Cessna Says Flight Test Program Moving Forward From Accident

Cessna reported this week at AOPA Expo 2008 it is on course to begin deliveries of the Model 162 SkyCatcher during the second half of 2009. This schedule matches the timeline announced when the light sport aircraft launched in July 2007.

All engineering work and testing of the 162 is being completed in Wichita, KS at Cessna Aircraft Field Airport adjacent to McConnell Air Force Base. The program has accumulated more than 220 hours for ASTM flight testing.

Since losing the prototype in a September flight test accident, as ANN reported, Cessna has moved the first production model to the primary flight test aircraft while another airframe is conducting ASTM static testing.

Flight testing is focused on gathering data and making minor refinements to ensure the aircraft complies with ASTM requirements and fulfills its intended role in the training and sport flying market. The primarily aluminum aircraft will meet ASTM standard F2245 for the light sport category.

An extensive Ground Vibration Test, though not an ASTM requirement, was conducted to meet Cessna's exacting standards for airframe integrity. Additional testing beyond the ASTM requirements will include a full airframe fatigue test on a production aircraft starting in mid-2009.

Production assembly jigs and tooling and detail tooling to support fabrication are complete and in place at Shenyang Aircraft Corporation. Cessna will ship the SkyCatcher's engine and avionics, along with raw materials, from the United States to Shenyang, China, for assembly by SAC. Cessna has on-site personnel in place to provide ongoing oversight for quality assurance.

The next major program milestone is scheduled for second quarter 2009, when SAC completes the first aircraft assembly followed by its first flight.

FMI: www.cessna.com