Quest honored as chamber's top business

Quest Aircraft, an aircraft manufacturing company in Sandpoint, was honored as business of the month for their successful contributions to the community and world with the production of their KODIAK aircraft.

 Started in 2001 with a staff of fourteen, Quest Aircraft was formed to design and manufacture a bush/utility aircraft suited to the needs of missionary and humanitarian aviation organizations.  Within a year, Quest Aircraft built a 27,000 sq. ft. plant at the Sandpoint Municipal Airport where work began on the prototype aircraft.  In 2007 the KODIAK gained FAA certification, and in 2005 the company completed a 57,000 sq. ft. expansion.

 The organization has grown significantly in the last few years.  Their $1,450,000 plane is on back order for the next 3 years, and every 10th plane is delivered to one of their participating mission/humanitarian organizations.  Most recently, the KODIAK s/n 0015 was donated to Samaritan’s Purse, an international relief and evangelism organization.

 Featured in Flying Magazine, GANews, AOPA Pilot, and Sandpoint Magazine, the KODIAK is a 10-seat single engine turboprop utility plane.  The aircraft is built with rugged construction, turbine power, and high useful load with the ability to handle a short takeoff and landing, easily handle unimproved airstrips, and designed for floats and amphibs.

 “We all benefit from the fact that Quest Aircraft Company has chosen Sandpoint for their home base,” said Ambassador Bill Justus from Mountain West Bank when presenting the award on behalf of the Chamber.  “What a contribution it is to our community to bring over 300 good paying jobs to our local economy.  Without question, that’s a significant impact,” he said.

 “Sandpoint has proven to be an excellent location for our company headquarters,” said Paul Schaller, President and CEO of Quest.  “It is a growing community that has met our needs as a company and also provides our employees with a wonderful quality of life.  We look forward to growing Quest Aircraft Company and expanding our employment here in Sandpoint in the years ahead.”

 “Sandpoint is also a great destination for our customers,” added Schaller.

“They really enjoy coming here with its friendly atmosphere, great attractions and restaurants.”

Greater Sandpoint Chamber of Commerce officials congratulated Quest Aircraft for the significant contributions they’ve made to the Greater Sandpoint community and the world.