The Legendary DeHavilland Beaver and Otter
DeHavilland is the name synonymous with flying in Southeast Alaska. No other aircraft has been more pivotal in defining aviation in Ketchikan. Our pilots fly year-round, taking advantage of these rugged planes to fly the mail and passengers into remote locations, logging thousands of hours every year.
Built for wilderness. Trusted for decades
The aircraft you fly matters.
Seawind Aviation operates 2 DeHavilland Beavers (DHC-2) and 2 DeHavilland Turbine Otters (DHC-3) – legendary floatplanes originally built in Canada between the late 1940s and early 1960s and still revered today for their performance, durability, and reliability in remote environments.
These aircraft were designed for places exactly like Southeast Alaska – where water landings, changing weather, and rugged terrain demand capability you can trust.
Four meticulously maintained floatplanes. One exceptional experience
Our fleet is purpose-built for flightseeing, charter operations, and fly-in access across the Ketchikan area and beyond. Each aircraft is carefully maintained and operated with safety and comfort in mind.
Whether you are flying over the Misty Fjords, heading to a remote fishing destination, or booking a private charter, our aircraft are selected to match the experience.
The DeHavilland Beaver
The bush plane of the North
The DeHavilland DHC-2 “Beaver” is one of the most iconic aircraft in aviation history, especially in Alaska, and was determined to be one of the top ten Canadian engineering achievements. Its service since its design in 1947 speaks for itself. Commonly known as a bush “workhorse,” its short take-off and landing and stable flight characteristics proved to be the perfect fit for the demands of Southeast Alaska’s residents and visitors.
While its role in servicing the needs of isolated communities and logging camps has diminished over time, the Beaver is not yet ready to retire. Come down and hear the “eager” Beaver’s round Pratt & Whitney, nine-cylinder engine rumble and roar to life in anticipation of another Southeast Alaska adventure.
Seawind Aviation operates two DeHavilland Beavers. Each beaver holds 6-7 passengers, with every passenger enjoying a window seat. This makes them ideal for flightseeing tours where visibility and comfort matter.
From Fjords and waterfalls to wildlife sightings along the coastline, the Beaver offers an intimate, immersive way to experience southeast Alaska from the air.
Seats up to 6–7 passengers
Window seat for every guest
Excellent visibility for sightseeing
Ideal for Misty Fjords and scenic tours
The DeHavilland Otter
More space. Same legendary performance
The DeHavilland DHC-3 “Otter” was originally designed in 1951 as the “King Beaver,” with the same take-off and flight characteristics as its dependable predecessor, but with the added advantage of comfortably carrying up to ten passengers. Although the “Otter” was initially equipped with a “round” Pratt & Whitney, nine-cylinder engine, in recent years, these steady, durable working airplanes have been modified with turbine engines, greatly enhancing performance and reliability. While it doesn’t rumble and roar like the Beaver, you can still hear the Otter’s whining, beckoning call to Southeast Alaska adventure in its own intensifying song. Seawind Aviation operates two turbine-equipped DeHavilland Otters.
Our Otters seat up to 10 passengers, with window seating throughout, making them a comfortable option for group flightseeing, lodge transfers, and custom charter flights.
Seats up to 10 passengers
Spacious, comfortable cabin
Excellent visibility for sightseeing
Ideal for group travel and private charters
Reserve an aircraft just for your group
Both our Beavers and Otters can be reserved for private group flights or custom charters, offering flexibility, privacy, and a fully tailored experience.
Whether you are coordinating a lodge transfer, planning a sightseeing flight, or arranging a special occasion, private charter options allow your group to experience Southeast Alaska on your terms.
Safety is our #1 standard
At Seawind Aviation, safety is our top priority and the cornerstone of every decision we make before taking off. Our pilots are among the most experienced aviators in Alaska and are well-versed in the unique challenges posed by Southeast Alaska’s weather and terrain. With a profound respect for the landscape we cherish, our pilots fly with confidence and precision.
Behind every flight is a dedicated team of expert mechanics and operations professionals who maintain our aircraft with meticulous attention to detail. Our fleet consists of two DeHavilland beavers and two Turbine-equipped DeHavilland Otters. The mechanics maintaining Seawind’s fleet possess an in-depth knowledge of these aircraft, ensuring they undergo comprehensive maintenance and continuous inspection cycles that meet or exceed FAA standards.
We take pride in our unwavering commitment to safety. Each aircraft is equipped with ADSB, which provides the pilots with real-time terrain awareness and the ability to show other aircraft in the vicinity. In addition, we utilize a real-time tracking system that allows us to monitor the location of each Seawind aircraft at all times.