The airline increases its participation in the industry-leading aircraft life extension program, bringing its total commitment to 14 aircraft.
July 20, 2026 (Farnborough, United Kingdom) — De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (“De Havilland Canada”) today announced that Widerøe has added four more Dash 8-100 aircraft to its Extended Service Program PLUS (ESP+) agreement.
Widerøe became the launch customer for ESP+ in 2022, initially enrolling 10 aircraft with options for an additional 10. With this latest commitment, the airline has now confirmed 14 aircraft in the program.
ESP+ extends the service life of the Dash 8-100 from 120,000 to 160,000 flight cycles, giving it the longest flight-cycle life of any commercial aircraft.
“We’re delighted to continue building on our long-standing relationship with Widerøe through the expansion of the ESP+ program,” said Rob Mobilio, Chief Commercial Officer for De Havilland Canada. “Widerøe has been a leader in the adoption of this program from the beginning, and we’re proud to support them as they continue to maximize the value and service life of their Dash 8-100 fleet.”
Widerøe has operated the Dash 8 family for decades, connecting communities across Norway in some of the world’s most demanding operating environments.
“We are pleased to expand our participation in the ESP+ program,” said Werner Skaue, Director of Aircraft Trading for Widerøe. “The Dash 8-100 remains an important part of our regional network, and ESP+ gives us a practical and cost-effective way to extend the life of these aircraft while maintaining the safety, reliability and performance our operations depend on.”
In addition to ESP+, Widerøe also participates in De Havilland Component Solutions, De Havilland Canada’s comprehensive component support program.
The expanded ESP+ commitment highlights De Havilland Canada’s continued investment in aftermarket solutions that help operators extend aircraft life, reduce ownership costs, and keep the proven Dash 8 fleet flying for decades to come.
About De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited
De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (De Havilland Canada) is a cornerstone of Canadian aerospace innovation, proudly designing, building, and supporting aircraft in Canada for the global market. Every aircraft we produce creates high-value jobs, strengthens our national aerospace industry, and contributes to a resilient and growing economy.
Built in Canada. Made for the world.
With a fleet of more than 5,000 aircraft delivered to operators worldwide, De Havilland Canada has earned a global reputation for rugged, reliable performance and exceptional customer support. Our aircraft connect people and places—from the most remote communities to the busiest regional hubs—carrying millions of passengers and critical cargo every year.
Built to operate in the toughest environments, De Havilland Canada aircraft are trusted for a wide range of missions, including aerial firefighting, search and rescue, medical evacuation, surveillance, and more. Our near-century-long legacy is driven by a passionate Canadian workforce dedicated to shaping the future of regional and missionized aviation.
Discover more at: www.dehavilland.com
Media Contact
Jody Moseley
communications@dehavilland.com
