Textron Aviation announced their Cessna SkyCourier twin utility turboprop aircraft recently received type certification, confirming it meets required design standards to operate in Australia.
The aircraft is produced at the company’s manufacturing facility in Wichita. The new, clean-sheet design allows for the incorporation of the latest state-of-the-art assembly and fabrication processes and techniques into the manufacturing of the aircraft.
“The SkyCourier’s incredible performance makes it a reliable business tool for customers all over the world,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Global Sales and Flight Operations. “This certification marks yet another milestone in the SkyCourier program. With the ability to load, fly, unload and repeat — along with low operating costs and maximum cabin flexibility — the SkyCourier is a game-changer in reaching remote destinations.”
The company said the aircraft, which can be operated by a single pilot and comes in freighter and passenger versions, will serve remote Australian communities, improve regional connectivity, and cater to the country’s diverse aviation needs.
The certification comes three months after the first SkyCourier order in Australia was announced at the Singapore Airshow.
Aircraft Specs
The 19-passenger variant includes crew and passenger doors for smooth boarding, as well as large cabin windows for natural light and views.
The freighter variant features a large door and a flat floor cabin that is sized to handle up to three LD3 shipping containers with an impressive 6,000 pounds of payload capability.
Both configurations offer single-point pressure refueling to enable faster turnarounds.
The aircraft is powered by two wing-mounted Pratt & Whitney PT6A-65SC turboprop engines and features the McCauley Propeller C779, a heavy-duty and reliable 110-inch aluminum four-blade propeller, which is full feathering with reversible pitch, designed to enhance the performance of the aircraft while hauling tremendous loads.
The SkyCourier is operated with Garmin G1000 NXi avionics and has a maximum cruise speed of more than 200 ktas. The SkyCourier has a 900 nautical-mile maximum range.
