Second Cessna Skycourier takes to the skies

Textron Aviation is pushing ahead with the Cessna 408 SkyCourier test programme with a second example taking to the skies last month.

The first prototype of Cessna’s clean-sheet utility twin flew in May of this year, but this second aircraft, called P1, is what the company describes as the ‘first conforming production flight test aircraft.’ According to Cessna, this example will focus on testing ‘propulsion, environmental control and avionics’ systems.

“This flight is another important step for the Cessna SkyCourier programme as it will be used primarily for testing aircraft systems like avionics, environmental control and anti-icing,” said Chris Hearne, senior vice president, engineering and programmes. “Since the debut flight for the prototype aircraft, the team has rapidly moved through testing and has accomplished its goals of initial envelope expansion and handling, including stalls. When one considers the team has achieved all these milestones despite the many disruptions caused by a global pandemic, it is quite remarkable. The Cessna SkyCourier programme is heading through the second half of 2020 with a great deal of momentum.”

The 19-seat turboprop twin can also be configured as a freighter, as the P1 test aircraft is. So far, the SkyCourier prototype and flight-test ships have logged 76 hours over 38 flights. The type is powered by two Pratt & Whitney PT6A-65 turbines of 1,100 SHP each and is slated to cruise at 200 knots. The first flight of P1, piloted by Peter Gracey and Todd Dafforn, reached 14,200 feet with a max speed of 210 knots. All told, five test aircraft will be used in the certification effort.

The Cessna SkyCourier will be offered in various configurations including a 6,000-pound (2722 Kg) payload capable freighter and a 19-seat passenger version, all based on the common platform. Designed for high utilisation, the Cessna SkyCourier is designed to deliver a combination of robust performance and lower operating costs. The aircraft features the popular Garmin G1000 NXi avionics’ suite and offers highlights such as a maximum cruise speed of up to 200 knots and a maximum range of 900 nm. The Cessna SkyCourier will include single-point pressure refuelling as standard to enable faster turnarounds.