News and Press Releases — Cessna Forum

Yellowknife Bush Pilot Fly-In (July 18 and 19, 2025)

kbrezinski — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 20:26:57 +0000

The Northwest Territories Flying Association (COPA Flight 108) will be hosting the 2025 Yellowknife Bush Pilot Fly-In on July 18 and 19, 2025 in Yellowknife, NT. Planned activities include an evening meet-and-greet, fly-out picnic at a remote lake, dockside BBQ dinner, and great aviation conversation. Advance online registration is required. Visit our website at www.flyingnwt.com for more information and registration.

UL94 and cadmium?

93062800004 — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 13:48:08 +0000

Is this a potential problem?

https://asrs.arc.nasa.gov/publications/callback/cb_539.html

2023 Midnight Sun Fly In - Yellowknife, NT - July 6 to 9, 2023

kbrezinski — Sat, 27 May 2023 17:07:47 +0000

The Midnight Sun Fly In Association will be hosting the 2023 Midnight Sun Fly In from July 6 - 9, 2023 in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada. Planned activities include a bus pilot slideshow by Dominique Prinet, fly-out lunch, live entertainment, dockside dining, pancake breakfast, bush pilot memorial, and great aviation conversation. Experience incredible backcountry flying in Canada's spectacular Northwest Territories! Float and wheel planes welcome. See our website at www.midnightsunflyin.com for more information.

Plexiglas chart holder console

Lemartiniii — Mon, 17 Oct 2022 21:14:12 +0000

Either Oct/Nov an article mentioned reissue of above item. Goes between Pilot/copilot seats. Need info on where to purchase. Thx Larry

COO Announces David Clark DC-OneX headset sweepstakes!

Scott Sherer — Wed, 12 May 2021 02:33:08 +0000

Click here to find out more about our sweepstakes!

https://cessnaowner.org/david-clark-sweepstakes-rules/

Apollo 11 Astronaut Michael Collins mourned

Scott Sherer — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 02:15:41 +0000

NASA astronaut, former Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum director, and National Aviation Hall of Fame member Michael Collins has died at age 90. After the Apollo 11 command module pilot left the space agency, Collins ushered in the opening of the museum in 1976, which has since set the standard for large exhibits.

Aviation in the News: 737Max and Mooney.

Scott Sherer — Wed, 13 Nov 2019 14:39:27 +0000

The following two items are courtesy of Avweb:

737Max: Boeing believes it could resume deliveries of its grounded 737 MAX model as early as December, according to a progress report released by the company on Monday. The report also outlined five key milestones the company needs to reach with the FAA before the aircraft returns to service in the U.S. The first, an FAA eCab simulator certification session, was completed last week. Boeing emphasized that it is still targeting the final quarter of 2019 for certification of the aircraft’s updated flight control software.
“Based on this schedule, it is possible that the resumption of MAX deliveries to airline customers could begin in December, after certification, when the FAA issues an Airworthiness Directive rescinding the grounding order,” Boeing said. “In parallel, we are working towards final validation of the updated training requirements, which must occur before the MAX returns to commercial service, and which we now expect to begin in January.”
The milestones still to be accomplished include a “multi-day simulator session with airline pilots to assess human factors and crew workload,” an FAA certification flight test, submission of the “final certification deliverables and artifacts” to the FAA and a simulator training evaluation by the Joint Operational Evaluation Board (JOEB). Last week, both Southwest and American Airlines pushed the expected return to service dates for their MAXs to March 2020. The MAX was grounded in March 2019 after the fatal crashes of Lion Air Flight 610 and Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302.
https://www.avweb.com/recent-updates/business-military/boeing-targets-december-for-new-max-deliveries/?MailingID=225&utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=737+MAX+Deliveries+Could+Start+in+December,+Mooney+Shuts+Down+++FlightSafety+Brings+AI+to+Training&utm_campaign=737+MAX+Deliveries+Could+Start+in+December,+Mooney+Shuts+Down+++FlightSafety+Brings+AI+to+Training+-+Wednesday+November+13,+2019
Mooney: Two weeks before Thanksgiving, Kerrville, Texas-based Mooney Aircraft has reportedly shut down and released its entire staff, the Kerrville Daily Times is reporting. The Times reported and we can confirm that Mooney’s voicemail system states that “At this time, all Mooney employees have been furloughed and therefore we cannot take your call.” We have been unable to reach any of Mooney’s staff or management, and we understand that the firm’s workforce was down to just 50 preceding the furlough.
To those watching Mooney’s sales numbers over the first half of this year, the shutdown is probably not a huge surprise. According to GAMA sales records, Mooney sold two Acclaim Ultras in each of the first two quarters, after selling 14 aircraft at a value of $10.7 million in 2018. For context, Cirrus sold 203 aircraft in the first half of 2019, while Mooney’s output trailed Extra, Pipistrel and Quest’s.
At AirVenture 2018, Mooney said that it intended to build 20 aircraft that year but would ramp up toward 40 in 2019 and maintain 50 aircraft a year starting in 2020. Mooney’s workers were furloughed in 2017, four years after restarting production under new owners Soaring America Aircraft. Mooney had not been producing new aircraft for nearly five years before that. The last Acclaim Ultras to roll out the door were valued at nearly $850,000 each.
https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/mooney-shut-down-employees-furloughed/?MailingID=225&utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=737+MAX+Deliveries+Could+Start+in+December,+Mooney+Shuts+Down+++FlightSafety+Brings+AI+to+Training&utm_campaign=737+MAX+Deliveries+Could+Start+in+December,+Mooney+Shuts+Down+++FlightSafety+Brings+AI+to+Training+-+Wednesday+November+13,+2019

Garmin and Piper Announce Autoland!

Scott Sherer — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 20:36:10 +0000

Piper Announces Next Generation M600 SLS with Autoland.

(http://www.piper.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/19-PIPER-1608-M600-SLS-Product-Brochure_Website.pdf

Here's an autoland link: https://www.facebook.com/AOPApilots/videos/461965444422214/

uAvionix and Garmin Settle Law Suit

Scott Sherer — Fri, 18 Oct 2019 14:48:53 +0000

Hi everyone,
We're all interested in how the lawsuit from Garmin > uAvionix got resolved. Here are some interesting links:
https://uavionix.com/uavionix-statement-patent/
https://www.avweb.com/avionics/adsb/garmin-uavionix-resolve-patent-lawsuit/
https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2019/october/17/uavionix-garmin-settle-suit

Corporate ADS-B Problems

Scott Sherer — Mon, 23 Sep 2019 13:20:12 +0000

A major avionics shop says about 5,000 business aircraft will miss the Jan. 1 deadline to be equipped with ADS-B. Duncan Aviation, which has been closely monitoring equipage data, said in a report last week that with 16 weeks to go before the end of the year, 23 percent, or 3,384 business jets, don’t have the gear. “At this rate, we anticipate that at least 1,660 business jets will not be in compliance when the calendar flips to Jan. 1, 2020,” said Matt Nelson, manager of satellite operations for Duncan. The equipage issue for turboprops is more acute.
Duncan estimates 49 percent of the turboprop business aircraft fleet didn’t meet the mandate as of mid-September and there will be 3,800 barred from most controlled airspace when the ball drops. Shops will be busy in the final weeks before the deadline and Duncan says the turnaround is about 10 days for the average installation. Tic Toc.

By Russ Niles, AVweb

Chris Kraft Dead at 95.

Scott Sherer — Tue, 23 Jul 2019 02:32:04 +0000

NASA's first flight director, Chris Kraft dead at 95.

https://www.foxnews.com/science/chris-kraft-nasa-flight-director-dead

Boeing Has Purchased Foreflight

Scott Sherer — Wed, 06 Mar 2019 20:35:00 +0000

Boeing has announced today, March 6, 2019, that it has purchased Foreflight.

Whelen Aircraft Lighting Buys Lopresti Aviation

Scott Sherer — Mon, 04 Feb 2019 13:48:20 +0000

Whelen Engineering, manufacturer of aircraft lamps and strobe lights, announced Friday that is has acquired LoPresti Aviation, another manufacturer of aircraft lighting systems and aircraft mods. The new business unit is to be called Whelen Aerospace Technologies or WAT, will be based in Connecticut, Whelen Engineering’s headquarters.

GPS Interference Testing

Scott Sherer — Thu, 29 Nov 2018 15:08:48 +0000

Sent: Thursday, November 29, 2018 8:33 AM
Subject: "FLIGHT ADVISORY - GPS Interference Testing - Fort Knox, KY" - FAASafety.gov

FAA Safety Team | Safer Skies Through Education

FLIGHT ADVISORY - GPS Interference Testing - Fort Knox, KY
Notice Number: NOTC8222
FLIGHT ADVISORY - GPS Interference Testing
FORT KNOX KENTUCKY (FKKY) 18-78
02 - 06 December 2018
Fort Knox, KY
Centered at 375208N0855248W or the IIU230020
The entire advisory is attached to this posting.

Latest Garmin Press Releases on Pilot Application

Scott Sherer — Wed, 18 Jul 2018 18:29:47 +0000

Attachment not found. Attachment not found. Attachment not found. Attached are the latest pre-Oshkosh Press Releases on Garmin Pilot Application Software

Garmin Announces New ADS-B/FIS-B Weather Products

Scott Sherer — Fri, 13 Jul 2018 08:52:30 +0000

[FONT=&]Garmin announces support for new FIS-B weather products announced by FAA. See attachments for details.[/FONT]

Attachment not found. Attachment not found. Attachment not found.

Cessna Denali Update Press Release

Scott Sherer — Wed, 30 May 2018 16:13:21 +0000

Textron building Cessna Denali prototypes
Textron Aviation has started building the first flying prototypes of its new Cessna Denali single-engine turboprop. The plane has room for a pilot and four passengers and will feature the new 1,240 shp GE Catalyst turboprop engine, Garmin 3000 touch-screen avionics suite, solid-state weather radar, advanced Terrain Awareness Warning System and ADS-B capabilities.

Garmin receives approval for the GFC 600 autopilot in Various Aircraft Models

Scott Sherer — Mon, 21 May 2018 09:17:55 +0000

Garmin receives approval for the GFC 600 autopilot in the Baron 58 and Cessna 340 aircraft models

Dateline:
Olathe, KS

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April 26, 2018 - Garmin is pleased to announce it has received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Supplemental Type Certification (STC) for the GFC 600 autopilot for the Baron 58/58A (1984 model year or later) and Cessna 340/340A aircraft. Intended for high performance piston single/twin-engine and turbine aircraft that have a wide range of speed and performance capabilities, the GFC 600 delivers superior in-flight characteristics, self-monitoring technologies and minimal maintenance needs when compared to older generation autopilot systems.
The GFC 600 is designed as a standalone autopilot that boasts superior integration potential with the G500 TXi/G600 TXi and the G500/G600 glass flight displays, Garmin navigators, as well as a variety of third-party flight displays, instruments and navigation sources. The self-contained autopilot controller incorporates backlit keys and a bright, sunlight readable display that depicts autopilot status and mode selection. An intuitive built-in control wheel also provides convenient adjustment of aircraft pitch, airspeed and vertical speed modes. When the level button is selected, the aircraft automatically returns to straight-and-level flight. Environmentally hardened autopilot servos designed for harsh operating conditions contain brushless DC motors and a gear train that eliminates the need for a mechanical slip clutch, offering improved performance and reducing maintenance requirements when compared to decades-old servo designs on the market today. Standard mark-width design of the GFC 600 ensures the autopilot controller allows for routine installation into the aircraftâ€™s avionics stack. Autopilot mode annunciation is available on the G500 TXi, G600 TXi touchscreen glass flight displays, as well as the G500 and G600. The addition of an optional autopilot annunciator panel also displays the selected autopilot mode in the pilotâ€™s primary field of view and retains an identical footprint of third-party autopilot annunciators on the market.
In addition to traditional autopilot capabilities such as altitude hold, vertical speed and heading modes, the GFC 600 also includes:
Premium functions and advanced capabilities such as altitude pre-select1 and indicated airspeed hold mode. VNAV will be a growth function when appropriately equipped.
Pilots can select, couple and fly various instrument approaches, including GPS, ILS, VOR, LOC and back course approaches2.
Built-in GPS roll steering capability eliminates the need for external roll steering converters, allowing for smoother navigation tracking when installed with a compatible navigator.
Level Mode button, which automatically engages the autopilot to restore the aircraft to straight and level flight.
Underspeed protection helps prevent the pilot from stalling the aircraft.
Overspeed protection helps prevent the pilot from exceeding aircraft maximum speed (VNE).
With the addition of an optional yaw servo, Yaw Damper (YD) mode minimizes yawing oscillations while also helping to maintain coordinated flight by keeping the slip/skid indicator centered.
Flight Director command bars can be displayed on a variety of flight displays, such as the G500 TXi/G600 TXi and select third-party flight displays.
Pilots can fly coupled â€˜go-aroundsâ€™ during missed approach sequencing. A remotely-installed go-around button commands the Flight Director to display the appropriate pitch attitude required for the missed approach procedure and activates a loaded missed approach when paired with a GTN 650/750 navigator.
An optional pitch-trim servo adds automatic trim and manual electric trim.
Control wheel steering is available, which allows the pilot to adjust pitch, roll, altitude hold, vertical speed or airspeed references using the control yoke while the autopilot is engaged.
As a standard feature, pilots receive Garmin ESP with the GFC 600 autopilot, which works to assist the pilot in maintaining the aircraft in a stable flight condition. ESP functions independently of the autopilot and works in the background to help pilots avoid inadvertent flight attitudes or bank angles and provide airspeed protection while the pilot is hand-flying the aircraft.
Garmin also expects to further expand its list of aircraft models approved for the GFC 600 autopilot. Upcoming aircraft models include:
Beechcraft Baron 58/58TC/58P (1983 model year or earlier)
Cessna 208B
Cessna 414A
Cessna 421C
Piper PA-46 (310P, 350P*)
TBM 700A/B/C1/C2/N (TBM 850)
The GFC 600 autopilot has received FAA STC in the Baron 58/58A (1984 model year or later) and the Cessna 340/340A and is available for a suggested retail price starting at $23,995 and $22,995 respectively for a 2-axis autopilot with electric trim. Visit Garmin.com/GFC600Aircraft to view the most up-to-date information regarding current and future certification programs for the GFC 600 autopilot. To express interest for the certification of either the GFC 600 or GFC 500 autopilot in additional aircraft types, contact aviation.sales@garmin.com and provide specific aircraft make/model information. For additional information, visit: www.garmin.com/aviation.
1. Available on Garmin flight displays.
2. GFC 600 requires an external navigator for navigation and approach functions.
*Jet Prop not included in initial certification

Garmin Incorporates New iOS Weather Features

Scott Sherer — Mon, 21 May 2018 09:14:52 +0000

Garmin Pilot iOS incorporates new weather features, airspace alerting and more

Wednesday, May 9, 2018 10:26 am CDT

Dateline:
Olathe, KS

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May 9, 2018 - Garmin is pleased to announce the addition of new features to the Garmin Pilot application for Apple mobile devices. Just in time for the Spring flying season, Garmin Pilot 9.3 incorporates several new weather enhancements that aid in identifying storm cell movement and icing levels, as well as airspace alerting. With the latest version for iOS, pilots can also view improvements made to the display of traffic, runway extended centerlines and more.
Flight profile view adds icing
When viewing the flight profile view alongside a flight plan within Garmin Pilot, customers can easily view the probability or severity of icing and overall icing potential. Within the Flight Profile view, light green, yellow and red shading indicate an increasing probability that icing may occur at a particular altitude.
Storm cell movement
The radar overlay on the moving map has been enhanced to include the projected path of a storm cell. An orange circle paired with a line that extends from the strongest storm cells display the potential path of that storm cell and where itâ€™s predicted to be located in 15, 30, 45 and 60-minute intervals. If hail or tornadic activity is present, a corresponding icon will also be displayed alongside the particular storm cell line. By selecting the storm cell icon on the radial menu, pilots can view additional information within the storm cell, including speed, direction and more.
Airspace alerting
Garmin Pilot 9.3 adds airspace alerting to notify pilots prior to entering select airspace segments. Pilots can select airspace alerts within the settings page and choose individual airspace types they want to receive alerts for while in-flight.
SiriusXM Surface Analysis
Pilots that utilize a GDL 69, GDL 51 or GDL 52 who also have a valid SiriusXM Aviation Weather subscription, can now view the surface analysis layer on the moving map. Isobars, pressure systems, fronts, troughs, ridges and more can be viewed alongside flight plan information to easily determine whether a frontal system may impact a particular flight.
Traffic enhancements
Pilots can now utilize pinch-to-zoom gestures on the traffic page to zoom in and out to view traffic targets on the traffic page when Garmin Pilot is paired with an ADS-B In receiver. Pilots can also select whether traffic information is displayed in relative altitude (altitude relative to own-ship) or absolute altitude (altitude relative to the ground) so itâ€™s easier to identify traffic targets that may pose a threat.
Additional features:
Extended runway centerlines have been improved to display mile marker segments so itâ€™s easier to determine distance from the runway while on final approach.
Garmin Pilot has been optimized to support the high resolution, all-screen design of the Apple iPhone X.
Additions to the aircraft library
The Garmin Pilot aircraft library has grown to include new aircraft performance profiles for Cessna, Mooney and Piper.
Garminâ€™s aviation business segment is a leading provider of solutions to OEM, aftermarket, military and government customers. Garminâ€™s portfolio includes navigation, communication, flight control, hazard avoidance, an expansive suite of ADS-B solutions and other products and services that are known for innovation, reliability, and value. For more information about Garminâ€™s full line of avionics, go to www.garmin.com/aviation.

Avidyne Announces New ADS-B In Product

Scott Sherer — Mon, 21 May 2018 09:11:00 +0000

Avidyne Press Release
Avidyne Partners with FreeFlight for ADS-B In

Melbourne, FL â€“ Wednesday, March 14, 2018 â€“
Avidyne Corporation, a leading provider of integrated avionics systems, displays, and safety systems for general aviation aircraft, announced they have partnered with FreeFlight Systems (FFS) of Irving, TX, who will be providing their FFS RANGR products for Avidyne customers where demand for ADS-B IN functionality exists. Avidyne will offer a bundled FFS RANGR ADS-B IN receiver with their IFDs and ADS-B OUT-capable Mode S Transponders.

â€œWith the transition to this FreeFlight partnership, we are pleased to be offering uninterrupted delivery of an ADS-B IN solution as part of our successful IFD/ADS-B bundle, in lieu of the legacy SkyTrax100,â€ said Mitch Biggs, Avidyneâ€™s Vice President of Sales & Marketing. â€œOur IFD550/540/440 product line provides beautiful display and overlay on the moving map of FIS-B weather and ADS-B traffic from the RANGR, and the IFDs are also the approved GPS position source. â€

â€œOur SkyTrax100 product, which was supplied to Avidyne by NavWorx. As has been well publicized, NavWorx found themselves in a position of non-compliance on their ADS-B OUT product and for financial reasons has closed the company,â€ said Ed Paulsen, Avidyneâ€™s Vice President of New Business Development. â€œThe SkyTrax 100 product is â€˜ADS-B IN Onlyâ€™ and was unaffected by the compliance issues, and Avidyne was able to procure a significant number of the SkyTrax100 units before NavWorx closed their doors. However, the increasing demand of our IFD products has now consumed the SkyTrax100 inventory. Avidyne will continue to provide repair services for SkyTrax 100 units under the factory warranty.â€

Pricing and Availability

With Avidyneâ€™s ADS-B / IFD promotions, customers will still get an ADS-B IN product and the UAT IN functionality is unchanged at $2,499. However, going forward the RANGR FDL-978-RX ADS-B IN product will be shipped and supported directly by FreeFlight Systems.

Avidyne IFD customers can purchase a SkyTrax AXP340 or AXP322 Mode S Transponder with ADS-B OUT and a RANGR FDL-978-RX for ADS-B IN for a bundled price of $4,499.

Longitude Circles Globe: 31,000 Miles in 31 days.

Scott Sherer — Sun, 20 May 2018 22:22:19 +0000

WICHITA, Kan. (March 12, 2018) â€“ Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron, Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today announced the Cessna Citation Longitude has successfully circumnavigated the globe, demonstrating its commanding performance and impressive reliability to customers along the way. Throughout its world tour, the Longitude traveled more than 31,000 nautical miles, flew 27 legs and visited 12 countries.
â€œThis far-reaching tour enabled us to fulfill the mounting demand from customers around the world to experience this stunningly capable and impressive aircraft,â€ said Rob Scholl, senior vice president of Sales and Marketing. â€œAfter successfully circling the globe and showcasing its outstanding performance and reliability throughout diverse regions and a wide array of environmental conditions, the Longitude reinforced its ability to suit the needs of operators worldwide.â€
The Longitude commenced its world tour on January 27 when the aircraft departed Textron Aviation headquarters in Wichita, Kansas, for its Asia-Pacific debut at the Singapore Airshow. The aircraft then toured throughout the region and demonstrated its outstanding long-range performance with the 3,504-nautical mile flight from Seletar, Singapore to Sydney, Australia. Before returning to the United States, the Longitude flew throughout Europe, making stops for customers in Sweden, France, Italy, Switzerland and the U.K.
On its return flight to the United States, the Citation Longitude flew a crew of two pilots and two passengers on the 3,094-nautical-mile trip from Farnborough, U.K. (EGLF) to White Plains, New York (HPN), for a flight time of 6 hours 50 minutes and a crossing speed of Mach 0.82.
â€œWe are extremely happy with the affirming feedback we have consistently received throughout the Longitudeâ€™s worldwide tour,â€ Scholl said. â€œWith production in full swing and type certification and entry into service approaching, we look forward to introducing this superior aircraft to the market.â€
About the Citation Longitude
With a range of 3,500 nautical miles (6,482 kilometers) and full fuel payload of 1,600 pounds (726 kilograms), the Citation Longitude is designed to elevate passenger expectations in the super-midsize class by delivering the quietest cabin, a low cabin altitude (5,950 feet/1,814 meters), more standard features and a comfortable, bespoke interior. With seating for up to 12 passengers, including an optional crew jump seat, the Longitude features a stand-up, 6-foot tall flat-floor cabin. A standard double-club configuration delivers the most legroom in the super-midsize class. Fully berthable seats are designed and manufactured in-house and a class-leading walk-in baggage compartment is accessible throughout the entire flight. State-of-the-art cabin technology enables passengers to manage their environment and entertainment from any mobile device, while high-speed internet maximizes in-flight productivity.
The clean-sheet design of the Longitude integrates the latest technology throughout the aircraft, bringing customers the lowest ownership cost in its class. It features the next evolution of the Garmin G5000 flight deck and is powered by FADEC-equipped Honeywell HTF7700L turbofan engines with fully integrated autothrottles with envelope protection. With Garminâ€™s new Head-up Display (GHD 2100) and enhanced vision capability, the Longitude facilitates eyes-up flying. The spacious cockpit incorporates easier access and an ergonomic design that fully focuses on crew comfort and efficiency.
No super-midsize business jet offers more range, greater payload or higher cruise speed at a lower expected total ownership cost. The Longitude is designed to feature the longest maintenance intervals in its class â€“ 800 hours or 18 months â€“ expected to make it the most cost effective to operate in its category.

###

About Textron Aviation Inc.
Textron Aviation Inc. is the leading general aviation authority and home to the Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker brands, which account for more than half of all general aviation aircraft flying. For more than 90 years, the Textron Aviation brands have represented unrivaled innovation, performance and leadership in the industry, offering an unmatched value proposition rooted in the total ownership experience. Leveraging unparalleled speed-to-market, Textron Aviation provides the most versatile and comprehensive business and general aviation product portfolio in the world through five principal lines of business: business jets, general aviation and special mission turboprop aircraft, high performance piston aircraft, military trainer and defense aircraft and a complete global customer service organization. Textron Aviation has delivered more than 250,000 aircraft in over 143 countries. Its broad range of products include such best-selling aircraft as Citation business jets, King Air and Caravan turboprops and T-6 military trainer aircraft, all of which are backed by the industryâ€™s most capable global service network. For more information, visit www.txtav.com.

SkyCourier Completes Initial Wind Tunnel Testing

Scott Sherer — Sun, 20 May 2018 22:20:45 +0000

WICHITA, Kan. (March 13, 2018) â€“ Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, today announced it has completed initial wind tunnel testing of its new twin-engine Cessna SkyCourier turboprop. Results from comprehensive wind tunnel tests will provide performance and aerodynamic characteristics and structural load data, further finalizing the aircraft design.

â€œFor the initial wind tunnel testing, we use a custom, precision model with electric motors and scaled propellers calibrated to represent the thrust produced by the real aircraft,â€ said Brad Thress, senior vice president, Engineering. â€œWeâ€™re making outstanding progress in the development of this clean-sheet aircraft and are eager to continue defining the details that will allow us to start creating tools and parts.â€

Since Textron Aviation announced the Cessna SkyCourier in November 2017, the company has seen tremendous interest from operators looking for a modern solution in the large twin-utility space. As part of the aircraftâ€™s design development, the company is garnering feedback from its Customer Advisory Board â€“ empowering operators to affirm what customers need in this segment.

â€œThe flexibility and mission potential for the Cessna SkyCourier is attractive to a wide variety of operators,â€ said Thress. â€œThe feedback weâ€™re gathering from the CAB is extremely important as we develop an aircraft that is reliable, efficient and meets the diverse requirements of an array of mission profiles.â€

The company is anticipating first flight of the Cessna SkyCourier in 2019 with entry into service in 2020.

About the Cessna SkyCourier
The Cessna SkyCourier is a twin-engine, high-wing, large utility turboprop that will offer a combination of high performance and low operating costs for air freight, commuter and special mission operators. The freighter variant will feature a large cargo door and a flat floor cabin that is sized to handle up to three LD3 shipping containers with an impressive 6,000 pounds of maximum payload capability. The aircraft will also afford a maximum cruise speed of up to 200 ktas and a 900 nautical-mile maximum range.

The efficient 19-passenger variant will include crew and passenger doors for smooth boarding, as well as large cabin windows for great natural light and views. Both configurations will offer single-point pressure refueling to enable faster turnarounds. The aircraft will be powered by two wing-mounted Pratt & Whitney PT6A-65SC turboprop engines, and operated with Garmin G1000 NXi avionics.

The Cessna SkyCourier will be backed by Textron Aviationâ€™s service network, a world leader in commuter, cargo and special mission fleet support.

Images:
Cessna SkyCourier
Wind tunnel testing 1
Wind tunnel testing 2

Additional information:
Visit the Cessna SkyCourier website to learn more about the companyâ€™s newest product.
For Textron Aviationâ€™s latest news, visit the online newsroom.

Skyhawk See Increased Demand In China

Scott Sherer — Sun, 20 May 2018 22:19:29 +0000

SHANGHAI (April 17, 2018) â€“ Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, today announced at ABACE 2018 (Asian Business Aviation Conference and Exhibition) that it has received orders for 52 Cessna Skyhawk aircraft. All deliveries are expected to be completed within 2018.

â€œChina's 13th Five-Year Plan brings out favorable policies to boost general aviation development, leading to unprecedented opportunities in the aviation training market. In China, the aviation market and pilot training are growing quickly and steadily, resulting in greater demand for high-quality training aircraft,â€ said Kevin Wu, Vice President of International Sales, Greater China and Mongolia. â€œAmong Textron Aviationâ€™s highly-recognized training products, the Cessna Skyhawk is known for its reliability, flexibility and economic efficiency, and it continues to be a leader in pilot training around the world.â€

New orders include:
Hairuo General Aviation Co., Ltd. ordered 39 Cessna Skyhawk aircraft. â€œThe world-renowned Cessna Skyhawk is the ideal aircraft for pilot training,â€ said Maosen Chen, President of Hairuo General Aviation Co., Ltd. â€œMany of these newly purchased Cessna Skyhawks are for firm orders from end-customers ranging from aviation academies, aviation clubs, general aviation operators, newly established general aviation enterprises and flight schools. A few will join our own fleet to meet the growing needs for our aviation training business. Along with Textron Aviation, we are committed to contributing to the development of the general aviation industry in China by improving its training, operations, sales and service system.â€
Hubei Sky-Blue International Aviation Academy Co., Ltd ordered 13 Cessna Skyhawk aircraft. â€œSince its establishment in 2007, Hubei Sky- Blue International Aviation Academy Co., Ltd has acquired a fleet of Cessna Skyhawks,â€ said Song Jin, President of Hubei Sky-Blue International Aviation Academy Co., Ltd. â€œAuthorized by Textron Aviation as a Sales Representative and a Service Facility for piston aircraft in China in 2015, Hubei Sky-Blue International Aviation Academy Co. Ltd. has been constantly developing the flight training market not only to meet the companyâ€™s growth but also to support the general aviation industry in China. The company has signed purchase agreements with end-users, and there are solid prospects for the 13 units of Cessna Skyhawk aircraft to be purchased in 2018. In the next five years the company plans to purchase an additional 50 Cessna Skyhawks and some business jets.â€

Both Hairuo General Aviation Co., Ltd. and Hubei Sky-Blue International Aviation Academy Co., Ltd. are authorized sales representatives and authorized service facilities for Cessna piston aircraft in China. Textron Aviation will continue to work with these two companies and other pilot training institutions dedicated to filling the gaps in Chinaâ€™s flight training market and propelling the growth of civil aviation.

About Cessna Skyhawk
The Skyhawk platform is the world standard for pilot training and is renowned for offering the best combination of modern features, including the leading Garmin G1000 NXi avionics system with wireless connectivity, a standard Angle-of-Attack display system and proven dependability. The aircraftâ€™s high-wing design enables superior flying characteristics ideally suited for pilot training. More Skyhawks have been delivered to customers around the world than any other type of aircraft, with more than 44,000 put into service.

Lattitude To Make ABACE debut following deliveries in China

Scott Sherer — Sun, 20 May 2018 22:17:56 +0000

SHANGHAI (April 17, 2018) â€“ Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, today announced its best-selling midsize business jet â€“ the Citation Latitude â€“ will make its show debut at the Asian Business Aviation Conference & Exhibition (ABACE) in Shanghai from April 17 -19.

â€œShow attendees are sure to be impressed when they experience first-hand the best-selling Citation Latitude,â€ said Jessica Pruss, president, Asia Pacific sales and marketing. â€œFollowing the Latitudeâ€™s second year as the best-selling midsize business jet â€” and on the heels CAAC certification and the first deliveries into China â€” visitors will see for themselves why this aircraft is gaining traction throughout the Asia Pacific region and around the world.â€

Since its market introduction in 2015, the Latitude has reigned as the best-selling midsize business jet in the world, with a global fleet of more than 110 aircraft. Following Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) certification this year, Textron Aviation recently delivered the first two Latitudes into China to Emper General Aviation (Suzhou) Co., Ltd. for use in charter operations.

Show attendees can also learn more about the Citation Longitude by visiting the companyâ€™s display. The Longitude recently circumnavigated the globe as it completed a successful world tour and spent several weeks traveling throughout the Asia-Pacific region. Following its appearance at the Singapore Airshow in February, the super-midsize jet made a landmark trip from Singapore to Sydney, affirming its commanding performance and long-range capabilities by completing the 3,504-nautical-mile leg. With certification nearing, the Longitude flight program has completed more than 1,100 flights and logged more than 2,400 hours.

Also on display at the companyâ€™s ABACE static display at Chalet 10 will be the Cessna Citation XLS+ business jet and the Beechcraft King Air 350i.

About the Citation Latitude
The Latitude, with a four-passenger range of 2,700 nautical miles (5,000 km) at high-speed cruise, is set apart from the competition by its combination of comfort and efficiency. The aircraftâ€™s class-leading take-off field length of 3,580 feet provides operators with greater range out of short fields. Inside, the Latitude offers an unrivaled cabin experience featuring the most open, spacious, bright and refined cabin environment in its category. With a flat floor and six feet of cabin height, innovation abounds with exceptional features designed throughout the aircraft.

Textron Aviationâ€™s wireless cabin management system provides productive connectivity and entertainment to each passenger through their personal electronic devices. Improving cabin comfort for passengers and crew alike, the Latitude features a new cabin cooling system and a new pressurization system which provides a 5,950-foot cabin altitude at the aircraftâ€™s maximum operating altitude of 45,000 feet. With standard seating configurations, the Latitude can comfortably accommodate up to nine passengers. Extended maintenance intervals provide owners with the lowest direct operating costs in the midsize segment.

About the Citation Longitude
With a range of 3,500 nautical miles (6,482 kilometers) and full fuel payload of 1,600 pounds (726 kilograms), the Citation Longitude is designed to elevate passenger expectations in the super-midsize class by delivering the quietest cabin, a low cabin altitude (5,950 feet/1,814 meters), more standard features and a comfortable, bespoke interior. With seating for up to 12 passengers, including an optional crew jump seat, the Longitude features a stand-up, 6-foot tall flat-floor cabin. A standard double-club configuration delivers the most legroom in the super-midsize class. Fully berthable seats are designed and manufactured in-house and a class-leading walk-in baggage compartment is accessible throughout the entire flight. State-of-the-art cabin technology enables passengers to manage their environment and entertainment from any mobile device, while high-speed internet maximizes in-flight productivity.

The clean-sheet design of the Longitude integrates the latest technology throughout the aircraft, bringing customers the lowest ownership cost in its class. It features the next evolution of the Garmin G5000 flight deck and is powered by FADEC-equipped Honeywell HTF7700L turbofan engines with fully integrated autothrottles with envelope protection. With Garminâ€™s new Head-up Display (GHD 2100) and enhanced vision capability, the Longitude facilitates eyes-up flying. The spacious cockpit incorporates easier access and an ergonomic design that fully focuses on crew comfort and efficiency.

No super-midsize business jet offers more range, greater payload or higher cruise speed at a lower expected total ownership cost. The Longitude is designed to feature the longest maintenance intervals in its class â€“ 800 hours or 18 months â€“ expected to make it the most cost effective to operate in its category.

Cessna Announces New Warranty Claims Website

Scott Sherer — Sun, 20 May 2018 22:15:56 +0000

WICHITA, Kan. (May 15, 2018) â€“ Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, today launched its upgraded warranty claims processing site at the companyâ€™s 2018 Customer Conference in Wichita, Kansas. The improved site integrates new functionality into its claim processing and post-purchase support designed to provide a simple, convenient and intuitive experience for customers. The upgraded claims site can be accessed online by visiting claims.txtav.com.

Through a customer advisory board (CAB), the company worked directly with customers to develop the site to deliver a more seamless online experience. To capture the full spectrum of user perspectives, the CAB consisted of 14 individuals in a variety of roles and organizations, including directors of maintenance, owner operators, aircraft management companies, flight departments, authorized service facilities, international customers and mechanics.

â€œWorking hand-in-hand with our customer advisory board over the span of several months, we worked to ensure we fully understood customer needs and priorities when interacting with the claims processing site,â€ said Kriya Shortt, senior vice president of Customer Service. â€œAnd Iâ€™m thrilled with the result â€“ a streamlined, intuitive site that equips customers with the tools to more efficiently and easily submit their claims, which instills greater confidence in the ease and accuracy of their claims.â€

In addition to streamlining claims processing, additional improvements have been driven into post-purchase support for customers. Notably, charges on rotable parts for overhaul, which are over and above the standard overhaul price have been removed, eliminating unforeseen charges for the customer. Also, pay-in-advance customers who make core deposits with a credit card will now automatically receive the deposit back on their credit card after the claim has been settled.

About Textron Aviation Service
Textron Aviation offers customers factory-direct service and support throughout their entire ownership experience. Through a global network staffed with more than 3,000 employees, customers have direct access to a team of expert service representatives offering maintenance, inspections, parts, repairs, avionic upgrades, equipment installations, refurbishments and other specialized services. Textron Aviation manages a growing fleet of more than 60 mobile service units (MSU) and rapid response aircraft that can be mobilized to respond to maintenance events by contacting 1CALL, a team of AOG specialists providing prioritized service and support during unscheduled maintenance events.

Cessna Announces Keynote Speaker For 2018 Customer Conference

Scott Sherer — Sun, 20 May 2018 22:14:19 +0000

WICHITA, Kan. (April 19, 2018) â€“ Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. (NYSE:TXT) company, today announced it will welcome former NASA astronaut and Space Shuttle Commander Charlie Precourt as the keynote speaker to headline its 2018 customer conference, which will be held May 14-16 in Wichita, Kansas.

â€œI am delighted to welcome Charlie Precourt as our keynote speaker and to hear him share his firsthand experiences earned through a diverse and prestigious career spanning from inside the cockpit of a fighter jet to the commanderâ€™s seat of the space shuttle,â€ said Kriya Shortt, senior vice president, Customer Service. â€œAs customers come from around the world to Wichita for our annual conference, we look forward to an opportunity to share, learn and collaborate, ensuring Citation, King Air and Hawker ownership and support are second to none.â€

Charlie Precourt is currently the vice president and general manager of the Propulsion Systems Division of the Orbital ATK Corporation, which manufactures numerous rocket propulsion systems for the Department of Defense and NASA. He is also the vice chairman of the Board of the Experimental Aircraft Association and is EAAâ€™s safety committee chairman. Additionally, he serves as the chairman of the Citation Jet Pilot Associationâ€™s Safety Committee. He is a former NASA astronaut and space shuttle commander as well as a US Air Force test pilot. At NASA, he was the agencyâ€™s chief astronaut, responsible for the selection, training a flight certification of 20 space shuttle crews and five international space station crews.

Throughout the three-day event, customers will have access to Textron Aviation leaders and can attend a variety of seminars presented by subject matter experts and supplier representatives addressing aircraft maintenance and operation. Conference seminars will be grouped either by aircraft model or by general aviation topic, such as new products, fleet operations, airspace management, international operations and other general interest topics.

Outside of the conference seminars, attendees will also be offered tours of the companyâ€™s 1CALL center and the Textron Aviation production lines in Wichita, as well as have access to a static display showcasing some of the latest new product and aftermarket offerings from Textron Aviation.

About Textron Aviation Service
Textron Aviation offers customers factory-direct service and support throughout their entire ownership experience. Through a global network staffed with more than 3,000 employees, customers have direct access to a team of expert service representatives offering maintenance, inspections, parts, repairs, avionic upgrades, equipment installations, refurbishments and other specialized services. Textron Aviation manages a growing fleet of more than 60 mobile service units (MSU) and rapid response aircraft that can be mobilized to respond to maintenance events by contacting 1CALL, a team of AOG specialists providing prioritized service and support during unscheduled maintenance events.

Aviation Icon Richard Collins Passes Away at 84

Scott Sherer — Mon, 30 Apr 2018 19:21:48 +0000

Aviation Icon Richard Collins has passed away at age 84. See the AOPA article attached for his Bio.

https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2018/april/30/richard-l-collins-remembered

Britain Industries Closes Shop

Scott Sherer — Tue, 10 Apr 2018 14:58:03 +0000

BRITTAIN INDUSTRIES, INC.
FLIGHT CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR GENERAL AVIATION

To all our product owners, customers, suppliers and friends;
It has been a long road these last few months made slightly easier by all of the kind condolences we have received, thank you. However, we have been unable to find new ownership for the design data of the Brittain systems and thus have secured the intellectual properties, along with some test equipment and select inventory items off site and are hopeful a path forward can still be found.
Effective April 9, 2018 our facilities in Tulsa will be closed permenantly. Our telephone has been transfered to a mobile unit so we may stay in touch with you and our email and website accounts will also remain active.
We am unable to supply parts or offer repairs but will continue to update our website with news and information about the company in the coming months and continue to assist with technical quesitons, publications and advice so feel free to contact us but please be patient if we do not respond immediately.
Anyone with interest in purchasing the IP is welcome to contact Cecilia Henderson for information via phone or email.
Thank you once again to our product owners for their support and "fandom" of our products. We will work deligently to find a means to continue service of the Brittain line on your behalf.

Respectfully,
The Walters Family

Voice: (918)836-7701

Cessna Quietly Ends Production Of TTx Model

Scott Sherer — Tue, 20 Feb 2018 16:43:06 +0000

A sad day in Wichita, today and I'm sure they're throwing a party at Cirrus. Cessna pulled the plug after enemic sales of the TTx over the last 14 years. In 2017 Cessna only delivered a couple of dozen of these airplanes. Two years ago I did a test flight of the TTx while visiting Cessna in Wichita and I loved the airplane. In fact, if I were going to buy a new airplane that would be the airplane I'd buy. This does bring up an interesting thought. The TTx was put to rest while producing more airplanes than the Baron and Bonanza. Will Textron (owner of Cessna and Beech) kill the Beech piston line, too? Hmmm. Your thoughts?

Scott Sherer
Forum Moderator

Janitrol Aero Announces FAA Approval for Cabin Heaters

Scott Sherer — Thu, 01 Feb 2018 11:07:22 +0000

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

JANITROL AERO ANNOUNCES FAA APPROVAL FOR
AN AMOC TO THE RECENT AD ON SOUTH WIND CABIN HEATERS

The Alternate Method of Compliance (AMOC) will enable owners of
8000-series South Wind heaters to upgrade their systems
and exempt them from AD requirements.

Montgomery, AL (January 30, 2018) â€” Keith Bagley, president of Hartzell Engine Technologies (HET), announced today that the company has received FAA approval for a global Alternate Method of Compliance (AMOC) covering AD 2017-06-03 on South Wind 8000-series cabin heaters.

The AD requires that owner/operators of South Wind (formerly Meggitt/Stewart-Warner) heaters comply within the next 10-hours of heater operating time or next scheduled maintenance activity, whichever occurs first and then repeat compliance every two years or 250 hours.

â€œThe AD will require a Pressure Decay Test (PDT) on the South Wind heaterâ€™s combustion tube. For the tube to pass, it cannot have any leaks,â€ Bagley explained. â€œThe FAA estimates that 90-percent of these heaters will fail the PDT. And, according to the AD, any tubes that fail must be replaced. The AD does not allow for any repairs to the combustion tube.â€

â€œOur AMOC allows the replacement of the failed South Wind combustion tube on an 8000-series heater with a new design Janitrol Aero combustion tube and a new solid-state cycling switch,â€ he said. â€œThe crossover design of the new Janitrol Aero combustion tube is more crack resistant than the South Wind design.â€

HET has created an instructional video that explains the required pressure decay test (PDT) and highlights the companyâ€™s design and manufacturing for the new combustion tube. The video is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ucobN6Hidzw.

â€œIn addition, areas of the new Janitrol Aero tube that are exposed to extreme temperatures are treated with Durakoatâ„¢ heat-resistant coating, which further enhances the unitâ€™s reliability and longevity,â€ Bagley said.

Bagley also explained that by following the combustion chamber replacement procedures outlined in the AMOC (or through a complete replacement of the South Wind heater with a new Janitrol Aero cabin heater), the owner/operator is relieved of the ongoing two-year/250 hour compliance requirements outlined in the AD.

â€œWhen incorporating our AMOC, along with the new Janitrol Aero combustion tube and solid-state cycling switch, the South Wind heater also receives a new spark plug and fuel nozzle, as well as parts needed to overhaul the fuel pump and solenoids,â€ he said.

Janitrol Aero AMOC kits for unpressurized aircraft will be available in mid-February, kits for pressurized aircraft will follow by early April. List price of the Janitrol Aero AMOC Kits are $3,495 for unpressurized aircraft and $4,295 for pressurized aircraft, not including installation and overhaul labor. Bagley estimates the installed price will fall between that of a standard overhaul and the cost of a new Janitrol Aero cabin heater.

â€œThe AMOC represents a viable and affordable option to upgrade their heater and relieve owners of repetitive AD compliance every two years,â€ Bagley said.

He also explained that the AMOC Kit can be installed by select heater repair stations and that Janitrol Aero intends to begin offering South Wind heaters with the AMOC incorporated on an exchange basis as well. Pricing for the AMOC Exchange heaters will be announced in late February when the units are available.

New FAA PMA approved Janitrol Aero heaters and STC kits to replace South Wind heaters can also be purchased directly from HET or through one of its authorized distributors. Contact information can be found at: www.Janitrol.Aero/distributor

(GRAPHICS)
FAA AMOC Approval Document can be found at: Hartzell.Aero/eWzkl.

About Hartzell Engine Technologies LLC.
Hartzell Engine Technologies LLC, along with its sister company, Hartzell Propeller Inc., form the general aviation business unit of Tailwind Technologies Inc., a growing aerospace technology company. Hartzell Engine Technologies is the leading OEM supplier of aircraft cabin heating solutions and engine accessories, including turbocharging systems, aircraft alternators, starters and fuel pumps. These product lines are produced under the Janitrol Aero, AeroForce, Plane-Power, Sky-Tec, and Fuelcraft brands. For further information about Hartzell Engine Technologies and its products please visit: www.Hartzell.aero.

Contact:

Mike Disbrow
Marketing Representative
Hartzell Engine Technologies
937.606.0161
mdisbrow@hartzellenginetech.com

Dale Smith
Media Relations Representative
Hartzell Engine Technologies
904.400.1000
dalesmith206@comcast.net

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