The de Havilland Canada DHC-7 was the first STOL Airplane certified according to FAR25 criteria for transport. With design commencing on July 12, 1971 the first airframe commenced assembly in Hanger #1 at Downsview in September 1972.  Her first flight was on March 27th, 1975 at 11:45 AM...a brief single circuit west from Downsview around Toronto Pearson then east along Highway 401 and back to Downsview a flight lasting 17 minutes. 

The first aircraft was delivered to Rocky Mountain Airways in February 1978. Following this delivery, another 99 were delivered but due to the recession of the early 80's following the sale to Boeing production was terminated.

The downfall of this aircraft was not only the recession but her high operating costs too expensive for the small carriers who purchased this aircraft to maintain.  In addition, the DHC-8 was introduced, faster, higher with similar STOL abilities and less expense to operate.

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