Daher has extended its North American support network by adding the Kodiak aircraft family to the responsibilities of long-time partner Columbia Aircraft Sales and Columbia Air Services.

The move builds on a relationship that dates back to 1990, when Columbia became the first distributor for Daher's TBM aircraft. The company will now handle sales and full-service support for Kodiak aircraft across a wide northeastern territory, including New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia.

Nicolas Chabbert, CEO of Daher Aircraft, says: “Columbia Aircraft Sales and Columbia Air Services have consistently set the standard for TBM customers, which is fully aligned with our strategy of delivering long-term value for the growing base of Kodiak and TBM owners/operators. Adding the 'go anywhere' Kodiak multi-mission product line to its portfolio builds on this, pairing our highly capable utility aircraft with a network partner defined by expertise, reliability and strong customer relationships.”

The agreement allows Columbia to provide factory-authorised maintenance, repair and overhaul, avionics upgrades and parts support for both aircraft types from its bases in Connecticut and West Virginia.

Melissa Düzgüner, CEO and director of sales at Columbia Aircraft Sales and Columbia Air Services, adds: “We've built a strong foundation supporting the TBM for decades, and we're excited to bring this same level of service and commitment to Kodiak operators. Daher's reputation and the strength of its product line give us tremendous confidence as we introduce the Kodiak to our customers.”

Columbia has already taken delivery of a Kodiak 100 Series III aircraft, with a larger Kodiak 900 expected later this year.