Textron Aviation starts delivering Beechcraft King Air 260 Multi-Engine Training System (METS) Aircraft to U.S. Navy

Textron Aviation has delivered the first two of up to 64 Multi-Engine Training System (METS) Beechcraft King Air 260 aircraft contracted by Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) on January 25, 2023, following a full and open competition.

The aircraft, which will be known as the T-54A, replaces the Chief of Naval Air Training (CNATRA) fleet of T-44C Pegasus aircraft at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi. A variant of the twin-engine and pressurized Beechcraft King Air 260, the T-54A will modernize the fleet and be more representative of follow-on fleet aircraft. The T-44 has been in service for more than 40 years.

The T-54A includes an updated avionics suite and automation qualities to better prepare students for the advanced aircraft they will fly in the fleet.

“The T-54A benefits from an active Beechcraft King Air assembly line in Wichita, Kansas, where all required METS avionics and interior modifications are installed on the line; keeping costs down, aircraft conformity consistent across the fleet and optimizing the delivery schedule to the Navy,” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, Special Missions Sales, Textron Aviation. “We are thrilled to continue our 47-year relationship of Textron Aviation aircraft conducting multi-engine flight training for Navy, Marine and Coast Guard Aviators.”

METS-specific capabilities include factory options for TACAN (Air-to-Air), angle-of-attack (AOA), V/UHF radio, digital audio system, engine trend monitoring, condition-based maintenance plus, observer/jump seat, passenger mission seats and full-face oxygen masks.

Earlier this month, TRU Simulation + Training Inc., an affiliate of Textron Aviation Inc., announced the company was awarded the METS Ground Based Training System (GBTS) contract providing the U.S. Navy with a fully integrated training system of aircraft and training devices. The contract base award is for three Unit Training Device (UTD) simulators in a King Air 260 standard configuration, one Operational Flight Trainer (OFT) simulator in the METS T-54A configuration, one Simulator Support Station (SSS) in the METS T-54A configuration and 21 Desktop Trainers for avionics training.

Endless Special Missions Possibilities

When government, military and commercial customers want airborne solutions for critical missions, they turn to Textron Aviation. The company’s aviation solutions provide the high performance and flight characteristics required to address the unique challenges of special missions operations. With unparalleled quality, versatility and low operating costs, Textron Aviation products are preferred for air ambulance; intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR); utility transport; aerial survey; flight inspection; training and a number of other special operations.

Textron Aviation expands relationship with Wallan Group

Textron Aviation has confirmed it plans to expand its relationship with longtime channel partner Wallan Group by adding approval as an authorized service facility for Beechcraft King Air turboprops.

“Wallan Group has a proven track record of providing quality maintenance and excellent service to our Cessna Citation customers,” said Bob Gibbs, vice president, of Special Mission Sales, Textron Aviation. “With an established and growing base of King Air aircraft in the Kingdom, this latest authorization provides an even greater level of convenience and in-country support.”

Wallan Group has served as an authorized service facility for Cessna Citation jets since 2008. With Textron Aviation’s focused sales and support efforts in the Kingdom, the company looks forward to its continuing relationship with the Wallan Group and support of customers within the Kingdom.

Textron Aviation announces new SustainableAdvantage carbon offset program for Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker owners

Textron Aviation has announced a new ProAdvantage program, SustainableAdvantage℠, to provide owners with an additional option for reducing their carbon dioxide emissions from operating aircraft. In collaboration with 4AIR, the program is set to launch in January 2024 and is available to eligible customers who own and operate Cessna, Beechcraft and Hawker turbine aircraft worldwide.

Beechcraft, Cessna and Hawker customers receive factory-direct support, maintenance and modifications by Textron Aviation Inc. through its global network of service and part centres, mobile service units and 24/7 1CALL AOG support.

“Owners have increasingly become interested in solutions that mitigate the carbon footprint of operating their aircraft,” said Brad White, senior vice president, of Global Parts and Programs, Textron Aviation. “SustainableAdvantage provides them the opportunity to have a seamless option to offset their carbon emissions through a Textron Aviation approved program and supplier.”

The SustainableAdvantage portfolio currently managed by 4AIR supports four projects around the globe:

• Rainier Gateway Forestry Project
• Cookstove Project
• Bundled Solar
• Solar Energy – Renewable Power by Adani

Textron Aviation to add emergency autoland system to its Beechcraft Denali aircraft cockpits

The Beechcraft Denali cockpit features the Garmin G3000 intuitive avionics suite with high-resolution screens and touchscreen controllers May 08, 2023 11:02 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Textron Aviation has confirmed it is adding the revolutionary Garmin Emergency Autoland system to its new clean-sheet design Beechcraft Denali single-engine turboprop. The new feature is being implemented into the aircraft’s development and flight test program and will be available as a standard feature at the time of entry into service.

The Garmin Emergency Autoland system is the world’s first certified system of its kind. It provides a means for the aircraft to land automatically in the unlikely event of pilot incapacitation. A passenger can activate the Emergency Autoland system by pressing a dedicated button in the cockpit. Once activated, the system immediately takes control of the aircraft and informs ATC of the emergency. It then calculates a flight path to the most suitable airport or runway, while avoiding terrain and adverse weather, initiates a stabilized approach and automatically lands the aircraft, bringing it to a stop before shutting down the engine.

“The Autoland system is an excellent addition to the Beechcraft Denali and the G3000 avionics suite, and we’ve included it in the program as a direct response to continued conversations with our customers,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales & Flight Operations. “The feature makes the Denali even more desirable to a wider audience as it adds yet another element of assurance and peace of mind for pilots and passengers.”

Textron Aviation is aligning the Beechcraft Denali aircraft certification timing, which is expected in 2025, to the certification timeline for the new Catalyst engine. The Denali is the first aircraft powered by the new, more efficient engine.

Eight aircraft and support contract for Textron Aviation Defense

Textron Aviation Defense announced a $143 million contract with the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) for an Integrated System in support of the 41st Wing light attack operations at Chiang Mai Air Base. The historic contract — for eight Beechcraft AT-6 Wolverine aircraft, ground support equipment, spare parts, training and other equipment — establishes Thailand as the international launch customer for the USAF’s latest light attack aircraft. The work in support of this procurement will take place at the company’s Wichita, Kansas facilities.

“We are honoured the Royal Thai Air Force has competitively selected the Beechcraft AT-6 to conduct a broad array of missions in support of its border security and its anti-smuggling, counter-narcotics and anti-human trafficking operations,” said Thomas Hammoor, president and chief executive officer of Textron Aviation Defense LLC. “The RTAF is a key U.S. security ally and operator of one of the most advanced air forces in Asia Pacific. Its extensive market research and stringent procurement process sought the alignment of best cost, schedule, and performance to replace its existing fleet of aging Aero L-39 Albatros aircraft and advance the capabilities of its fleet with the latest technology.”

From left to right: Thomas Hammoor, president and chief executive officer of Textron Aviation Defense LLC, hosts the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) Air Marshal Pongsawat Jantasarn, Chairman of the RTAF Procurement Committee, for the signing of the official Thai contract procuring a fleet of 12 Beechcraft AT-6TH aircraft. Witnessing the contract signing are Thomas Webster, Textron Aviation Defense regional sales director for Asia Pacific, and RTAF Air Chief Marshal Chanon Mungthanya. (Photo: Business Wire)

The contract for the AT-6 — designated the Beechcraft AT-6TH in Thailand — supports the modernization and interoperability objectives at the forefront of the mutual defense cooperation between the U.S. and Thailand. The contract also contributes to the growth of Thailand’s aerospace industry detailed in the 10-year Royal Thai Air Force Purchase and Development (P&D) Plan, complies with requirements set forth by the Thai National Anti-Corruption Committee (ACC) and empowers RTAF light attack aircrew with a vital technological advantage.

“RTAF pilots and concerned parties found the attributes of the AT-6 procurement program extremely favorable,” stated AM Pongsawat Jantasarn, RTAF’s chairman of the procurement committee. “It will also benefit both Thai and U.S. mutual interests, strengthening the enduring strategic partnership between our nations.”

The contract signing, witnessed by RTAF Air Chief Marshal Chanon Mungthanya, aligns the procurement with the Thai government’s S-Curve 11 strategy — a program that pioneers development of the Thai domestic defense industry, cultivates diversity and supports involvement across foreign and Thai companies.

The Beechcraft AT-6TH becomes the second RTAF procurement contracted in support of S-Curve 11. The first procurement under the new strategy was the Beechcraft T-6TH Texan II, awarded in 2020. The Ministry of Defense supports the S-Curve 11 strategy and the two procurements.

Textron Aviation Defense training of RTAF maintenance professionals is set to begin in Thailand in 2023, while pilot training is set to begin in Wichita in 2024. The Beechcraft AT-6TH will join the Royal Thai fleet in 2024.

Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER and 260 Aircraft gets EASA certification

Beechcraft King Air 360

Textron Aviation is celebrating another recent milestone with its newest twin-turboprop models, the Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER and King Air 260, as both aircraft achieved European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) type certification. This approval now paves the way for the delivery of these aircraft to customers throughout Europe.  and will begin deliveries to customers throughout the region.

“EASA certification begins a whole new era for the Beechcraft King Air in Europe,” said Tom Perry, vice president of Sales for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. “The King Air has been the turboprop of choice throughout this region for more than five decades, and the new 260 and 360 will build on that legendary reputation. We have incorporated innovative and next-generation technologies that enhance the flying experience for an already proven aircraft.”

Renowned for their versatility and reliability, King Air turboprops have been a popular choice across Europe with more than 460 aircraft throughout the region. Nearly half of all King Airs in Europe are owned and operated in France, Germany and the United Kingdom.

A typical King Air 360 flight with four passengers and a single pilot has a maximum range of 3,345 km (1,806 nautical miles), allowing it to complete flights such as London to Athens or Frankfurt to Moscow without stopping to refuel. Similarly, the King Air 260 has a maximum range of 3,185 km (1,720 nautical miles), allowing four passengers and a single pilot to take complete flights such as Rome to Madrid or Paris to Stockholm without refuelling.

More about the Beechcraft King Air 360/360ER and 260

ACIA Aero Leasing Adds New Customers in Europe and Asia

ACIA Aero Leasing has added two new lessees, Fly LeOne in Italy and NXT Air in Bangladesh, as the lessor continues to expand its customer base in major markets across the world.

“We are delighted to further broaden ACIA’s growing customer base both in Europe and Asia by adding our first airline customers in Italy and Bangladesh,” commented Sameer Adam, ACIA Aero Leasing Senior Vice President, Commercial. “Our commercial and technical teams worked closely with both carriers to overcome the significant logistical challenges to getting their aircraft delivered in view of the countries’ strict Covid-19 mitigation measures.”

Start-up Fly LeOne took delivery of a Beechcraft 1900D, which the carrier will operate on direct routes between Italy’s underserved regional airports and Mediterranean tourist destinations in addition to connecting small city pairings within the country.

Stefano Costantini, Chief Executive Officer of Fly LeOne, reacted to the delivery by emphasizing the ACIA team’s “strong support for our airline and working closely with the Fly LeOne team over the past six months to deliver this aircraft. As we look to put this first aircraft into service in the coming weeks, we are already looking forward to adding additional aircraft from ACIA as European and Italian passenger demand continues its recovery.”

Single-engine Denali Aircraft joins the legendary Beechcraft turboprop family as program progresses toward first flight

Textron Aviation announced it is realigning its turboprop aircraft lineup as the single-engine Beechcraft Denali (previously branded the Cessna Denali) joins the legendary twin-engine Beechcraft King Air 260 and King Air 360/360ER as part of the company’s high-performance turboprop product lineup. The aircraft development program continues to progress toward a first flight anticipated later this year.

“The Beechcraft Denali represents our continued strategy to invest in clean-sheet and current products in both our Beechcraft and Cessna iconic brands. Beechcraft turboprops are renowned for their versatility and reliability, and the single-engine Denali is a perfect complement to this legendary family of products,” said Ron Draper, Textron Aviation, president and CEO. “Pilots and passengers will appreciate the aircraft for its enhanced capabilities, innovative technology and all-around passenger comfort.”

The Beechcraft Denali is designed to outperform its competition with projected lower operating costs, Garmin G3000 avionics, and the largest cabin in its class. Engineered to achieve cruise speeds of 285 knots with a full fuel payload of 1,100 pounds, the Denali will have a range of 1,600 nautical miles at high-speed cruise with one pilot and four passengers.

Special edition 75th anniversary Beechcraft Bonanza blends modern technology With retro styling.

A special edition 75th anniversary Beechcraft Bonanza G36 single-engine piston aircraft has been released by Textron Aviation to celebrate the massive milestone.

The special edition 75th anniversary option for the Beechcraft Bonanza G36 single-engine piston aircraft is distinguished by its custom interior and paint scheme inspired by Olive Ann Beech’s signature blue colour. (Photo: Business Wire)

The company says the iconic aircraft design is distinguished by its custom interior and paint scheme that has been inspired by Olive Ann Beech’s signature blue colour.  The order book is open for the limited-edition model that will deliver in 2022 – the 75th year since it first entered the market for the longest continuously produced aircraft in history. The Beechcraft Bonanza continues to be a cornerstone of the company’s leadership in the piston market.

“The formula for the Beechcraft Bonanza’s longevity involves an ageless style and utility, a passionate legion of owners and aspiring owners, and a seven-decade commitment by company engineers to continuously refine and update features to meet customer, technology, regulatory and environmental needs,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Global Sales & Flight Operations. “We know Walter and Olive Ann Beech would be proud of where we’ve taken their stylish and powerful piston with today’s Bonanza G36.”

Textron Aviation launches signature special Olympics airlift event in support of 2022 USA games

Textron Aviation launched the company’s signature industry endeavour — the Special Olympics Airlift (SOA) — and began its call for Cessna Citation, Beechcraft King Air, Beechcraft Premier, Beechjet and Hawker owners and operators to help transport more than 4,000 athletes and coaches from across the nation to the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games in Orlando, Florida. 

 The SOA is a signature community event organized and coordinated by Textron Aviation Inc., a Textron Inc. company.

“Textron Aviation, along with our many generous customers and supporters, is extremely excited to kick off the eighth Special Olympics Airlift in support of providing athletes and coaches transportation to the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “This signature event is a unique opportunity that enables everyone, from our employees to our customers, to ignite our shared passion for lifting others up and supporting our communities by giving the athletes the joy of a once-in-a-lifetime aviation experience.”