In June 2019, Viking acquired the type certificates of the SC7 Skyvan, SD330, SD360 and Sherpa from Shorts Brothers (Bombardier) in Belfast, Ireland. With this acquisition, Viking’s Customer Service and Product Support team assumes responsibility for these fleets, providing technical & engineering support.

SC7 Skyvan

The Short SC.7 Skyvan, took its first flight on the 17th of January 1963 in Belfast, UK. Built for STOL utility transport and as a regional airliner, this 19-seat twin-turboprop is installed with two Honeywell engines and three-blade variable pitch Hartzell propellers. The Skyvan ability to fly with the large rear door open means that even longer loads can be carried. This aircraft is now predominantly used for cargo carrying operations or civil para-dropping role. 

Image Credit: Mark Pieper

SD330

The Short SD330 is a stretched development of the SC.7 Skyvan and 122 aircrafts were manufactured before production ended in 1989. In comparison to the Skyvan, SD 330 has an unpressurised twin tail, high aspect ration wing and was designed as a commuter and small freight aircraft. The aircraft can seat 30 passengers plus 3 crew members and has 60% greater fuel capacity boosts range significantly over the Skyvan.

SD360

The SD360 was developed from the SD330 by extending the forward fuselage and introducing a new single vertical stabiliser and conventional tailplane. The two Pratt & Whitney of Canada PT6A-65R engines were fitted with Hartzell 5 blade aluminium propellers, metal spinners and standard (round) exhaust stacks. The SD360 aircraft have retired from military service and are being used in cargo carrying operations. 

Sherpa

There are two different Sherpa aircraft built starting in 1982, the C23-B and C23B+. Both were designed as military aircraft and are used majority by the US Air Force. The C23-B is an SD3-30 with a PT6A-65AR. It was designed to operate from unpaved runways and make short takeoff and landings (STOL). It features a large, squared fuselage with a full-width rear cargo door/ramp. The C23B+ is an existing SD3-60 that was modified for military purpose. The tail was replaced to accommodate a rear ramp and door. The ramp door facilitates the loading of equipment and enables airdrop and parachuting.

Viking provides parts and support services to the Shorts fleet worldwide. If you would like more information on Viking's support for this aircraft, please visit our Customer Support page for details.