Textron Aviation Expands Flight Test Facilities as SkyCourier Demand Increases

Textron Aviation has completed a major expansion of its flight test facilities at its East Wichita Campus, a move aimed at supporting growing global demand for the versatile Cessna SkyCourier and advancing development programmes across its turboprop aircraft portfolio.

The expansion adds 57,000 square feet to the existing flight test hangar complex, including six new hangar bays on the northern side of the facility. The additional capacity will primarily support flight test operations for the twin-engine Cessna SkyCourier, which continues to gain traction among cargo, passenger and special mission operators worldwide.

The enlarged facility will also play a key role in ongoing certification and entry-into-service activities for the highly anticipated Beechcraft Denali single-engine turboprop.

"As demand for the Cessna SkyCourier continues to grow across commercial, cargo and special missions markets, our facilities and teams must be positioned to support that momentum," said Lannie O'Bannion, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Textron Aviation. "By investing in additional flight test capacity, we are strengthening our ability to efficiently support development today and as demand continues to expand."

The investment reflects the success of the SkyCourier programme since the aircraft entered service. Designed as a modern utility aircraft, the SkyCourier has found favour with freight operators, regional passenger airlines and special mission customers thanks to its rugged design, large payload capability and low operating costs.

Textron has recently broadened the aircraft's appeal with enhancements such as an in-flight operable cargo door and the platform's expansion into defence and government applications. The aircraft has already secured its first military order from the Belgian Defence Force, signalling growing interest beyond the traditional commercial market.

According to Textron Aviation, the expanded hangar will enable flight test teams to conduct multiple test campaigns simultaneously while improving efficiency between aircraft preparation, flight evaluations and data analysis. "With more space and flexibility, our teams can run multiple test profiles in parallel and turn aircraft more efficiently," said Brad White, Senior Vice President of Manufacturing Operations. "That capability is critical as the SkyCourier supports a growing range of real-world missions for operators around the globe."

The project also incorporates energy-efficient design features, including LED lighting and high-efficiency building systems, helping reduce energy consumption while supporting demanding flight test activities.

The Cessna SkyCourier was developed to fill a gap in the market for a modern, purpose-built utility turboprop capable of serving both cargo and passenger operators. Offered in freighter and passenger variants, the aircraft can also be configured in a combi layout carrying up to nine passengers alongside freight.

The freighter version can accommodate up to three LD3 cargo containers and carry payloads of up to 6,000 pounds, making it particularly attractive to express freight and logistics operators. The passenger variant seats up to 19 passengers and features large windows and a spacious cabin designed for regional transport missions.

Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-65SC turboprop engines driving McCauley four-blade propellers, the SkyCourier offers a maximum cruise speed exceeding 200 knots and a range of approximately 900 nautical miles. The aircraft is equipped with Garmin G1000 NXi avionics and features single-point pressure refuelling to minimise turnaround times.

For operators in regions such as Africa, where rugged airstrips, demanding conditions and versatile mission requirements are commonplace, the SkyCourier's combination of payload, reliability and operating economy continues to position it as an increasingly attractive platform.