Q300/400

The Q300/400, part of the Dash 8 family of aircraft, is a series of regional turboprop airliners known for their fuel efficiency and reliable performance, particularly on shorter routes. The Q-series designation stands for “Quiet,” referencing the Active Noise and Vibration Suppression (ANVS) system introduced to the cabin.

The aircraft traces its origins to De Havilland Canada, which developed the original Dash 8 series. De Havilland Canada, with a history dating back to 1920, is famous for producing rugged and reliable aircraft like the Beaver and Otter. The Dash 8 program was later acquired by Bombardier in 1992, and both the Q300 (Dash 8-300) and the Q400 were developed under Bombardier’s stewardship. In 2019, the Dash 8 program was transferred back to a reconstituted De Havilland Canada.

The Q300 is a versatile regional turboprop, typically seating 50-56 passengers, with a cruise speed of about 530 km/h (287 kts) and a range of around 1,558 km. These aircraft are widely used globally by regional airlines for connecting smaller communities and operating in challenging environments due to their Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) capabilities. Common locations include Canada, Australasia, and various regional networks in Europe and the Americas.