First Flight Nears For Beechcraft Denali Textron Aviation announced that their brand Beechcraft, is nearing the first flight for the freshly renamed Beechcraft Denali (originally announced as the Cessna Denali). After successful ground engine tests the direction now moves towards preparation for the first flight of the new turboprop single. The ground engine runs, which took place at Textron Aviation’s west campus in Wichita, Kansas, verified the functionality of the fuel system and engine, as well as the interface with the avionics and electrical systems. By the end of the year, the Denali should see its first flight.
"These successful engine runs are a significant step toward the upcoming inaugural flight for the Beechcraft Denali, and they are a testament to the determination and collaboration from both the Textron Aviation and GE Aviation teams," said Chris Hearne, senior vice president, Engineering. "The Denali features a technologically advanced engine that burns less fuel. It has an intuitive avionics suite that eases pilot workload and boasts the most spacious cabin in its segment. We are excited to get this aircraft into the hands of our eager customers." The aircraft is powered by GE Aviation’s Catalyst engine which as accumulated 2,450 run hours to date. For more information: Cessna Aircraft Company 1 Cessna Blvd. Wichita, KS 67215 www.cessna.com ***
