Textron Aviation unveiled their plans to build a new, single-engine turboprop aircraft, expected to fly in 2018.
The aircraft, whose name will be revealed at the EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin in July, is designed to have cruise speeds up to 285 knots and have a full fuel payload of 1,100 pounds. The plane will seat one pilot and up to eight passengers.
"Developed with the pilot and passenger at the forefront, we have designed this airplane to be the clear winner in this segment, from class-leading performance and ownership costs, to superior cabin comfort and versatility,” Scott Ernest, president and CEO of Textron Aviation, said in a new release. “We have been intentional with every detail throughout the aircraft, resulting in an exceptional airplane that is sure to impress owners, pilots and passengers alike.”
The aircraft will feature Garmin G3000 touchscreen avionics, and be powered by General Electric Co.'s new turboprop engine.
Textron also recently announced the creation of a new business jet, the Cessna Citation Longitude, whose first wing and fuselage mate were complete on May 23. The aircraft is on track for its first flight this summer, and for entry into service by 2017, according to a news release.
“Since introducing the new Citation Longitude to the market only six months ago, the team has been working diligently to meet a development schedule unmatched in the industry, and it’s rewarding to see the aircraft taking shape,”t Ernest said. “The market is asking for this aircraft and we are pleased to take a concept inspired by what our customers need in payload, speed, range and cabin comfort and turn it into a class-leading jet with the lowest total ownership costs.”
