Cessna receives EASA certification for Grand Caravan EX

Cessna Aircraft Company, part of the Textron Aviation segment of Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT), announced today it has received European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) type certification for the Grand Caravan EX aircraft, paving the way for deliveries to begin immediately. The Grand Caravan EX is part of the Textron Aviation static display at the European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE) May 20-22 in Geneva, Switzerland.

“The versatility and reliability of the Caravan is why it continues to be one of the most popular aircraft around the world with more than 2,200 delivered. In Europe, Cessna has delivered approximately 160 Caravans for roles as varied as commuter airlines, tourism, cargo missions and personal recreation,” said Christi Tannahill, senior vice president, Turboprop Aircraft. “That popularity has continued to grow with the Grand Caravan EX due to its improved performance in high and hot conditions found at higher altitudes and in warmer climates around the world.

”Cessna delivered its 100th Grand Caravan EX in April 2014. The Grand Caravan EX is flying diverse missions around the world, including airline operations in Russia, travel companies in the Hawaiian and the Caribbean islands, construction and energy companies in the United States, aid organizations on wildlife rescue missions in Africa and aviation clubs in the Middle East.

Powered by the Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-140 engine, the Grand Caravan EX boasts a 38 percent improvement over the rate of climb of the Grand Caravan, a 350-foot reduction in takeoff roll and a 10-12 knot cruise speed improvement on average.