Elliptical Design Expected To Expand Performance Envelope

Cessna and Winglet Technology LLC announced this week at NBAA 2007 the beginning of flight testing of Winglet Technology's patented Elliptical Winglet on the Citation X.

The flight test is in support of Winglet Technology's effort to obtain FAA and EASA supplemental type certificates (STC's) for its Elliptical Winglet. Cessna and Winglet Technology engineers expect higher weight/altitude/temperature limits allowing more flexibility when operating from hot/high airports, improved climb performance that allows higher initial cruise altitudes for some takeoff weights, higher maximum cruise speeds at high altitudes, and longer range for a given payload throughout the operating envelope.

Cessna notes that as it is still early in the program, no specific performance details are available. The STC for the Citation X is targeted for the second quarter of 2008.

NBAA show attendees can see the Winglet Technology winglets installed on a Citation X at the show's static aircraft park, and on a model at the Cessna exhibit.

Cessna announced in March it had joined with Wichita-based Winglet Technology to evaluate Citation applications for the Elliptical Winglet. Winglet Technology designs and markets its patented Elliptical Winglets for business jets and transport category aircraft.

FMI: www.cessna.com