Raisbeck Engineering has obtained an STC for its EPIC drag reduction system for the Cessna 208B Caravan. 

Epic allows those operating a Caravan equipped with an underbelly cargo pod to reduce drag and increase cruise speeds, while reducing fuel burn. 

The 208B, for all its wonderful backcountry capability, is not a sleek bird, especially with its underslung locker being carried around, adding significant drag, wasting fuel and decreasing top speed. Raisbeck's drag reduction is done by using a composite Forward Cargo Pod Fairing and metal Dual Aft Body Strakes, leading to a more tapered nose section that flows smoothly into the cargo compartment. The suite only weighs 38 lbs in total, yet adds more than 5 knots to the plane's top speed. The added efficiency allows operators to stretch the legs of the aircraft just a little more between refuelings. In addition to the drag reduction, the Dual Aft Body Strakes provide significantly improved lateral stability.

“The Cessna Caravan aircraft is renowned for its rugged utility and adaptability to a wide variety of operations. EPIC Caravan will not only ease pilot workload, but also offer operators a more cost-effective, environmentally friendly way of flying,” stated Hal Chrisman, president of Raisbeck Engineering. “The new system provides operators the option to utilize faster cruise speeds or to reduce fuel flows with lower ITT. The STC also marks an important milestone for the company as we expand our product offerings in the business and general aviation market.”

FMI: www.raisbeck.com