Will Be Available As A Standard Feature At Time Of Entry Into Service

Claiming that customer input was a part of the decision-making process, Textron is adding Emergency Autoland capability to its new Beechcraft Denali single-engine turboprop. The new feature is being implemented into the aircraft’s development and flight test program and will be available as a standard feature at time of entry into service.  

The Emergency Autoland system provides a means for the aircraft to land automatically in the unlikely event of pilot incapacitation. A passenger can activate the Emergency Autoland system by pressing a dedicated button in the cockpit. Once activated, the system immediately takes control of the aircraft and informs ATC of the emergency. It then calculates a flight path to the most suitable airport or runway, while avoiding terrain and adverse weather, initiates a stabilized approach and automatically lands the aircraft, bringing it to a stop before shutting down the engine. 

“The Autoland system is an excellent addition to the Beechcraft Denali and the G3000 avionics suite, and we’ve included it in the program as a direct response to continued conversations with our customers,” said Lannie O’Bannion, senior vice president, Sales & Flight Operations. “The feature makes the Denali even more desirable to a wider audience as it adds yet another element of assurance and peace of mind for pilots and passengers.” 

“We continue to experience great progress with the Denali development program, and we believe the aircraft will be a game changer in the single-engine, high-performance turboprop segment,” said Chris Hearne, senior vice president, Engineering. “Our customers are excited for the Emergency Autoland feature on the Denali and, while our goal is to achieve type certification as quickly as possible, it is of greatest importance to assure that every detail is completed with the highest quality.” 

The Denali flight test certification program features three flight test articles. The three flight test aircraft have surpassed 1,300 flight hours. 

Engineered to achieve cruise speeds of 285 knots and full fuel payload of 1,100 pounds, the Beechcraft Denali is designed to have a range of 1,600 nautical miles at high-speed cruise with one pilot and four passengers and will be able to fly from Los Angeles to Chicago, New York to Miami or London to Athens. The Catalyst engine – a more efficient, FADEC-equipped, 1,300 shaft horsepower (SHP)-rated turboprop engine – eases pilot workload via a single-lever power and propeller control. Like the company’s other aircraft, the Denali can also use sustainable aviation fuel. 

The airplane is also equipped with McCauley’s new 105-inch diameter composite, 5-blade, constant speed propeller, which is full feathering with reversible pitch and ice protection. 

FMI: www.txtav.com