Category: BizJet

Cessna SkyCourier Marks Five Years Since First Flight of Clean-Sheet Aircraft

Textron Aviation is celebrating the five-year anniversary of the first flight of the Cessna SkyCourier, the company’s clean-sheet twin-engine, high-wing utility turboprop. This is a significant milestone for this high-performing aircraft which is being used by operators worldwide.

To support growing flight activities of the SkyCourier, the company is investing in a 52,000-square-foot expansion of a production flight test hangar in Wichita, Kansas. The expansion will add an additional six hangar bays to the north side of a facility on Textron Aviation’s East Wichita Campus.

“The versatility of the Cessna SkyCourier enables operators to tackle diverse mission profiles and operate in some of the most challenging environments in the world,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, sales & marketing. “With two variants of the aircraft and the optional gravel and combi conversion kits, the SkyCourier has brought innovative solutions to our customers around the globe.”

The Cessna SkyCourier prototype first took flight on May 17, 2020. Since then, it has become a reliable solution for air freight, passenger, humanitarian and other special mission needs across the world with its ability to land on unimproved runways and transport passengers and cargo simultaneously.

Program Milestones

Recent program milestones include the first order from the Marshall Islands and first delivery to Canada. See below for additional milestones.

  • March 2022 – Earned FAA type certification
  • July 2022 – Certified in the Bahamas
  • September 2022 – Certified in Suriname
  • February 2023 – Optional Gravel kit offered
  • June 2023 – Certified in Brazil
  • August 2023 – Certified in Mexico
  • May 2024 – Certified in Australia
  • May 2024 – Combi conversion kit FAA certified
  • July 2024 – Certified in the Philippines
  • December 2024 – Certified in Canada

About the Cessna SkyCourier
The twin-engine, high-wing turboprop offers a combination of performance and lower operating costs for air freight, commuter and special mission operators.

The freighter variant is sized to handle up to three LD3 shipping containers with an impressive 6,000 pounds of payload capability. 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 refueling to enable faster turnarounds.

The SkyCourier is powered by two wing-mounted Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-65SC turboprop engines and features McCauley Propeller Systems’ C779 propeller, a reliable 110-inch aluminum four-blade propeller, which is full feathering with reversible pitch, designed to enhance the performance of the aircraft while hauling tremendous loads. The SkyCourier is operated with Garmin G1000 NXi avionics and has a maximum cruise speed of more than 200 ktas and a 900 nautical-mile maximum range.

Gulfstream Unveils Redesigned London Showroom

Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. recently announced the official unveiling of its reimagined London Sales and Design Center. Originally opened in 2013, the nearly 5,500-square-foot/511-square-meter space located in Mayfair gives customers based in or traveling through the city exclusive access to Gulfstream’s London-based sales executives and interior design team.

“Delivering an unparalleled experience for our customers is what defines the Gulfstream difference and is something we are continuously investing in,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “Our curated portfolio of strategically located sales and design centers offers customers an opportunity to personally explore our aircraft cabins, seating options and outfitting materials so they can tailor their own aircraft to their liking. This redesigned London space is the latest location to further bring this bespoke experience to life.”

The London Sales and Design Center features a full-size Gulfstream G400 cabin mock-up and a Gulfstream G700 and Gulfstream G800 cabin mock-up along with the award-winning Gulfstream G500 and Gulfstream G600 customizable seat collections for customers to test the comfort and functionality of seating, flooring and materials in an actual cabin living area without leaving the city center. 

In the design showroom, Gulfstream’s interior design team guides customers through the vast selection of finishes, veneers, floor coverings, leathers, textiles and other interior outfitting materials available on-site. Dynamic technology, including 3D Cabin Creator and exterior paint visualization technology displayed via a large-scale powerwall, allows customers to delve into the multitude of flexible cabin configurations and full customization services Gulfstream offers.

In addition to London, Gulfstream’s sales and design centers are also located in Savannah, New York and Beverly Hills, California.

Gulfstream Customer Support Promotes Juan Hernandez to VP, Field Support

Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. has announced the promotion of Juan Hernandez to vice president of field support.

In this role, Hernandez is responsible for the strategic and tactical direction of Gulfstream’s worldwide field support activities, including the global call center, customer operational readiness, contractor logistics support services and the field service representative (FSR) network. He reports to Lor Izzard, who was recently named senior vice president of Gulfstream Customer Support.

“Throughout his tenure with Gulfstream, Juan has contributed to the advancement of our field support team to help ensure we are well positioned for best-in-class customer support,” said Izzard. “His strong customer relationships and commitment to the teams he leads are incredibly valuable, and I am thrilled to have him join the Customer Support leadership team.”

Hernandez, who has more than 30 years of aviation experience, joined Gulfstream in 1998. He has been part of the technical operations team since 2008 and held numerous roles of increasing responsibility within Gulfstream Customer Support. Before joining Gulfstream, Hernandez served in the U.S. Army as an avionics technician.

This announcement follows the recent opening of Gulfstream FAST’s newest location in White Plains, New York, which occurred under Hernandez’s leadership. 

Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 Flight Test Program Advances Through Milestones as Second Test Article Takes Flight

Textron Aviation announced a major program milestone for the Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen3 flight test program with the successful first flight of a second test article — P1. Testing on the P1 aircraft will focus on avionics, human factors and interiors. The Citation CJ4 Gen3 business jet is designed to keep pilots a step ahead in the cockpit by offering the next-generation Garmin G3000 PRIME avionics along with the most standard features in its class.

“This achievement continues the forward momentum of the CJ4 Gen3 program and reflects the dedication and expertise of our team in designing, certifying and delivering the best aircraft for our customers,” said Chris Hearne, senior vice president, engineering & programs. “By adding this test article to our flight test program, we are continuing rigorous testing as we work toward certification.”

Piloted by James Bearman and Corey Eckhart, the three hour and 29-minute initial flight centered on general avionics and system evaluations. The aircraft reached a maximum altitude of 45,000 feet and a maximum speed of 305 knots. Bearman said it performed to program expectations, with a smooth and seamless flight.

The Citation CJ4 Gen3 business jet was announced during the 2024 National Business Aviation Association – Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (NBAA-BACE), and the aircraft is expected to enter into service in 2026. The P1 test aircraft joins the program following the CJ4 Gen3 prototype, which completed its first flight in 2024. As a next-generation business jet, the CJ4 Gen3 builds upon the legendary history of the Citation family, which has long been recognized as the most popular line of business jets worldwide.

A New Pathway to FAA A&P Certification

The Prescott Foundation’s Workforce Development Program, an innovative initiative offering a hands-on, alternative pathway for individuals seeking FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification. This program is designed to open doors for those who may not be able to pursue traditional schooling, providing a paid internship and real-world experience in aircraft restoration and maintenance.

The Prescott Foundation’s Workforce Development Program introduces participants to the aviation industry through immersive, practical training. By working directly with historic warbirds and modern aircraft, interns gain vital skills that are essential not only for preserving aviation history but also for ensuring the safety of millions of air travelers every day. The program is uniquely structured to welcome individuals with little or no prior work experience, equipping them with the tools and confidence to pursue rewarding careers in aviation maintenance.

A defining feature of the program is its supportive, team-based environment, enriched by a strong veteran presence. Veterans serve as mentors and role models, helping participants develop both technical expertise and a passion for aviation. This collaborative atmosphere fosters personal growth, new career paths, and a deep appreciation for the legacy of military aviation.

Key Program Features:
• Alternative, hands-on pathway to FAA A&P certification
• Paid internship with direct experience in aircraft restoration and maintenance
• Supportive environment with strong veteran mentorship
• Opportunities for individuals without prior work experience
• Contribution to the preservation of aviation history and safety

VSE Corporation Acquires Turbine Weld Industries

VSE Corporation, a provider of aviation aftermarket distribution and repair services, announced it has acquired Turbine Weld Industries, a specialized MRO service provider focused on complex engine components for business and general aviation (BG&A) platforms.

Founded in 1986, Turbine Weld is a premier provider of high-value engine component repairs, specializing in hot section components for Pratt & Whitney Canada engines—including the PW100, PT6, and JT15D series with approximately 25,000 engines in service. Operating from its MRO center of excellence in Venice, Florida with a team of approximately 60, Turbine Weld has repaired more than 80,000 components and is recognized for its exceptional service and technical excellence.

VSE says the acquisition will help with the following:

  • Expanded Technical and Proprietary Capabilities: Turbine Weld enhances VSE’s position in the B&GA engine aftermarket by delivering specialized MRO services across high-demand platforms. Through collaboration with OEMs, Turbine Weld has developed numerous proprietary repair specifications and serves as the sole-source provider for many flight-critical repairs on two of the most widely used engine platforms in the B&GA market.
  • OEM Alignment: The acquisition strengthens VSE’s collaboration with OEM partners by broadening technical service capabilities and expanding the repair portfolio.
  • Growth and Investment: VSE plans to invest in Turbine Weld’s operational capacity to address increasing demand and accelerate growth opportunities.

“This acquisition marks another important step in the strategic expansion of our aviation services business,” said John Cuomo, president and CEO of VSE Corporation. “Turbine Weld brings industry-leading expertise in complex engine component repair, further positioning VSE as a comprehensive solutions provider to our OEM and aftermarket partners. We are thrilled to welcome the Turbine Weld team and look forward to growing together.”

“Turbine Weld’s proven track record, technical depth, and dedication to quality make them an outstanding addition to VSE Aviation,” said Ben Thomas, chief operating officer of VSE Corporation. “Expansion of Turbine Weld’s highly technical repair capabilities is critical to supporting the tens of thousands of PT6 and PW100 operators in the global fleet. This partnership allows us to significantly increase Turbine Weld’s capacity, broaden our capabilities, and deliver even greater value to our customers.”

“We’re excited to join forces with VSE Aviation,” said Dave Bush, president of Turbine Weld Industries. “Their reputation, customer focus, strong culture, and commitment to technical excellence make this a natural fit for our employees and strengthens our overall service level to our customers.”

Gulfstream Completes Newest St. Louis Expansion

Gulfstream Aerospace announced the finalization of its expanded aircraft completions operations at St. Louis Downtown Airport during a ceremony to inaugurate the new space. Originally announced in 2023, this facility expansion provides the necessary resources to support full aircraft interior outfitting at Gulfstream’s St. Louis facility. 

“This St. Louis facility expansion is a continuation of our company-wide growth strategy to support the production of Gulfstream’s industry-leading fleet,” said Mark Burns, president, Gulfstream. “It positions our team to further support completions of our next-generation aircraft for customers all over the world as demand for these aircraft continues to grow.”

This expansion represents an investment of more than $30 million and adds to Gulfstream’s St. Louis maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility that opened in 2017 to provide dedicated hangar space and service to support the entire Gulfstream fleet. Gulfstream employs over 675 team members on-site in St. Louis and encompasses a total facility footprint of 645,013 square feet/59,993 square meters. 

In support of this growth, Gulfstream also added 200 new jobs. While many of these new positions have been filled, Gulfstream is still actively recruiting and hiring in St. Louis for numerous roles in avionics, interior installations, cabinet fabrication and cabinet finishing. 

“The St. Louis area is a booming aviation hub filled with skilled and capable talent, and that has played a role in our continued investment in the region,” added Burns. 

To help engage and develop its workforce at the St. Louis facility, Gulfstream is partnering with many local educational institutions. One of these initiatives is Gulfstream’s high school assistant program with Cahokia Heights and The Center for Academic and Vocational Excellence (CAVE) in Belleville. Students can enroll in this program and receive on-the-job experience while in school and then be placed in full-time positions at Gulfstream upon graduation. 

Other recent Gulfstream facility investments include all-new service centers in Mesa, Arizona, and Fort Worth, Texas; a world-class paint hangar in Appleton, Wisconsin; and the recently expanded Savannah service center. 

Gulfstream Field and Airborne Support Teams Continue Strategic Expansion

Gulfstream Aerospace announced the opening of its newest Gulfstream FAST location in White Plains, New York. Positioned at Westchester County Airport, highly skilled FAST technicians are available to support aircraft service needs both on-site and in the surrounding area. 

This news further supports Gulfstream’s global expansion of its FAST program, which has continued to grow and evolve over the years, increasing its field support readiness to better serve customers and the growing Gulfstream fleet. Today, Gulfstream Customer Support is focused on adding new FAST bases in areas with high customer activity, like White Plains. 

“We continually assess our service offerings based on fleet growth, aircraft movements and customer demand as we identify areas for expansion, enhancing our global footprint to better meet our customers’ needs,” said Lor Izzard, senior vice president, Gulfstream Customer Support. “Our customers remain at the center of everything we do, and this shift in forward deployment of our FAST teams was in direct response to their feedback.”

FAST originally launched in the U.S. to dispatch and swiftly respond to any aircraft on ground (AOG) situation. The team first expanded overseas in 2011, and the program has grown significantly since. Today there are 150 Gulfstream FAST technicians and 24 FAST bases worldwide. In 2024, the team expanded by more than 40% and new FAST team members have already been added this year with future growth opportunities in Western U.S., Europe, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific. 

FAST is part of Gulfstream’s Customer Support network, which comprises more than 5,500 team members and accounts for over 25% of Gulfstream’s total worldwide headcount. 

Dassault Systèmes and Airbus Extend Strategic Partnership to Use Virtual Twins for Next-Generation Programs

Dassault Systèmes and Airbus have extended their long-term strategic partnership, putting the 3DEXPERIENCE platform at the heart of lifecycle management of all new Airbus programs for civil and military aircraft and helicopters.

This deployment will support the entire development chain for all Airbus civil and military aircraft and helicopters. More than 20,000 users from every business area, as well as Airbus suppliers, will be able to collaborate more effectively and use virtual twins — on premise or on a sovereign cloud — to shorten development cycles, anticipate and improve production efficiency, and enhance aftersales support — all while reducing costs.

“Digitalization is a key enabler that we are leveraging to support our core priorities, whether it is ramping up the production of our commercial aircraft, preparing the next generation of platforms that will further contribute to the decarbonization of our sector, or pioneering the defense and security solutions of tomorrow,” said Guillaume Faury, CEO, Airbus. “This renewed partnership with Dassault Systèmes will play an important role in accelerating our progress towards these goals, while ensuring the highest levels of quality, safety and security throughout the lifecycle of our products and solutions, from design to in-service operations.”

“Our long history of collaboration with Airbus embarks on its next chapter, enabling the entire enterprise and its value chain to innovate globally, efficiently and virtually for decades to come. Airbus can take full advantage of AI-powered generative experiences, and scientific advances in material science, modeling, simulation, production and operation systems efficiency with our 3DEXPERIENCE platform. This will open new possibilities to imagine, create and produce the experiences that will define the future of the aerospace industry,” said Bernard Charlès, executive chairman, Dassault Systèmes.

Dassault Systèmes will provide Airbus with seven industry solution experiences based on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform:  “Program Excellence,” “Winning Concept,” “Co-Design to Target,” “Cleared to Operate,” “Ready for Rate,” “Build to Operate,” and “Keep Them Operating.”  

Textron Aviation Raises the Bar for Workforce Development With State-of-the-Art Career & Learning Center

Textron Aviation Inc. announced its new Career & Learning Center is complete and fully operational serving prospective, current and future Textron Aviation employees. Strategically located on the company’s East Wichita Campus, this state-of-the-art facility expands the training footprint to more than 75,000 square feet and provides a world-class employee experience during the application, hiring, onboarding and training processes.

“The Textron Aviation Career & Learning Center is an important investment in building the next generation of aviation manufacturing, support and professional talent,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO. “Recruiting, hiring and training a world-class workforce is vital to our ability to provide the best aviation experience for our customers.”

The Career & Learning Center is divided into four different zones to support applicants and employees in their hiring and training journeys.

Career Zone

Textron Aviation is actively hiring and welcomes walk-in applicants at the Career & Learning Center Career Zone lobby. Dedicated recruiters provide prospective employees with personalized support at every step, from resume assistance to role matching and job applications. Public operating hours are 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, with extended hours until 6 p.m. on Wednesdays.

Pre-Employment Zone

Pre-employment processes are housed onsite for a one-stop location for new employees to conveniently complete onboarding, WorkKeys testing and new hire training.

Learning Zone

Professional and technical training rooms are fully equipped to develop employees’ skills. In addition to classroom learning, the west bay hangar features a simulated manufacturing floor, preparing newly hired mechanics with unparalleled hands-on experience. With eight weeks of training and support, this industry-leading model is designed to equip employees new to aviation manufacturing with the technical knowledge needed to move seamlessly into permanent roles with increased confidence and productivity.

Design. Build. Fly. Zone

The dedicated K-12 space, intended to develop early interest in aviation as a career, accommodates age-appropriate, hands-on activities to engage students and educators alike, sparking curiosity and passion for the aviation industry. Students can explore the joy of flying by interacting with an iconic Cessna Skyhawk 172 simulator, the world’s leading trainer aircraft.

“We are passionate about creating environments where future and current employees can be inspired and thrive,” said Maggie Topping, senior vice president, Human Resources & Communications. “The Career & Learning Center is equipped with the latest technology to provide realistic environments for training scenarios that mimic the reality of our manufacturing operations, setting our employees up for success from day one.”

This more than $40 million project is part of Textron Aviation’s multifaceted approach for developing the company’s world-class workforce, by focusing on ongoing skill development, certification and talent development activities. In recognition of the importance of aviation to the state, Kansas awarded Textron Aviation $3,325,000 for a portion of the facility construction as part of the Aviation Learning Opportunities & Funded Training (ALOFT) grant. The project was supported by Wichita-based vendors and contractors, including SPT Architecture, Conco Construction and Professional Engineering Consultants (PEC).