First new production Twin Otter in more than two decades made its initial flight this week. The aircraft, MSN 845, is a DHC-6-400 manufactured by Viking, which announced the production re-launch of the 18/20-passenger regional airline and utility turboprop in 2007. Viking, a unit of Westerkirk Capital, provides OEM support for the worldwide fleet of de Havilland heritage aircraft (DHC-1 through DHC-7). The Series 400 is powered by twin PT6A-34s and fitted with a Honeywell Primus Apex avionics suite. Canadian certification is expected shortly.

CIT Aerospace announced the delivery of two V2500-powered A320-200s to Cyprus Airways. A third is scheduled for delivery in May. BAE Systems said it will offer 13 former Lufthansa Avro RJ85s that are scheduled to be returned from next March through year end to Russian carriers operating aging aircraft such as Tu-134s and Yak-42s.

Boeing placed its fourth and final "Dreamlifter" 747-400 freighter into service Tuesday. Modified aircraft flew from Everett to Wichita, returning equipment used to transport a forward fuselage section for the 787.

Midex Airlines, an Al Ain-based cargo carrier, said it plans to take delivery of two 747-200Fs on March 30 and four 747-400Fs later this year. It currently operates six A300-200Fs and three 747-200Fs, according to its website. It also announced the appointment of George Ibrahim as COO.

World Airways will operate a 747-400F for Asiana Airlines from Feb. 23 through 2010.

Aircell named Centennial Communications CEO Michael Small president and CEO. Former Chairman Ron LeMay took over those roles last July and now will return to his previous position.

Recaro Aircraft Seating said it signed a contract with Airbus to offer its CL3620 economy class seats on the A350. Under the contract, Airbus will include the seat in its A350 catalog "upon successful qualification." Recaro said it was its first agreement reached directly with the manufacturer to supply seats as an Airbus Contracted Supplier.

Air Algerie took delivery of the first of four 66-seat ATR 72-500s ordered in December (ATWOnline, Dec. 9, 2009). The remaining three also will be delivered this year, lifting the size of its 72-500 fleet to 12. ATR said it will provide assistance to the Algerian flag carrier with the installation, commissioning and operation of a new flight simulator, which is part of AH's plan to open a pilot training center in Algeria.