Safran and business aviation: An Industry-leading Relationship Supported by the Company's U.S. Industrial Footprint

Safran’s SMA Engines has created the SR305-230E diesel engine for general aviation aircraft, and the company marked an important commercial breakthrough in 2012 with Cessna’s selection of this powerplant for the Turbo Skylane NXT aircraft.  Operating on Jet-A, Jet-A1, TS-1 and No. 3 fuel, the SR305-230E diesel engine is rated at 230-hp. and addresses the issue of increasingly scarce and expensive aviation gas (avgas), while consuming 30-40 percent less fuel than engines using leaded avgas. It also responds to the aviation industry’s environmental focus by operating 4 dB quieter than a gas engine, while totally eliminating lead in the exhaust.

The Safran group’s presence in flight controls, electronics, avionics, maintenance-aid systems and electronic control units for integrated landing systems and engines is covered by its Sagem business units (Sagem Avionics and Sagem Electronics), supplying aircraft that includes Airbus and Boeing business jets, Dassault Aviation’s Falcon family, along with such corporate aircraft as those from Gulfstream and Hawker. This activity also includes development of a fourth-generation FADEC (full-authority digital engine control) in a joint venture with BAE Systems for GE’s Passport engine on the Bombardier Global Express, along with the FADEC on the Snecma Silvercrest engine, as well as other applications.

Safran’s Technofan is a pioneer in the sector of high performance ventilation, with its fans, valves, air filters, hoses, heat exchangers, flow sensors, pressure sensors, and related products flying on aircraft built by Bombardier Aerospace, Cessna, Dassault and others.  The manufacture and repair of ram air turbines, air driven generators and ice detectors for corporate and VIP aircraft is performed by Safran’s U.S.-based Aerosource company. 

Business aviation innovation at Safran includes the e-APU from Microturbo – a new auxiliary power unit concept designed especially to meet demands of the more-electric/all-electric corporate business aircraft which will be certified for civil operation during the first semester of 2013. Microturbo has also set up a partnership with Pratt & Whitney AeroPower to develop new-generation APUs and systems, the first application being Bombardier’s Global 7000 and 8000 business jets.

For its diverse range of products and services, Safran operates a comprehensive network for after-sales and customer support, as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul services, with centers and facilities located in the United States and worldwide.

At the 2012 NBAA Annual Meeting and Convention, the Safran group’s exhibit stand is located at Booth #2579. 

For more information, visit: www.safran-na.com