a mile long. But as these aircraft continue to age, and avgas supplies deplete, using these planes may soon no longer be a viable option.
Many mission organizations believe the answer to this challenge is the KODIAK, the first backcountry aircraft designed for the 21st century by Quest Aircraft. JAARS, which supplies Wycliffe missionaries with the aircraft to reach their destinations, is one of Quest Aircraft’s Quest Mission Team members, and, along with other mission and humanitarian organizations provided input into the KODIAK’s design.
The KODIAK, often called “the ideal missionary aircraft,” is flying into the Orlando International Airport, Galaxy Aviation, 4250 Express Street on Tuesday, Nov. 8, in
conjunction with the National Business Aviation Association’s 2005 annual Convention.
The KODIAK operates with superior short take-off and landing capabilities, which allows it to take off in twice the length of a football field and climb at 1700 feet per minute when fully loaded. The KODIAK also has a higher propeller ground clearance so it can land in gravel without kicking up stones, preventing damage to the propeller and the aircraft. But, most importantly, the KODIAK operates using highly reliable jet engine technology, ensuring missionaries can reach the people they serve, and they can also return home safely.
The development of the KODIAK grew from the need for a new-generation aircraft to serve both humanitarian mission and backcountry commercial aviation needs. Funding this new initiative required the innovative and unusual means of raising funds in cooperation with future customers who buy airplanes for relief and mission needs. Commercial success in the charter, utility, and other markets will subsidize airplanes destined for serving mission organizations like Wycliffe. Ninety percent of the airplanes produced will be sold commercially, thus allowing participating mission organizations to purchase them at a substantially reduced cost.
Quest has generated significant customer interest since the first flight of the KODIAK in October 2004 with orders exceeding expectations and is on track to receive FAA certification in spring 2006. With the potential to change, and even save, millions of lives around the world, the KODIAK is in high demand.
About Wycliffe Foundation
The Wycliffe Foundation is a non-profit corporation that serves several organizations based in the United States associated with global Bible translation, literacy and linguistics efforts. The Wycliffe Foundation is a gift planning ministry that informs people about programs like wills, trusts and annuities. For more information on the Wycliffe Foundation, visit WycliffeFoundation.org.
About Quest Aircraft
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 2001, and currently employs more than 50 skilled personnel. The company recently completed a 57,000 square foot expansion to its facility that will house the KODIAK production line. For more information on Quest Aircraft, LLC, visit QuestAircraft.com.
