The UV-18B is a military variant of the DHC-6 Twin Otter, a foundational short take-off and landing (STOL) utility aircraft. Manufactured by DE Havilland, the UV-18B is specifically used by the U.S. Air Force Academy’s 98th Flying Training Squadron for free-fall parachute training. Three of these aircraft support year-round parachuting operations.
DE Havilland, originally established as the de Havilland Aircraft Company in the UK, has a rich manufacturing history. De Havilland Canada (DHC), the branch that developed the Twin Otter, was formed in 1928 to build planes for the Canadian market. The Twin Otter was designed in the 1960s and became a legendary workhorse, renowned for its sturdy design, high wing, and ability to operate reliably in challenging environments. The UV-18B continues this legacy as a dedicated trainer.
A range of platforms and access solutions are stocked for use around this aircraft, supporting methodical maintenance and inspection across critical areas. These solutions, including the Reach Deck Platform, Modular Stepover Platforms, Super Trestle Scaffold, and Ultraraise, address access requirements for the Nose Section (Radome, Antenna, Nose Avionics, Windshield & Cockpit, Bulkhead), Forward Fuselage (MED, Cargo/Baggage, Cabin Access), Landing Gear (NLG + MLG), Middle Fuselage / Wing Box Area (Wing Box, Fuel Tanks, Oil Maintenance), Wing & Engine Pylon (Engine, Hydraulics, Fuel Tanks/Pumps), AFT Fuselage (AFT Bulkhead, Rear Avionics), and the Tail Section (Vertical Stabiliser, Horizontal Stabiliser, Rudder).
