Clean-Sheet Commuter Twin Proceeding to Market

Cessna's Utilitarian twin turboprop has gotten closer to open release after receiving type certification from the FAA. 

The new, clean-sheet design stands out from the rest of the Cessna portfolio, a notably fresh addition to a roster of planes that all too often date back decades. The SkyCourier, a little late following the global delays incurred during the disruptions of 2020 and beyond, is now proceeding along on its way to production and delivery. Cessna calls it a "load-leading, cost-crushing, revenue-generating, business tool," an aircraft with a payload capacity of 6,000 pounds, and a single-pilot flight deck.

So far, all evidence points to a well thought-out recipe aimed at small logistics operators looking to squeeze every last penny out of their cargo chain. The SkyCourier offers a tempting alternative to prospective buyers of Viking Air's Twin Otter, another twin-engine, turboprop with seating for 19 passengers. The Otter's payload, even on short 100 nm trips, is only 2/3rds the Cessna's at 4,061 pounds. Whether the new aircraft will kick off a turboprop commuter plane arms race remains to be seen, but from a short glance at the spec sheets, Viking is probably sketching out Twin Otter updates already.

Cessna's first customer, FedEx, will see 50 planes, with an option for 50 more should they appreciate the SkyCourier. Given the increasing size of the small parcel shipping market on e-commerce segment, it would seem the SkyCourier is poised for immediate popularity. Whether UPS or Amazon picks it up off the bat, or an array of smaller feeder operators decide to make the jump, the SkyCourier is really one of a small handful of new aircraft seen in its niche in years. 

“Achieving FAA certification for the Cessna SkyCourier demonstrates the expertise and hard work of our employees, as well as Textron Aviation’s continued investment in providing solutions for our customers,” said Ron Draper, CEO of Cessna's parent company, Textron Aviation. “Our clean-sheet design brings to this segment what customers said they need: the ability to load, fly, unload and repeat with low operating costs and maximum cabin flexibility and efficiency. We expect the SkyCourier to be a workhorse of the fleet for FedEx and many other customers around the globe for decades to come.”

FMI: www.cessna.txtav.com