Textron Aviation announced yesterday that the Federal Aviation Administration had issued the type certificate for the new Cessna C408 SkyCourier.
Textron started the twin turbo-prop utility as a clean-sheet design in 2017, and was awarded the TC after 2100 hours in testing.
"Achieving FAA certification for the Cessna SkyCourier demonstrates the expertise and hard work of our employees, as well as Textron Aviation’s continued investment in providing solutions for our customers,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation.
“Our clean-sheet design brings to this segment what customers said they need: the ability to load, fly, unload and repeat with low operating costs and maximum cabin flexibility and efficiency.
"We expect the SkyCourier to be a workhorse of the fleet for FedEx and many other customers around the globe for decades to come.”
Launch customer FedEx has order 50 C408s in cargo configuration with an option for another 50.
The aircraft is also being offered in 19-seat passenger configuration.
SkyCourier production has been underway in Wichita, Kansas, since the production TC was issued earlier this year.
The C408 is powered by two Pratt & Whitney PT6A-65SC turbo-prop engines driving McCauley C779 propellers, The cockpit features Garmin G1000 NXi avionics and has a maximum cruise speed of more than 200 KTAS and a 900-nm maximum range. The cabin features a large door and a flat floor, and the freighter version can hold up to three LD3 shipping containers with 2700 kg of payload capability.
The first of type is expected to enter service with FedEx soon.