XR-Option Available For Re-engined Legacy Jets

When it comes to making a good thing even better, few are as ambitious as Sierra Industries, with its line of re-engining programs and other modifications for legacy Citation business jets. This week, the company told ANN things have been "kicked up a notch," with the announcement of the XR extended-range upgrades for the company's Williams FJ-44 re-engined Citations.

With the addition of the exclusive aft fuel tank modification, Citation I, II and S-II models gain an additional 120 gallons of fuel capacity. The extra fuel allows up to 60 minutes of additional cruise time and extends range by as much as 400 nautical miles.

The FAA-approved modification installs a double-walled aluminum fuel cell in front of the aft cabin bulkhead, minimizing changes to the aircraft’s center of gravity. The 120-gallon fuel cell is only 18 inches in depth, making the modified Citation I cabin virtually identical in size to a CJ1 and allowing ample room to retain a useable aft toilet. System installation includes adding a new pressure bulkhead, fuel lines and venting equipment, and aft cabin re-upholstering to match the original interior decor.

Sierra says its FJ44-powered aircraft are an ideal platform for the XR tank upgrade. The additional power and efficiency of the Williams engines make it possible to enjoy increased fuel capacity and extended range while still retaining substantial useful payload. According to the company, the Super II XR boasts a useable maximum fuel payload of nearly 500 lbs. -- more than the original Citation II without the additional fuel capacity.

The XR upgrade is available for Williams FJ44-powered Stallion and Super II modifications, adding $199,000 to the total cost. The full Stallion XR modification can be performed on any Citation 500 or 501SP aircraft, and includes two new Williams International FJ44-2A engines, 120 gallon aft cabin fuel cell, and all necessary hydraulic, mechanical and electrical changes. The modification can be done in as little as 10 weeks and is priced at $1,805,500.

In related news, Sierra says Super S-II XR testing is proceeding and FAA approval is expected shortly for S550 series aircraft. When combined with FJ44 re-engining, the XR upgrade adds approximately 2 weeks of installation time. The Super II XR modification is available for owners and operators of Cessna Citation 550 and 551SP aircraft, with a down time of 10-12 weeks for installation.

2008 MSRP for the complete Super II XR modification is $2.103 million (with trade-in credit for existing engines) and includes Williams FJ44-3A engines and installation, all associated structural changes to accommodate the increased thrust, all necessary hydraulic, mechanical and electrical changes and dual-channel FADEC for power management and full-time synchronizing between engines.

Other available Sierra options include upgraded avionics packages, new paint and interior treatments, extended-width cargo doors and more. For those without an existing Citation II for modification, complete turnkey Super II XR aircraft are also available for sale from Sierra.

FMI: www.sijet.com