Industry veteran Robert H. Wells has joined Quest Aircraft as CEO, the company announced recently. Wells has more than 40 years of aviation experience, previously holding management positions with Tag Aviation, Beech Aircraft Corp. and Landmark Aviation. He also worked as a flight instructor and air-taxi pilot early in his career. “I look forward to being part of the team at Quest,” said Wells. “The Kodiak is a remarkably successful aircraft and the company has come a long way in the last few years. I am excited to be part of Quest’s next chapter.” Wells takes the job formerly held by Sam Hill, who retired in December.
Quest manufactures the Kodiak, a 10-place single-engine turboprop, designed for STOL use and operations on floats. Headquartered in Sandpoint, Idaho, the company was established in 2001 and began deliveries of the Kodiak in December 2007. The company now is aiming for global growth. Since 2012, the Kodiak has received 23 certifications covering 33 countries. In June, an expansion at the company’s Sandpoint headquarters was completed, adding 27,000 square feet and bringing the current building to 110,000 square feet. A 5,000-square-foot R&D hangar facility was finished, and includes new office space and hangar work space. Quest said plans for further expansion are underway.
