Textron Aviation has announced that the Cessna SkyCourier twin utility turboprop has been awarded type certification by the Australia Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), paving the way for the aircraft to cater for Australia’s diverse aviation needs.
This certification comes three months after the first SkyCourier order in Australia was announced at the Singapore Airshow.
“The SkyCourier’s incredible performance makes it a reliable business tool for customers all over the world,” said Lannie O’Bannion, SVP, global sales and flight operations. “This certification marks yet another milestone in the SkyCourier programme. With the ability to load, fly, unload and repeat – along with low operating costs and maximum cabin flexibility – the SkyCourier is a game-changer in reaching remote destinations.”
Textron Aviation designed the Cessna SkyCourier twin-engine, high-wing turboprop to be the ultimate solution for air freight, passenger and special mission needs. It can be operated by a single pilot and has a maximum range of 900 nautical miles. The SkyCourier is operated with Garmin G1000 NXi avionics and has a maximum cruise speed of more than 200ktas.
The aircraft is designed to enable the configuration to be adjusted easily. It’s available in both freighter and passenger versions, as well as equipped with a gravel kit option. The 19-passenger variant includes crew and passenger doors for smooth boarding, as well as large cabin windows for natural light and views. Both configurations offer single-point pressure refuelling. The freighter variant features a large door and a flat floor cabin that is sized to handle up to three LD3 shipping containers, with a 6,000 lb payload capability.
