Textron Aviation recently celebrated a key milestone for the Cessna SkyCourier – marking five years since the clean-sheet aircraft’s maiden flight on 17 May 2020. Designed as a twin-engine, high-wing utility turboprop, the SkyCourier has proven itself a capable performer across a variety of demanding roles worldwide.
Since its debut, the SkyCourier has gained a reputation for its reliability, ruggedness, and adaptability. With configurations tailored for either cargo or passenger transport, the aircraft has supported operations in challenging environments, including remote airfields with unimproved runways. It’s optional gravel and combi conversion kits further enhance mission flexibility.
The aircraft’s freighter variant accommodates up to three LD3 containers with a payload capability of 6,000 pounds. The 19-passenger version offers convenient boarding through dedicated crew and passenger doors, large windows, and single-point pressure refuelling for quick turnarounds.
Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-65SC engines and featuring McCauley’s C779 four-blade aluminium propellers, the SkyCourier combines power and efficiency. It cruises at over 200 KTAS and has a maximum range of 900 nautical miles, managed through a Garmin G1000 NXi avionics suite.
In line with growing global adoption, Textron Aviation is expanding its Wichita production flight test facilities, adding six new hangar bays to support increased demand. Certification milestones now span multiple countries, including the Bahamas, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, the Philippines, and Australia, among others.
With continued investment in production and enhancements, the Cessna SkyCourier stands out as a versatile and economical platform for freight, commuter, and special mission operations around the world.
