General Aviation First Cessna SkyCourier performs maiden flight

Cessna´s latest twin utility turboprop aircraft, the SkyCourier, has successfully performed its first flight. This achievement is a huge milestone for the company and a big step toward entry into service for the aircraft.

The first flight kicks off an important flight test program, in which all characteristics of the aircraft will be tested. This program ensures and validates performance and security of the SkyCourier aircraft.

Regarding the first flight, Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation said: “Today was an exciting day for our employees, our suppliers and our customers. The Cessna SkyCourier performed exactly as we expected, which is a testament to the entire team of men and women who worked together to prepare for this day [...] I’m proud of the way the team has persevered through disruptions caused by the COVID-19 global pandemic and remained focused on getting us to this point. The Cessna SkyCourier will be an excellent product in its segment due to its combination of cabin flexibility, payload capability, superior performance and low operating costs. Our customers will be very pleased with what they experience from this aircraft.”

For its first flight, the SkyCourier took off from the company´s Beech Field Airport, piloted by Corey Eckhart, senior test pilot, and Aaron Tobias, chief test pilot. The whole flight took two hours and 15 minutes. During this time, the crew tested the aircraft´s performance, stability and control. Furthermore, flight controls and avionics systems were checked.

“We were very pleased with how the Cessna SkyCourier performed throughout its first flight,” Corey Eckhart said. “It was particularly impressive to see how stable the aircraft handled on takeoff and landing. The Cessna SkyCourier already displays a high level of maturity in its flight characteristics, especially for a first flight. We were able to accomplish everything we wanted on this flight, and that’s an excellent start to the flight test program.”

Now, the prototype aircraft will continue to expand the flight tests in order to expand on performance goals. Five additional flight and ground test aircraft will be joining the manufacturer´s fleet soon.