Metal Innovations Inc. Mod Receives Federal Nod

Metal Innovations Inc. (MII)—an FAA Authorized Part 145 Repair Station (KW7R756N), FAA Parts Manufacturing Authorization (PMA) facility, Supplemental Type Certificate Holder (STC), Textron Cessna and Beechcraft Service Center, and Daher Service Center located on northwest-Oregon’s Aurora State Airport (UAO)—announced on 22 March 2023 that it had received FAA supplemental type certification (STC) SA02763SE approval of its Cessna 208B Caravan cargo pod alteration.

Subject STC addresses the limitations of the OEM design’s fixed dividers—altering such to accommodate a flex-use configuration—and adds a rear ramp door. The addition of the aforementioned door and replacement of the cargo pod’s immobile OEM partitions with easily removable ones allows 208B owners to retain multiple compartments within the ventral or transform the entirety of its volume to a hitherto-unheard of end-to-end span of 13.5-inches high, by 32-inches wide, by 12-to-16-foot long. In addition, the STC affords safer, more efficient utilization of the 208B by shifting the transportation of long items such as full-dimensional lumber, skis, surfboards, and even kayaks from the aircraft’s passenger compartment to the expandable pod—thereby improving occupant safety and speeding emergency disembarkment.

Metal Innovations Inc. CEO Kim Wilmes stated: "The STC's removable dividers and addition of a rear door, provides operators better cargo hauling and loading efficiency. We are excited to offer customers a product that optimizes the transport of all types of cargo, especially the longer lengths associated with building supplies and recreational equipment.”

Metal Innovations Inc. COO Craig Wilmes added: "Our innovative alteration of the 208B cargo pod allows customers to transfer items only previously able to fit in the cabin to the Pod. We strive to develop solutions that improve aircraft use and increase revenues for operators, and this STC achieves both by freeing premium space for passengers and optimizing shipment configurations.”

Metal Innovations is currently booking both in-house and onsite cargo pod upgrade installation time-slots. Interested parties are invited to contact the company, which is currently offering fleet discounts.

In the years since its 1996 inception, MII has evolved into a recognized and respected aviation concern. The company provides annual and high-time inspections, maintenance, major and minor repairs, modifications, and innovative solutions across multiple aircraft platforms for domestic and international customers.

To completely and consistently honor its commitment to providing the very best aircraft services, MII’s factory-trained, highly-experienced aerospace professionals utilize the latest technologies, equipment, and processes to ensure on-time delivery and unmatched quality at competitive prices.

FMI: www.metalinnovations.com