The Cessna SkyCourier turboprop continues to surpass significant milestones as it begins the certification flight test phase of the program for the high-wing, large utility aircraft. Each major achievement has allowed the members of the flight test program a better understanding of the aircraft’s strength, capability, and durability.
The fleet of three flight test aircraft has now completed more than 700 flight test hours, and the program continues toward FAA certification and first deliveries later this year. Production final assembly for the SkyCourier begins this month on the company’s east campus in Wichita. State-of-the-art tooling, including high-speed machining, has been developed for the aircraft’s assembly.
“We’re excited to manufacture another revolutionary product for our customers,” said Brad White, Senior Vice President Operations. “Everything with the Cessna SkyCourier tooling is brand new and designed and produced in house. Our production team has made final preparations to the process, focusing on every step to ensure assembly is completed with great efficiency and excellent quality.”
The Cessna SkyCourier aircraft is designed and manufactured by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron company.