Will Be On Display At Farnborough This Summer

The Scorpion AirLand tactical jet under development by Textron is getting some modifications this week that will allow it to fly to England for the Farnborough International Air Show this summer.

The changes being made had been planned all along, according to Dale Tutt, chief engineer on the project, but the timeline is being moved up to allow the airplane to make the 4,700 nm flight to England for the show. The Wichita Eagle reports that modifications to the aircraft began early in May.

Among the modifications being completed are an engine inlet ice protection system, "major" improvements in the environmental and electrical controls, and a cockpit ladder so that the flight crew can get in and out of the jet without the help of a ground crew.

The onboard oxygen generating system will also be activated.

Tutt said there is a lot of interest in the airplane from potential international customers, and they are "excited" to have the opportunity to see the airplane at Farnborough.

After the modifications are done, the Scorpion will head over to the Cessna paint shop to be gotten ready for the prom. It should be flying again June 1, Tutt said.

(Image from file)

FMI: www.scorpionjet.com