Vanguard Air (callsign "Lifeline") specializes in remote transport of fuel and equipment primarily in not only Alaska, but also around the world should a mission call for it. Our diverse fleet includes a legendary set of aircraft, spanning from jets to pistons, fulfilling a variety of mission types.

The Fleet

Boeing 727 Freighter

Designed in the 1960s, the Boeing 727 was designed as a regional airliner to pair with the widely successful 707. Being the first jet airliner to incorporate an Auxiliary Power Unit, the aircraft was uniquely suited to operate off of existing short, unpaved runways. Larger than the later 737, the 727 boasts a uniquely large amount of payload into unprepared runways around the world, and to this day remains a perfect asset for moving large amounts of payload to remote and difficult destinations.

Transall C160

Designed as a cargo and troop transport for militaries across Europe in the cold war, the Transporter Allianz (Transall) C-160 is a medium-range twin-turboprop cargo aircraft perfectly suited to reaching remote landing strips across the world, and forms the backbone of Vanguard Air Cargo's fleet. With its versatile handling, the aircraft is capable of supporting missions in the most challenging of locations. C-160's rear hatch is capable of air-dropping cargo into locations without runways, making it perfect for not only large payloads, but roles in humanitarian, rescue, conservation, spill response, and much more.

Douglas DC-6

The mighty four-engine DC-6 is a pressurized transport aircraft that has been used in the north for decades. Its transcontinental range and large payload combined with its militaristic design is well suited for hauling large amounts of fuel and cargo, and can also be used in combi roles ferrying passengers and cargo to remote settlements.

Douglas DC-3/C-47 Skytrain

Holding a legendary status in World War Two, the "Dakota" or "Skytrain" as it was known is perfectly suited for the harsh conditions of the north. With modest take off performance and a famously rugged design, the DC-3 continues to fly essential air mail and freight to small communities and mining sites across Alaska.

De Haviland DHC-4 Caribou

Capable of landing in runways as short as 1200 feet, the DHC-4 provides a unique ability to fly into the most performance-restricted airstrips. Its rugged nature and considerable payload excel in bush operations and in harsh environments.

Lear 35A

Often better known in its role in cooperate aviation, Vanguard's Learjet 35A fleet is used for fast-response Medevac work. with a cruising speeds of 450 KTAS, the Lear 35A's speed proves vital for serving remote communities with reduced medical support.

Smaller Aircraft

• Pilatus PC-6 Porter
• Daher Kodiak 100
• De Haviland DHC-2 Beaver