Month: April 2025

Photo by Nicole Alton

The De Havilland Beaver is a legend in the world of bush planes—and one aircraft in particular, N232KT, has an especially rich and impressive aviation legacy. With serial number 52, this aircraft was among the earliest De Havilland DHC-2 Beavers ever produced. In 2025, we proudly celebrate its 77th birthday, making it the oldest operating aircraft in our fleet.

Early Service in Ontario’s Forests

Originally registered as CF-OCQ, this De Havilland Beaver was delivered on May 27, 1949, and formally certified on June 1, 1949. Its first assignment was with the Department of Lands and Forests in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, where it was used for forest patrol and resource management. By 1954, it had already logged 1,909 flight hours, proving its value as a rugged and reliable workhorse in Canadian bush operations.

A Journey Across British Columbia

In 1967, CF-OCQ moved west, joining Alert Bay Air Service in British Columbia. By the mid-1970s, its registration transitioned to C-FOCQ, and it passed through the hands of several aviation companies including Gulf Air Aviation Ltd., Air BC, J. Pattinson Industries, and McCully Aviation Ltd. This time period reflected the aircraft’s growing legacy as a dependable floatplane across Canada’s coastlines and interior.

Multiple Operators and a Makeover

Between 1988 and 1996, the aircraft saw service with several operators such as Air Rainbow Ltd., Island Hopper Aviation, and Air Rainbow Mid Coast, flying out of Port McNeill and Campbell River. In 2001, it underwent a major transformation: a new white and green paint job, an interior overhaul, and new passenger comfort features including grey cloth seating, wood floor, and trim—restoring the aircraft while preserving its character.

In 2002, Sealand Aviation Ltd. performed a comprehensive rebuild in Campbell River, extending the aircraft’s life and reliability. Later that year, it was purchased by Pacific Wings Ltd. and remained in operation until October 2005, when it was exported to the United States and re-registered as N52CQ. Its first U.S. operator was Western Adventure Seaplanes Inc. in Missoula, Montana, followed by Beaver Aircraft LLC and Tube Air Racing LLC of South Dakota. By 2015, the Beaver had accumulated a staggering 26,100 flight hours.

N232KT: A Proud Member of Our Alaska Fleet

On March 23, 2016, we welcomed this remarkable aircraft into our fleet. It was re-registered as N232KT on May 31, 2016, and has been proudly serving Alaska ever since, continuing its legacy of rugged reliability in one of the world’s most demanding aviation environments.

The De Havilland Beaver is often called the “workhorse of the North”, and N232KT is a shining example of why this aircraft has earned such a reputation. Its continued service across Canada and Alaska, decades of utility in forestry, tourism, and bush flying, and incredible total flight hours make it a symbol of engineering excellence.

Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a history buff, or planning your next Alaska adventure, N232KT’s story is one worth celebrating. We’re honored to operate this aircraft and keep its legacy flying high.

Photo by Nicole Alton

Source: DHC-2 Archive

Redoubt Bay, located on the southwest side of Cook Inlet in Alaska, is part of the Redoubt Bay Critical Habitat Area—an important wildlife sanctuary known for its incredible bear viewing opportunities. This remote and scenic region is where coastal brown bears gather to feed on spawning salmon in the summer months. Surrounded by rugged mountains, lush wetlands, and pristine lakes, Redoubt Bay offers visitors a rare chance to observe bears in their natural habitat. It’s a true wilderness experience just a short floatplane flight from Anchorage.

On this tour you’ll explore the scenic chain of Big River Lakes aboard a covered pontoon boat, led by knowledgeable naturalist guides. These waters, home to sockeye and Coho salmon, are a favorite feeding spot for resident bears. Redoubt Bay is home to one of the most concentrated bear populations in the state of Alaska. This bear viewing destination draws both bears and fishermen alike. Choose from morning or afternoon departures for this half-day adventure, which lasts approximately 6 ½ hours. Extended and overnight packages are also available if you would like to spend more time in remote Alaska.

The Journey Begins: Scenic Flights Over Alaska’s Wild Beauty

You’ll begin your journey at Lake Hood, one of the world’s busiest floatplane base, where you’ll meet our friendly staff to check in. After being briefed by your pilot and loaded onto one of our classic aircraft, you’ll head southwest over Cook Inlet and the western edge of the Kenai Peninsula toward the foothills of Lake Clark National Park. Along the way, take in breathtaking views of rugged mountain ranges, shimmering glaciers, and the volcanic peaks of Mt. Redoubt and Mt. Iliamna. You might also spot Beluga whales in the waters of Cook Inlet or catch a glimpse of expansive tidal flats below. With two-way headsets, you can chat with your pilot about the region’s rich history and fascinating geology. Your pilot will choose the optimal route based on weather and the best scenic opportunities.

Bear Viewing: Redoubt Bay Lodge Experience

After a scenic 50-minute flight, you’ll arrive at the remote docks of Redoubt Bay Lodge—a charming, hand-crafted collection of rustic cabins nestled within a 171,000-acre critical habitat area. Located about 70 miles southwest of Anchorage, near the entrance to Lake Clark National Park, the lodge offers a truly wild and welcoming experience.

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the friendly lodge staff and board pontoon boats for an intimate wildlife tour surrounded by stunning mountain views. As you quietly float through the area, your naturalist guide will share insights about the bears, birds, and fish that call this region home. Redoubt Bay is home to a multitude of life including black and brown bears, salmon, and bald eagles.

Following your time on the water, if you are brave enough to try, your guide will lead you on a short barefoot walk across the Alaskan muskeg—an otherworldly floating bog that feels like a natural trampoline underfoot.

Before your return flight to Anchorage, you’ll be treated to a delicious hot meal at the lodge, often featuring fresh salmon and a crisp salad—an ideal way to end a day of unforgettable exploration.

What to Expect on Your Day Trip

• Departure: Your day begins at Lake Hood Seaplane Base in Anchorage. Here you’ll meet your pilot, our friendly staff, and receive a trip briefing.
• Scenic Flight: Enjoy a roughly 50 minute flight to Redoubt Bay with commentary highlighting the natural features.
• Bear Viewing: Upon arrival, you’ll spend several hours in prime bear viewing locations, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who enhances the experience insights about bear behavior and the local ecosystem.
• Return Journey: After a day of unforgettable sights and sounds, you’ll take to the skies once more for your scenic return flight to Anchorage.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Dress Appropriately: Layers are essential in Alaska’s variable weather. Bring comfortable sturdy footwear for walking around the lodge and boat docks.
• Pack Essentials: Binoculars, a camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent are must-haves for this trip.
• Follow Instructions: Listen to your guide’s advice and maintain a respectful distance from the wildlife to ensure your safety and the bears’ comfort.

Why Choose Rust’s Flying Service?

With over 60 years of experience, Rust’s Flying Service is a trusted name in Alaska aviation. Our commitment to safety, personalized service, and unforgettable experiences has made us a favorite among locals and visitors alike for six decades. When you choose Rust’s for your Redoubt Bay bear viewing adventure, you’re not just booking a tour—you’re embarking on a journey with a team that shares your passion for Alaska’s wild beauty. Rust’s Flying Service takes pride in adhering to responsible wildlife viewing practices. Guests are guided to designated viewing areas that ensure a safe and respectful distance from the bears, allowing you to observe their behavior without disrupting their routines.

Book Your Redoubt Bay Bear Viewing Tour Today

Redoubt Bay Bear Viewing Tour from Anchorage

When: June 6 – August 31

Cost: $1045 per person + 3% transportation tax

Trip Time: 6 1/2  hours

Departure Times: 8am and 12:30pm

Activity Level: Mild – small amount of walking

Experience the incredible sight of brown bears in their natural habitat on the Redoubt Bay Bear Viewing day tour with Rust’s Flying Service. With limited seats available during the short summer season, early reservations are recommended.

Visit Rust’s Flying Service to secure your spot and create unforgettable memories in the Alaskan wilderness.

Photo by Willis Thayer

We’ve been keeping a secret! Last month we recruited a new member to our team, a third De Havilland Otter joined our fleet at Rust’s. Welcome to N4899R!

Only 466 De Havilland Otters were manufactured with this Otter being one of the later ones with serial number 353. Only around 165 are still in service today with a vast majority servicing the back country of Canada and Alaska. Between Rust’s and our sister company K2 Aviation, we have 8 of those Otters still operating.

Originally delivered to the U.S. Army in February 1960, as serial 59-2215 (tail number 92215), Otter 353 served with various Army National Guard units including 1063rd based in Iowa. In December 1971, it joined the Florida National Guard where it served until 1973 when it was moved to the Mississippi National Guard. After 1976, it was assigned to the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) at Maxwell AFB, Alabama, and formally registered as N5335G. After receiving a Certificate of Airworthiness with 3,888 flight hours, it flew with the CAP for two years.

Alan Macey Collection

In 1978, the Otter was returned to Canada, where St. Louis Aviation in Québec prepared it for civilian use. It was registered as C-GVNX and entered service with Labrador Air Safari based in Baie Comeau, flying sportsmen into remote areas. Otter C-GVNX continued operations for more than four decades with Labrador Air Safari even after the company became part of Air Saguenay in 2010. In 2012, the Otter was flown to Vancouver for its turbine conversion and emerged as a Vazar DHC-3T fitted with a PT6A-34 engine.

Sometime in 2018, C-GVNX was sold to Air Tindi in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories where it faithfully served remote Canada until March of 2025.

Last month, C-GVNX arrived in Alaska and went straight into maintenance. We’re giving Otter 353 the full Rust’s treatment — the same care we’ve given our longtime friend N2899J (Otter 425) since 1989.

We’re excited to have N4899R ready for flights this summer!

Source: DHC-3 Archive

Photo by Nicole Alton

Photo by Nicole Alton