Story ID: 
Quest Expands Under New Ownership
By: Kerry Lynch
Caption: Quest is nearly doubling its footprint in Sandpoint, Idaho as it ramps up production and eyes next product.
Word Count: 452
Less than six months after it was acquired by Japanese firm Setouchi Holdings, Quest Aircraft is making plans to nearly double its factory space in Sandpoint, Idaho, as it ups production and eyes a second product. Quest will begin construction in August on the 75,000-sq-ft expansion that will include a new facility along with an increase in the existing facilities. Slated for completion by year-end, the project will increase Quest’s total footprint to 159,000 sq ft. 

Steve Zinda, vice president of sales for Europe, the Middle East, China and Africa, said the space will help the company “gain some efficiencies in processes.” This comes as Quest has worked closely with its new ownership to look at potential improvements in its manufacturing efforts. Zinda noted that Setouchi has a clear vision about helping Quest become a market leader. At the same time, Setouchi has backed the management team, which has remained unchanged, and the company’s direction.

The expansion comes as the manufacturer of the Kodiak turboprop single expands its work force. A year ago, it employed 165 workers; now that number is 210 and growing as Quest increases production. Last year the company produced 26 aircraft, but delivered 32. This year the production number is growing to 32, and Zinda said the company is evaluating further increases next year.

Quest still is saying little about the second product, but Zinda reiterated that Quest never intended to be a one-aircraft company. He also reconfirmed the next aircraft likely would be in the area where Quest has developed expertise, noting that Setouchi will enable Quest reach this goal.

At the same time, having ownership by a large Japanese company—Setouchi is part of the Tsuneishi Group—is opening new doors, Zinda said. He noted new international financial firms have taken interest in working with the company. It is also expanding the Quest name in the marketplace.

Setouchi subsidiary Setouchi Trading has been an authorized dealer for more than a year, and this relationship paved the way for the acquisition by the parent company. Zinda said this has translated into interest in sales, both within Japan and elsewhere. The company is seeking validation in Japan, which will join 19 other validations covering 29 countries. Additionally, Quest is progressing on its effort to secure European validation, Zinda said.

Quest further is expanding its presence in India, naming Thumby Aviation its exclusive dealer for the Kodiak. Along with India, Thumby will represent Quest in Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and Sri Lanka. “[Thumby is] an experienced helicopter charter provider and holds several government contracts, so its expertise will transfer well to marketing the Kodiak,” Zinda said. Quest now has 12 dealers worldwide.