KALAMAZOO, MI – Clifford Development announces the completion of a certification program to install Williams International FJ44-3A engines on the Citation II (C550). This is the first certification of new engines for the C550 using FAA certified test pilots. Certification flight tests document significant speed, range and direct operating cost improvements with this modification, which is installed under a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC), available for installation at three Clifford service centers.
“Our entire team of engineers, technicians, flight crews, suppliers and our shareholders are to be congratulated," says Jim Clifford, chief executive officer of Clifford Development. "This certification comes at a time when increased operating efficiencies and reduced environmental footprints are paramount. With its 35 percent reduction in average trip fuel consumption and noise reduction to Stage 4 standards, this transformation vaults the eight-passenger C550 into a completely new jet category.”In addition to the engine modification, Clifford Development certifies 35 improvements as part of this STC including: an Ametek digital engine display, heavy duty BFG brakes, new LED annunciator panel and a dual FADEC system certified to July 2007 standards. With this modification, the typical Citation II’s empty weight will be reduced by 250 pounds.
“The list of improvements will be important to every operator,” says Clifford, “But the performance stands out. Of the 15 pilots who have flown this airplane, each has raved about the performance. When they walk away from the airplane after their first flight, they grin.”
Based on certification flight test data, the Company reports that the re-engined C550 has significant performance improvements: a 22 minute time-to-climb to FL430 versus the current one hour and 37 minute step-climb profile; 18 percent increase in max cruise speed and a 59 percent increase in NBAA range with four passengers. The range increase, to 2192 nautical miles, is almost double the original engineering estimate. The Williams FJ44-3A engines are thermodynamically rated at 3000 pounds (with takeoff flat-rated thrust of 2820 pounds) versus the original engines, which are rated at 2500 pounds.
Clifford’s parallel certification program for installing Williams FJ44-3A engines on the Citation SII (S550) will be complete by the end of October. Certification test flights have been completed, TIA conformity is to be completed this week and the STC documentation issuance is in process by the FAA.
Clifford Development has appointed Great Lakes Aviation, Kalamazoo, MI; Threshold Aviation, Chino, CA; and Central Flying Service, Little Rock, AR, as service centers. Two customer airplanes are near completion at service centers.
Clifford summarizes the certification programs for the C550 and S550 with the comment that, “In life, the typical price of more power is less efficiency. This is one of those rare and happy exceptions to the rule. Our customers will have significantly lower operating costs, significantly improved performance and greater safety margins.”
For more information visit www.williams-int.com.
