N87AW Aircraft Overview
Performance Profile
The De Havilland DHC-3 delivers 133-knot performance across 820 NM. N87AW is powered by 1x P&W R-1340 Wasp (or PT6 upgrade) at 600 hp. An operating ceiling of 18,800 feet keeps the aircraft above most weather while maintaining fuel efficiency.
Mission Profile
The De Havilland DHC-3 seats up to 10 passengers in a cabin measuring 16.4 ft long, 5.2 ft wide, and 5.0 ft tall. N87AW operates where efficiency and short-field capability take priority over speed.
Charter Authorization
N87AW's operator holds Part 135 authorization covering domestic charter. The De Havilland DHC-3's short-field capability and low hourly rate make it ideal for regional corporate travel.
Insider Note
In the pre-owned market, well-maintained De Havilland DHC-3 airframes hold their value because demand for turboprop operations remains constant. N87AW's 1954 build year and active Part 135 status indicate revenue-service maintenance standards.
Charter & Acquisition Briefing
Registration N87AW is a 1954 helicopter held by SUMMIT LEASING LLC. This briefing covers the charter economics and operational context for this rotorcraft.
Fleet Position
Over 10,000 helicopters are on active U.S. registrations. FAA data shows N87AW based in KENAI, AK. The U.S. helicopter fleet serves EMS, offshore oil and gas, law enforcement, utility, VIP transport, and flight training. Maintenance infrastructure is extensive, with turbine helicopter service available at most major airports.
Charter Availability
N87AW is Part 135 charter authorized. Helicopter charter rates range from $1,500 to $8,000 per flight hour depending on type and configuration. VIP helicopter charter serves urban transfers (Manhattan to JFK in 8 minutes), resort access, and event transportation where ground travel times exceed 2 hours.
Mission Profile
Core strength: access. Helicopters land where fixed-wing aircraft cannot: hospital rooftops, offshore platforms, mountain ridges, yacht decks, and city helipads. The value is not in speed over distance; it is in the elimination of the first-mile and last-mile problem that every other form of transportation faces.
When to Choose Something Else
Do not charter a helicopter for large groups. Most helicopters seat 4 to 7 passengers. For groups of 8+, a fixed-wing aircraft provides more capacity at lower per-seat costs.
Ownership & Operations
Part 91 operations cover owner-flown and company-flown aircraft under general operating rules. Part 135 governs on-demand air charter, requiring higher crew qualifications, maintenance standards, and operational oversight. An aircraft can operate under both parts: Part 91 for owner use and Part 135 when offered for charter revenue. Dual-use arrangements offset ownership costs by generating charter income during idle periods.
Pre-Purchase Considerations
Pre-purchase inspections are non-negotiable in aircraft acquisitions. A qualified maintenance facility conducts a detailed review of airframe, engines, avionics, and records. Inspection costs range from $15,000 to $75,000 depending on aircraft size and complexity. Findings from the pre-buy determine final pricing, identify upcoming maintenance events, and reveal any damage history that affects value.
Charter Market Context
Charter demand for business jets follows seasonal and economic patterns. Q4 (October through December) sees peak demand driven by year-end business travel, holiday flights, and tax planning (asset purchases before December 31). Q1 starts strong with CES, Davos, and Super Bowl driving specific route demand. Summer leisure travel to resort destinations creates predictable seasonal corridors.
N87AW Aircraft Intelligence
Cross-referenced from FAA Registry, Part 135 operator database, and live ADS-B telemetry.
Inquire About N87AW
This aircraft operates under an active FAA Part 135 certificate with Alaska West Air, Inc, making it legally authorized for on-demand charter. Contact us to check current availability and book your flight.
Contact UsDetailed Specifications
Aircraft Identity
| Registration | N87AW |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | DEHAVILLAND |
| FAA Model | DHC-3 |
| Serial Number | 52 |
| Year | 1954 |
| Aircraft Type | Fixed wing single engine |
| Category | Turboprop |
| Part 135 Operator | Alaska West Air, Inc |
| Owner (FAA) | SUMMIT LEASING LLC |
| Location | KENAI, AK |
Performance & Capabilities
| Engines | 1x P&W R-1340 Wasp (or PT6 upgrade) |
|---|---|
| Cruise Speed | 133 ktas (LRC: 120 kts) |
| Approximate Range | 820 NM |
| Passengers | Up to 10 |
| Registration Status | Valid (FAA) |
| Charter Status | Part 135 Authorized |
| D085 Listing | Active |
Frequently Asked Questions About N87AW
16 questions answered about this aircraft and the DEHAVILLAND DHC-3
N87AW is a 1954 DEHAVILLAND DHC-3 registered in the United States. It carries serial number 52 and is classified as a turboprop in the private aviation market. The aircraft has maintained continuous airworthiness for 28 years.
N87AW is a DEHAVILLAND DHC-3. This model serves the turboprop segment of the business aviation market. DEHAVILLAND has a well-established support network for this airframe.
N87AW is registered to SUMMIT LEASING LLC according to FAA records. The registrant is based in Kenai, AK. Registration data is sourced from the FAA Aircraft Registry and may not reflect recent ownership transfers.
The De Havilland DHC-3 was produced from 1951-1967. The type was succeeded by the DHC-6 Twin Otter. This specific aircraft (N87AW) was manufactured in 1954.
The manufacturer serial number is 52.
N87AW is registered in KENAI, AK.
Yes. N87AW holds an active Part 135 certificate under Alaska West Air, Inc, meaning it is legally authorized for on-demand charter operations. Contact The Jet Finder to check current availability.
N87AW is operated under the Part 135 certificate held by Alaska West Air, Inc.
N87AW is a fixed wing single engine classified as a Turboprop.
The De Havilland DHC-3 has a maximum cruise speed of 133 knots. Long-range cruise is 120 kts. Maximum operating Mach number is 150 kts.
The DEHAVILLAND DHC-3 has an approximate range of 820 nautical miles. This translates to nonstop coverage of routes like New York to Miami, Dallas to Denver, or Chicago to Atlanta. At a cruise speed of approximately 133 knots, total block times remain competitive for the category.
The De Havilland DHC-3 seats up to 10 passengers in a typical charter configuration. The cabin measures 16.4 ft long, 5.2 ft wide, and 5.0 ft tall. The cabin accommodates productive work or rest on flights of typical duration.
N87AW maintains a valid registration status with the FAA and is listed on the D085 Part 135 Aircraft Listing.
N87AW is listed on the FAA D085 Part 135 database under Alaska West Air, Inc. This confirms the aircraft is authorized for on-demand charter. Availability depends on the operator's schedule and positioning. Contact The Jet Finder to check current availability for this specific aircraft or similar models.
Contact The Jet Finder for acquisition inquiries regarding N87AW. Our advisory team handles both on-market and off-market transactions.
You can verify N87AW directly on the FAA Aircraft Registry.
From Your First Mission to Your Final Acquisition
Contact us about charter availability or acquisition. If this aircraft does not suit your needs, we have access to more than 15,000 private aircraft worldwide.