The Dash-8 is one of a long-line of highly successful STOL military and commercial transports produced by the Canadian company at Downsview, Ontario.

The aircraft was designed to meet Regulation 95-10, being a two-seater in tandem with an open cockpit or enclosed cockpit, as the customer wishes, but with the same responsive controls and handling of the larger aircraft. The cargo area can be used for a jump seat.