First flown on 2 November 1977, the cruise speed of the aircraft was increased to . The engine mounted on the nose could be shut off, decreasing the speed to and increasing the range of the aircraft. It was used by
Polair and
Maritime Patrol and Rescue. It was fitted with skis for use in polar regions and flew in the North Pole region out of
Resolute Bay Airport in Canada. It was uniquely suited for flying long distances and landing on rough, unprepared snow runways. In this role it was instrumental in opening up the interior of
Antarctica to private expeditions and tourism. ==Specifications==