Legacy Jets Finding New Life In A Difficult Market

Sierra Industries’ Williams FJ44 re-engining programs are rapidly approaching a total of 60 aircraft, with the input of two more legacy Citation aircraft for modification. Number 58 in the series is a Citation S550, slated to become the 12th aircraft fitted with 2820 lb. thrust FJ44-3A engines. No. 59 is a Citation I and boasts the Sierra Stallion FJ44-2A upgrade. Both aircraft are expected to be completed before the end of 2011, making them potential candidates for the U.S. Government’s 100% Bonus Depreciation tax allowance.

FJ44 Engine

“We’re gratified by the support for our Williams FJ44 re-engining programs in today’s challenging aviation market. This reinforces our belief that well-designed and carefully updated legacy aircraft continue to be a competitive and cost-effective alternative to new aircraft models. Sierra’s hard-won expertise in legacy aircraft modification is recognized by OEM firms like Hawker Beechcraft, resulting in contracted technology development for the newly approved 800XPR and upcoming 400XPR retrofit programs,” remarks SkyWay Group and Sierra CEO Mark Huffstutler.

Building on over 28 years of Citation modification history and 18 years of experience in Citation re-engining, Sierra’s re-engining lineup includes the highly successful FJ44-2A powered Eagle II, Stallion and the FJ44-3A powered Super II and Super S-II modifications. Supporting these modifications with their extensive in-house manufacturing capabilities, Sierra is among the largest holders of FAA Parts Manufacturing Approvals (PMA) in the southwestern US.

Many re-engined aircraft benefit from Williams’ renowned Total Assurance Program (TAP), the industry’s leading engine maintenance program for more than 13 years. Compared to the original JT15-D engines, the TAP program typically saves operators more than a quarter-million dollars in engine maintenance costs by the time TBO is reached.

The Williams powerplants also increase efficiency, reducing fuel consumption, cost and carbon emissions. Operators enjoy substantial performance improvements, from 35 to 50 knot cruise speed increases and 300 to 400 NM greater range to dramatically improved climb. All 4 models can achieve FL430 at gross weight in under 25 minutes from any airport in North America.

FMI: www.sijet.com